A new exit and entry law stipulating harsher punishments for foreigners who illegally enter, live or work in China went into effect on Monday.

The new law, adopted by the National People's Congress Standing Committee in June 2012, rules that foreigners must obtain valid identification documents when working in the country, adding that they may not be employed without valid employment certificates.

Employers who violate the law will be fined 10,000 yuan ($1,631) per illegally hired foreigner with a maximum of 100,000 yuan, and any gains from such employment will also be confiscated.

Those who employ foreigners or enroll foreign students should report to local public security bureaus, while residents are encouraged to tip off the authorities about foreigners who may be illegally living or working in the country.

The law also includes a new "talent introduction" visa category intended to encourage high-caliber foreign talent to come.

Foreigners who illegally overstay will be given a warning before being fined, while in severe cases, they will be issued a fine of less than 10,000 yuan or detained for up to 15 days.

The minimum stay for foreigners holding work certificates has been shortened to 90 days, while the period of validity for residence certificates will now range from 180 days to five years.

Foreigners who commit "severe violations" that do not constitute crimes may be deported and not allowed to enter the country for 10 years.

Chinese nationals who have lived abroad, according to the law, can identify themselves by showing their passports when returning.

It used to be difficult for them to return for work, as they did not have Chinese resident identification cards with which to identify themselves.

China passed two laws concerning the exit and entry of Chinese citizens and foreigners in 1985.

Global Times - Agencies