Changing Chinese Migration Law: From Restriction to Relaxation

This paper offers new insights into Chinese migration law since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, set against a backdrop of briefly examined historical developments in international migration law. Despite significant changes during its years of reform and opening up—with the massive influx of foreigners into, and exodus of Chinese citizens from, China—Chinese migration law is still restrictive and unadvanced. As part of its reform and opening-up policies, China has been relaxing its control on persons crossing its border, and advancing its exit and entry administration. The paper also offers an exploration of fresh perspectives on Chinese migration law’s history, including insights into the comparative value—for Chinese migration law—of international migration law experiences.