👪 Family law
Anti-Domestic Violence Law of China (2016) · Yalla China
中华人民共和国反家庭暴力法 / Anti-Domestic Violence Law of China (2016)
Enacted: 2015-12-27 ✅ Effective: 2016-03-01
📝 Overview
China's first dedicated anti-domestic violence law, enabling judicial protection orders and obliging authorities to investigate reports, applicable to foreigners residing in China.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
The Anti-Domestic Violence Law (2016) includes: (1) an expanded definition of domestic violence covering physical and psychological abuse; (2) authority mandate to issue warning orders upon first report; (3) judicial protection order system issued by courts; (4) obligation of healthcare providers, teachers, and police stations to report. Penalties: administrative detention or criminal prosecution depending on violence severity. For foreigners residing in China: full right to protection under this law.
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
The law allows obtaining judicial protection even before filing for divorce. Foreign victims can contact their embassy for additional support.
📎 Official source
National People's Congress Standing Committee
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026