The current ban on entry into the People‘s Republic of China due to the COVID-19 epidemic and resulting problems in the context of employment

Abstract

In order to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the People’s Republic of China has imposed an entry ban as of 28 March 2020 which considerably restricts the entry of foreigners. Visas and residence permits valid at the time of the entry ban’s coming into force cannot be used to enter the country until further notice, and new visas will only be issued for certain necessary activities. Such an entry ban announced at short notice is a considerable encroachment on personal freedom and poses unexpected challenges for individuals, especially in the context of employment. This essay places the entry ban in its legal context and attempts to provide a rough first assessment.