Canadian governments tells visitors to China to exercise caution

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Events in China have caused the Canadian government to issue an updated travel advice for citizens entering that country. Here’s what to know about the changes and the precautionary measures to take.

What was the reason for the update?

China’s embassy in Ottawa revealed this month that Beijing executed 4 Canadian citizens this year.

“The facts of the crimes committed by the Canadian nationals involved in the cases are clear, and the evidence is solid and sufficient,” the embassy said in a media statement. It not provide the names of the executed Canadians or the specific crimes they were alleged to have committed.

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While the government’s travel advisory does not mention this event specifically, it does note: “In China, you may also be subject to severe punishments, even for non-violent acts such as financial crimes. Chinese authorities may also apply the death penalty for crimes deemed serious, including drug offences.”

What has changed about entering China?

While the rules of entry remain the same, the Canadian government recommends visitors to China “exercise a high degree of caution.” This is one level below “avoid non-essential travel” and two below “avoid all travel.” The lowest alert level is “take normal security precautions.”

The advisory notes “the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws,” adding: “Our ability to provide consular assistance in China is limited due to the level of transparency in China’s judicial system. It may also impact your ability to obtain effective legal assistance.”

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It also warns travellers of so-called exit bans, “which you may only learn about as you go through customs and immigration controls when trying to leave China. An exit ban may prevent you from leaving the country if you, your family or your employer and/or business associates are involved in any open civil or criminal investigations, including business disputes.”

Does it help to be a dual national?

Unlike most countries including the United States, China does not recognize dual citizenship for any Chinese national, so the Canadian government says any dual nationals “should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to Chinese authorities.”

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly recently noted that all four of the recently executed Canadian nationals were dual citizens and, according to Chinese authorities, were facing charges linked to drugs and criminal activities.

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“We strongly condemn the executions,” Joly told reporters in Ottawa. “I asked personally for leniency … They were all dual citizens.”

Should I be concerned about the advisory?

Yes. In addition to the recent executions, the CBC has said that China is holding about 100 Canadians in detention, though not all are as high-profile as “the two Michaels,” Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, who were released in 2021. It says Global Affairs Canada has confirmed that number.

What precautions should one take before travelling?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry into China. The Canadian government notes that, while it issues passports with an “X” gender identifier — defined as “another gender,” neither male nor female, they may not be recognized by other countries.

Visitors to China also require a tourist, business, student or working visa.

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“Ensure that you apply for the proper type of visa for the specific purpose of your trip,” the Canadian government website says, adding: “Pay particular attention to the length of stay permitted after each entry on your Chinese visa. Overstaying can lead to fines and administrative detention.” It strongly recommends obtaining a visa before travelling.

Be aware that Chinese border officials may review the content stored or consulted on your electronic devices, particularly at border crossings between mainland China and Hong Kong.

The Canadian government maintains a searchable list of foreign representatives in Canada, who may be able to offer advice on entry to their country.

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