The world is watching as tensions rise between Beijing and Washington — and that tension is now showing up in travel advisories. 

In April 2025, China issued a China-US travel study warning, urging its citizens to be cautious when going to the United States, including for tourism or educational purposes. 

If you're a student, scholar, or traveler thinking about the US, you’ll want to understand what’s new, what’s at risk, and how to protect yourself.

Quick Takeaways 💡:

• On April 9, 2025, China issued an advisory telling citizens to assess risks when traveling to the US, citing deteriorating relations and domestic safety concerns in the US.
• The advisory covered tourists and students, echoing earlier warnings about questioning at ports of entry and campus scrutiny.
• On May 28–29, 2025, US officials signaled visa revocations for some Chinese students in “critical fields,” prompting a formal protest from China’s Embassy in Washington.
• Expect tighter screening, possible secondary inspections, and policy shifts through 2025. Keep your documents, contacts, and travel plans organized.

Why Did China Issue This Warning?

The advisory comes amid a complicated backdrop of issues:

• Trade Tensions and Tariffs: The US and China have raised tariffs on each other’s goods, straining economic relations.
• Security Concerns: The US government has expressed concerns about espionage and intellectual property theft, leading to more invasive border checks and increased scrutiny of visas for Chinese nationals.
• New US Visa Rules: The US has tightened its rules for Chinese students, especially those in sensitive research fields, making visa applications and renewals more challenging.
• Reports of Discrimination: Chinese travelers and students report facing increased inspections, questioning, and sometimes outright denial of entry.

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What Does the Advisory Specifically Say?

Chinese official bodies like the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Ministry of Education advise their citizens:

• To “fully assess risks” before traveling or studying in the US.
• To be prepared for extra security checks and possible delays during travel processes.
• For students, to consider safety and legal challenges carefully before applying to American institutions, especially in states with stricter laws regarding Chinese partnerships.

Risks Faced by Chinese Tourists and Students in the US

For Chinese Tourists

• Uncertain Security Environment: Travelers may face longer TSA lines, additional questioning, and invasive security screenings.
• Visa Delays or Denials: Processing times have increased, and some visa applications have been delayed or denied due to policy changes.
• Travel Cancellations: Tourism to the US from China has decreased significantly in 2025 due to these uncertainties and warnings.
• Potential Travel Disruptions: Changes in US policies may affect entry requirements unexpectedly.

For Chinese Students

• Visa Scrutiny: Students studying certain "sensitive" STEM or technology fields face tighter visa reviews and more frequent revocations.
• University Partnerships: Some US states have banned or limited collaborations with Chinese universities, affecting research and exchange programs.
• Risk of Discrimination: Students report tech surveillance fears, racial profiling, and challenges finding post-study employment.
• Uncertain Immigration Future: Even after graduation, securing visa renewals and work permits becomes more challenging.

What Should Chinese Citizens Do Before Traveling or Studying in the US?

For Prospective Students

• Understand Visa Requirements: Stay informed on latest US policies affecting student visas, and prepare all documents carefully.
• Research Universities: Look for schools that maintain strong relations with Chinese institutions or adopt neutral policies.
• Plan for Delays: Account for possible visa processing delays or additional questions during travel.
• Seek Legal Help: Consult immigration and legal experts, such as Choi & Partners, for tailored guidance and help with applications.

For Tourists

• Check China’s Official Advisory: Read all risk warnings and travel updates before planning your trip.
• Prepare for Security Checks: Keep necessary paperwork ready and be mentally prepared for possible delays or security questions.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Opt for flexible bookings and insurance that covers unexpected cancellations or travel restrictions.
• Stay Informed: Monitor US-China diplomatic news and travel regulations regularly.

👉 Read Related Article: China Visa-Free Travel: 2025 Guide to Enter China w/o a Visa

Already in the U.S.? What You Should Do

If you’re enrolled or doing research in the U.S. and worried about changes, here are key steps:

• Keep your I-20 / DS-2019 status current and valid.
• Stay in touch with your school’s international student office (OISS / DSO).
• Subscribe to email alerts or legal notices about visa changes.
• Document your research plans, funding sources, and academic progress.
• Avoid nonessential international travel during policy volatility periods.
• If you plan to reenter the U.S., carry a folder with transcripts, proof of funding, and letters of purpose.

Universities are already responding with guidance and contingency planning. Some have legal clinics to help students facing visa issues.

👉 Read Related Article: China Exit Ban: Who’s Affected & What to Do

Final Thoughts

The increased tensions between China and the US have turned what used to be routine travel and study decisions into complex, high-risk choices. 

If you are a prospective student or traveler, it is crucial to:

• Stay informed about policy changes with reliable sources
• Prepare all documentation meticulously
• Allow plenty of time for visa applications and travel plans
• Seek legal advice from experienced professionals like Choi & Partners to avoid pitfalls

Remember, knowledge and preparation are your most valuable tools for navigating the challenges of traveling and studying in the US in 2025.

👉 For personalized legal advice or help with visas, travel documentation, or study permits, please contact Choi & Partners. They specialize in navigating the complex rules governing travel and immigration between China and the US.

FAQs About “China US Travel Study Warning”

Has China issued a risk alert for citizens traveling to the US?

Yes. In April 2025, China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism issued a risk alert to Chinese tourists planning trips to the United States, citing rising tensions, safety concerns, and cases of detention or questioning. At the same time, the Ministry of Education warned Chinese students to assess the risks associated with studying in certain U.S. states. 

Is it safe to travel from the US to China right now?

Traveling to China carries some risks, especially for U.S. citizens, due to unpredictable law enforcement and potential restrictions, such as exit bans. The U.S. State Department currently advises to “exercise increased caution” when visiting mainland China. Also, relations between the two countries remain tense, and travelers should stay aware of changing policies.

When did China issue a strong warning to its students in the US?

China issues strong warnings to its students when it perceives legal, security, or diplomatic threats in the U.S. For instance, in April 2025, Beijing warned students after a state law in Ohio targeted academic cooperation with Chinese institutions. The warning urged students to assess risks, especially in “sensitive states,” and flagged concerns over visa restrictions or harassment.

Is it safe for Chinese citizens to travel to the U.S. in 2025?

It depends. The Chinese advisory says to “assess risks” and “travel with caution.” Some people report extra border scrutiny and device checks. Be prepared with documents and a clear purpose.

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