China

Visa required

ASIA-PACIFIC

Felon entry rules

VISA REQUIRED — U.S. citizens must obtain a visa (tourist L-visa or business M-visa). Visa-free agreements for short stays announced in 2024 — verify current terms.
Exit and Entry Administration Law of the PRC (2012), Art. 21: Denial authorized for persons convicted of terrorism, smuggling, drug trafficking, prostitution/solicitation, bestiality, or "other serious crimes."
Visa application asks directly: "Have you ever been convicted of any crime?" Disclosure of yes requires full details; case-by-case review.
Providing false information on the application is a serious offense. Minor/older non-violent convictions may be approved.
Recent, serious, drug, or sex crime convictions are more likely to trigger denial.
Note: random drug testing at entry; testing positive is a crime under Chinese law regardless of where consumption occurred.

"Prostitution" and "other serious crimes" under Art. 21 encompass sexual offences, including those involving minors.
RSOs face significant denial risk under Chinese visa review.
Passport identifier will be seen by Chinese visa officers.
IML notifications transmitted.
(verify with embassy before travel)

21-day advance notice applies for covered registered persons.

Yes — 21-day advance notice (IML, 34 U.S.C. § 20914).

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