Crypto world individuals suddenly encounter exit restrictions? In-depth analysis of reasons, inquiry methods, and coping strategies

Recently, a crypto world practitioner received a late-night call from a friend asking for help, stating that he suddenly could not leave the country and was worried about potential legal risks due to some gray operations in his previous business. This situation is not an isolated case; it is not uncommon for people in the crypto world to encounter exit restrictions. This article will explore in detail what exit restrictions are, why people in the crypto world may face such situations, and how to respond if encountered.

Definition of Exit Restrictions

Exit restrictions refer to the exit and entry control implemented by the national immigration authorities based on decisions made by relevant departments, in accordance with the law. This specifically includes two forms: prohibition of exit and prohibition of entry, professionally termed "exit restrictions."

This measure has a long history, dating back to the notice jointly issued by relevant departments in 1990. In 1998, the Ministry of Public Security clarified the concept and implementation methods of "border control measures" in relevant regulations.

Currently, exit restrictions, as a temporary regulatory measure, are dispersed across multiple laws, judicial interpretations, and normative documents, including the Exit and Entry Administration Law, the Tax Collection and Administration Law, the Civil Procedure Law, the Criminal Procedure Law, the Supervision Law, and other relevant administrative regulations and departmental rules.

Reasons for Crypto World Individuals Facing Exit Restrictions

According to the Exit and Entry Administration Law, Chinese citizens may be restricted from leaving the country under the following circumstances:

1. Not holding a valid certificate or refusing to accept border inspection
2. Serving a sentence or involved in a criminal case
3. There are unresolved civil cases, and the court has decided to restrict exit.
4. Penalty for violating immigration management regulations.
5. May endanger national security and interests
6. Other circumstances prescribed by law

In practice, there are mainly four reasons why people in the crypto world encounter exit restrictions:

1. Listed as a suspect in an important criminal case
2. Restricted from leaving the country by the court due to civil disputes.
3. Involving special cases, such as cases investigated by the Supervisory Commission.
4. Listed on the "sensitive personnel" list

It is noteworthy that outbound restrictions do not necessarily mean that a criminal case has been filed. Sometimes it may be due to non-compliant operations abroad or being listed as "sensitive personnel". However, considering the current regulatory stance on crypto asset trading, individuals in the crypto world still need to remain vigilant.

How to check if you are restricted from leaving the country

1. For situations that may involve civil disputes:

   • You can check the Information Disclosure Network in China.
   • Communicate with the executing judge through a lawyer

2. For situations with uncertain reasons:

   • Check the document status through the National Immigration Administration's government service platform.
   • Consult on-site at the entry and exit administration department
   • Try to buy an outbound flight ticket to test if you can pass through customs.

Coping Strategies for Encountering Exit Restrictions

1. Restrictions caused by civil disputes:

   • Entrust a lawyer to handle and fulfill related debts

2. Involving criminal cases or special cases:

   • Hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible
   • Communicate with judicial authorities
   • Arrange family affairs

3. Listed on the "sensitive personnel" list:

   • Identify the specific responsible authority
   • Communicate with relevant departments
   • Provide supporting documents, such as household registration information, bank statements, immigration records, etc.

Conclusion

With recent regulatory agencies strengthening scrutiny over crypto asset trading, practitioners in the crypto world need to be particularly cautious. If you find yourself restricted from leaving the country, it is essential to quickly assess the risks and seek professional legal assistance if necessary. In the current regulatory environment, operating in compliance and staying away from gray areas is crucial.