Law on Management of Overseas NGO Activities in China · Yalla China
中华人民共和国境外非政府组织境内活动管理法 / Law on the Management of Overseas NGO Activities in China
Enacted: 2016-04-28 ✅ Effective: 2017-01-01
📝 Overview
Requires overseas NGOs operating in China to register with the Ministry of Public Security and strictly defines permitted activities.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
The Overseas NGO Management Law (2017) requires: (1) every foreign NGO operating in China to register with the Ministry of Public Security; (2) working in partnership with an approved Chinese sponsor unit; (3) disclosure of funding sources; (4) prior approval for each activity. Foreign NGOs are prohibited from: directly recruiting members in China, directly communicating with the public without prior approval. Violations: fines, closure, and deportation of foreign responsible persons.
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
Those working in overseas NGOs in China must ensure their organizations are registered and compliant before starting any activity.
📎 Official source
National People's Congress Standing Committee
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026