China expands passport and exit controls for citizens

Reports indicate that China is expanding its passport and exit controls, potentially affecting a broader range of citizens beyond government officials. Online discussions and eyewitness accounts suggest that various sectors—including research institutes, state-owned enterprises, financial firms, educators, and medical staff—are being required to surrender their travel documents.

In some regions, community-level administrators have reportedly inquired about passport safekeeping, and certain ethnic groups have faced historical confiscation of documents. Additionally, some individuals have reported being barred from obtaining passports due to perceived security threats.

These developments coincide with upcoming exit and entry regulations scheduled for September 15. Under these new rules, citizens deemed a risk to industrial or technological security may be prohibited from leaving the country. Furthermore, returning overseas Chinese could face exit restrictions lasting between six months and three years if they are determined to pose a threat to national security.