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
First 24 hours
- ☐ Identify legal family: civil enforcement vs criminal vs exit-entry only
- ☐ Collect passport biographic page, visas, residence permit, company title docs
- ☐ Secure case numbers, police station name, court name, officer contacts
- ☐ Engage local counsel; set a single HQ communications owner
- ☐ Consular contact where appropriate
- ☐ Do not destroy phones, WeChat chats, or accounting files
Exit restriction specific
- ☐ Obtain written basis for the restriction
- ☐ Map judgment debt / underlying dispute quantum
- ☐ Freeze impulsive travel rebooking
- ☐ Settlement / security options memo
Criminal / DUI / drugs specific
- ☐ Counsel before substantive interviews where rights allow
- ☐ Medical / prescription file if relevant
- ☐ Employer notification protocol
- ☐ Work permit implications owner assigned
Company control parallel track
- ☐ Chop and bank U-key status confirmed
- ☐ Interim signing authority if legal rep incapacitated
- ☐ Public messaging approved by counsel (usually: minimal)
Hubs: Director risk · WFOE operations.
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.