Chinese Citizens Told to Surrender Passports Local Chinese authorities are increasingly restricting foreign travel by confiscating passports from citizens. This control, initially applied to public servants, has recently extended to Catholic clergy and other private individuals. Residents report that police or subdistrict officials are demanding temporary custody of passports without legal basis or return timelines.

• Local authorities in China are tightening control over citizens’ foreign travel.
• Passports are being confiscated from Chinese residents.
• Restrictions have expanded from public servants to Catholic clergy and other private citizens.
• Police or subdistrict officials are demanding temporary custody of passports.
• There is no clear legal basis or return date provided for confiscated passports.