China Enforces Stricter Visa and Entry Regulations Starting September 15

China is set to implement comprehensive changes to its immigration policies with the introduction of new Exit and Entry Administration regulations, effective from September 15, 2026. These changes, formalised under State Council Decree No. 841, aim to strengthen oversight of foreign nationals entering, residing, or working in the country.

Expanded Verification and Penalties

The updated rules grant immigration authorities enhanced powers to verify identities, assess travel purposes, and investigate visa applications more thoroughly. Applicants must provide truthful and lawful reasons for entry, stay, or residence.

• Foreigners submitting false documents or statements risk being barred from China for one to five years.
• Those penalised for border management violations face similar entry bans.
• Individuals providing fraudulent invitation letters or support documents may be fined between 5,000 and 10,000 yuan.
• Organisations involved in such violations face fines up to 50,000 yuan, confiscation of illegal gains, and penalties for responsible personnel.

Regulation of Immigration Service Agencies

The regulations introduce a registration system for immigration intermediaries, including visa consultants and document processors. Existing agencies must register within 90 days after the rules come into effect.

• Agencies are prohibited from misleading advertising, aiding fraudulent document acquisition, leaking client data, or facilitating illegal cross-border activities.
• Foreign businesses are barred from offering immigration services within China.
• Violations may lead to fines, suspension, or license revocation, with severe penalties for illegal profits exceeding 20,000 yuan.

Implications for Employers and Travellers

Multinational companies sponsoring foreign workers in China should anticipate stricter scrutiny of supporting documents such as invitation letters and work permits. Additional information may be requested during visa or residence permit processing.

The new rules also formalise a travel risk warning system, allowing authorities to issue alerts on destinations affected by conflict, crime, natural disasters, or epidemics. Chinese citizens may be advised against travel to high-risk areas.

Visa Application Details for Kenyan Nationals

Kenyans can apply for 16 categories of Chinese visas through the China Visa Application Service Centre in Nairobi. Visa fees vary by type and processing speed, ranging from approximately KSh 7,358 to KSh 19,674.

Applications can be submitted in person or online, with payments accepted via M-Pesa, Visa, or Mastercard.