Key practical points:
• It is the top-level law under which the detailed visa and residence regulations are issued.
• A foreigner must hold a passport and a valid visa or residence permit and present it when the police ask.
• It requires accommodation registration and reporting any change of address or employer.
• It gives immigration authorities powers of detention, deportation and refusal of entry for violations.
• Illegal work, stay or entry can lead to fines, detention, deportation and a re-entry ban.
🛂 Visa & residence
Exit and Entry Administration Law · Yalla China
中华人民共和国出境入境管理法 / Exit and Entry Administration Law
Enacted: 2012-06-30 ✅ Effective: 2013-07-01
📝 Overview
The primary law governing entry and exit of both foreigners and citizens, setting out visas, residence, border inspection and violations.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
For you this is the 'constitution' of your legal stay in China. The golden rule: always keep your visa or residence permit valid, register your accommodation, and report any change. A breach here is not just a fine; it can end your stay. This is general orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
npc.gov.cn / National Immigration Administration
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026