Overview
- China’s foreign ministry issued the advisory Thursday, telling citizens to steer clear of Seattle‑Tacoma International Airport after reports that about 20 scholars with valid visas were questioned and denied entry.
- The ministry described the checks as “malicious” and “unreasonable” and urged travelers to study U.S. entry rules, prepare documents, and respond calmly if officers question them.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection did not respond to media requests for comment on the reported denials, which involved scholars headed to academic conferences.
- The notice comes weeks before a planned mid‑May visit to Beijing by President Donald Trump, a timing noted in coverage as relations face new strain.
- The Port of Seattle said CBP alone controls who is admitted at the airport, and the region’s large Chinese community and university links make the reported turn-backs especially concerning for visitors and hosts.