What Restrictions Exist in China for Visitors and Residents?

China maintains a comprehensive system of regulations affecting daily life, business, and expression:

1. Internet Controls (Great Firewall): Blocks Google, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Western news, VPNs (unauthorized). Domestic alternatives: WeChat, Weibo, Baidu, Bilibili, Douyin.
2. Speech & Expression: Laws prohibit "subversion," "separatism," "terrorism," "fake news." Criticism of CCP, leaders, policies censored/punished. Foreigners also subject.
3. Religion: 5 state-sanctioned bodies (Buddhist, Taoist, Islamic, Protestant, Catholic). Unregistered "house churches" suppressed. Xinjiang: severe restrictions on Islam. Falun Gong banned.
4. Assembly & Association: Protests require police approval (rarely granted). NGOs must register; foreign NGOs under strict management law.
5. Travel & Residency: Hukou system ties services to birthplace. Exit bans for disputes, security. Xinjiang/Tibet: permits required. COVID controls (recent).
6. Education: Patriotic curriculum mandatory. Xinjiang/Tibet: boarding schools, language replacement. Foreign curricula restricted.
7. Data & Tech: PIPL, DSL, CSL laws: data localization, security reviews, algorithm regulation. Corporate compliance complex.
8. Business: Negative List (restricted sectors), joint venture requirements, IP risks, audit/transfer pricing scrutiny.

Enforcement varies by region, sector, political climate. Foreigners get some latitude but no immunity. Consult embassy/legal counsel for specific situations.