The United States has warned China of potential travel restrictions if Beijing does not step up efforts to repatriate its nationals residing illegally in the U.S., escalating tensions ahead of President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to Beijing.
Washington
According to a senior official from the Trump administration, China has recently slowed its cooperation in accepting deported nationals, prompting Washington to consider stricter measures. These could include increased visa restrictions, higher financial bonds for visa applicants, and tighter border controls affecting Chinese citizens seeking entry into the United States.
The warning comes just days before Trump’s planned May 14–15 visit to Beijing, where he is expected to raise the deportation issue directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit is viewed as strategically significant, with Trump also aiming to secure trade concessions that could strengthen his position ahead of upcoming midterm elections.
Since returning to office, Trump has made immigration enforcement a central pillar of his administration, frequently threatening tariffs and sanctions against countries that do not cooperate in accepting deportees. The issue of repatriation has remained a longstanding point of contention between Washington and Beijing.
China has historically resisted U.S. requests to take back large numbers of its nationals who have overstayed visas or entered the country illegally. While Beijing had earlier indicated a willingness to accept confirmed Chinese nationals after verification, it has maintained that the process is complex and time-consuming.
U.S. officials noted that China accepted around 3,000 deportees through charter and commercial flights in early 2025. However, cooperation has reportedly declined over the past six months, raising concerns within the administration.
The senior official described China’s stance as a failure to meet its international obligations, warning that continued inaction could have broader consequences. Inaction by the Chinese government will jeopardize future travel for law-abiding Chinese citizens, the official stated, signaling the potential impact on ordinary travelers.
As diplomatic engagement continues, the deportation issue is expected to feature prominently in discussions between the two leaders, alongside trade and broader bilateral relations.
