Crisis information — not a promise of outcome. Exit bans, consumption restrictions, criminal investigations, administrative detention, and deportation are highly fact-specific. This guide does not create an attorney–client relationship and is not a substitute for immediate local counsel if you cannot travel, have been contacted by police, or face a positive drug test. Do not destroy evidence or coach witnesses.
Foreign director risk cluster: Hub · Exit ban · Consumption limits · Drug tests · DUI · Personal liability · Primary sources · Checklist
Edge map
| Edge | Examples |
|---|---|
| Contractual | Personal guarantees to landlords, banks, suppliers |
| Corporate status | Legal representative named in administrative penalties; chop fights |
| Labour | Wage arrears narratives targeting responsible persons in some disputes |
| Tax / invoice | False invoicing and tax offences—criminal edges |
| Safety / environment | Serious accidents with duty-holder analysis |
| Enforcement | Exit and consumption restrictions linked to unperformed judgments |
Risk reduction for HQ
- Avoid casual personal guarantees “to get the deal done.”
- Separate legal rep role from unchecked chop custody (chop SOP).
- Keep board minutes when rejecting illegal instructions.
- Buy appropriate D&O / local liability insurance—but treat it as residual, not a licence to improvise.
- Train expats on DUI/drugs red lines (this cluster).
When personal risk becomes a travel risk
Jump to exit ban and consumption restriction. Corporate settlement strategy must include the human who cannot board the plane.
Legal basis & authorities
- Company Law — directors’ duties and legal representative
- Civil enforcement measures
- Criminal Law — relevant white-collar and duty offences as fact patterns arise
Use primary sources when police, courts, or borders cite article numbers.
Facing travel restriction or criminal exposure in China?
Browse Criminal Defense lawyers · civil enforcement counsel via Ask a Lawyer · and notify your embassy/consulate where appropriate. Bring passport, company role docs, and any court/police papers.