U.S. Enforces Ban on Relationships Between Staff in China and Chinese Citizens

The directive, introduced in January by former Ambassador Nicholas Burns, reflects growing espionage concerns and intensifying U.S.-China tensions.

The U.S. government has prohibited all romantic or sexual relationships between its personnel in China and Chinese citizens, including diplomats, family members, and contractors with security clearances.
The policy, implemented in January 2025, expands on a 2024 directive that limited such restrictions to Chinese citizens employed as support staff or guards at U.S. diplomatic facilities.
Violators face immediate expulsion from China, while personnel in pre-existing relationships must apply for exemptions or end the relationship if denied.
The directive, communicated internally and not publicly announced, cites concerns over espionage tactics such as 'honeypot' operations by Chinese intelligence.
Similar restrictions exist within China's government, which bars its personnel from romantic involvement with foreign nationals to mitigate security risks.