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
If you cannot leave China or police have contacted you: prioritise local counsel and accurate facts over forum advice. See exit ban or criminal spokes immediately.
Risk map
| Situation | Guide |
|---|---|
| Border stop / told you cannot exit | Exit ban removal paths |
| Court limits luxury spend / high consumption | Consumption restriction |
| Positive drug screen (urine/hair) | Drug tests & deportation |
| Drink-driving stop | DUI laws for foreigners |
| Company dispute + personal naming | Personal liability · WFOE control hub |
Action guides
HQ playbook (before a crisis)
- Know who is legal representative and who holds chops (chop SOP).
- Keep judgment and arbitration exposure dashboards for China entities.
- Brief rotating expats on drug and DUI zero-tolerance culture—not as moralism, as travel risk.
- Pre-select criminal and disputes counsel in your main city.
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.