China to Tighten Entry and Exit Controls Next Month, Including Mobile Phone Checks
China will tighten its entry and exit regulations starting 15 September 2026. The policy includes stricter travel applications, identity checks, travel restrictions for Chinese citizens, and the potential request for electronic data.
The regulation is outlined in the Regulation on Exit and Entry Administration issued by the State Council of China. This regulation was signed by Chinese Premier Li Qiang in July 2026 and is scheduled to take effect on 15 September.
According to the Straits Times, one of the key provisions requires applicants to provide true and legally valid purposes when applying to enter or exit China, or to reside and settle in the country.
During the inspection process, immigration and visa authorities may request additional information from applicants, as well as documents, supporting materials, or electronic data to verify identity and travel purposes. The use of false documents or information may lead to the rejection of travel document or entry/exit permit applications.
These rules do not imply that all tourists will have their mobile phones randomly inspected; rather, immigration authorities may request electronic data under certain circumstances to verify identity or travel purposes.
Foreign nationals face the threat of entry bans. Foreigners who provide false documents or information when applying for a visa abroad or when entering China through border checks may be banned from entry for one to five years.
Similar sanctions may apply to foreigners who have received criminal penalties for offences that obstruct border administration. Foreigners who receive administrative sanctions for obtaining travel documents illegally or for illegal entry and exit may also be subject to entry bans during that period.
The regulation also places responsibility on individuals and organisations that issue invitation letters or application documents for foreigners. The accuracy of the information in such documents must be accountable.
Issuers of false invitation or application documents may face fines. Individuals may be fined between 5,000 and 10,000 yuan, while organisations may be fined between 10,000 and 50,000 yuan. Illegal income obtained from such activities may also be confiscated, and responsible managers or staff may face additional sanctions.
While the rules grant authorities the power to request electronic data during the verification process, the new regulation does not mandate random and thorough mobile phone inspections for all tourists or travellers.
The provisions state that electronic data may be requested when necessary to verify identity or travel purposes. However, there is no provision stating that every traveller’s phone will be inspected or that specific types of content on a device will automatically serve as grounds for inspection.
Consequently, the implementation of these new rules should not be interpreted as a requirement for all tourists to undergo routine mobile phone inspections.