Passport Falling Apart? Foreigner’s DIY Fix Backfires Big Time

Source: OT-Team(G), 国家移民管理局

When rain ruined his passport, a foreign visitor tried a DIY repair—but immigration officers quickly spotted the problem.

Recently, at an entry inspection hall in Guangxi, a foreign traveler, identified as Mr. D (pseudonym), was spotted holding a damp travel document. He repeatedly pinched the binding seam, ready to demonstrate what he called his "emergency fix" to immigration officers.

Upon receiving the document, immigration officers immediately noticed irregularities: two black stitches protruded from the binding, with crooked pinholes between the cover and back, showing clear signs of a "DIY repair."

"The thread looks unusual. Care to explain?" asked one officer.

"The rain soaked my document, and I was afraid it might fall apart, so I stitched it with black thread," Mr. D replied. "The dark cover hides the thread well!" he added.

However, when the officers examined the document under the light, they found obvious water damage and smudged entry stamps across multiple visa pages. Beneath the black thread lay another line of stitching of a different color—cut and re-sewn with precision. The evidence was clear: the document had been tampered with. Officers reminded him that binding threads in entry-exit documents carry anti-counterfeiting features and must not be altered. Mr. D was penalized in accordance with the law.

Authorities warn:

The integrity and authenticity of travel documents are protected by law. Altering, cutting, or modifying them—whether "for convenience" or as a "souvenir"—is strictly prohibited. Tampered documents not only disrupt travel but also carry legal consequences. Compliance with the law ensures smooth and worry-free journeys.

Legal reference (Article 71):

Anyone found engaging in the following acts is subject to a fine of RMB 1,000–5,000. In serious cases, offenders may face 5–10 days of detention and an additional fine of RMB 2,000–10,000:

(1)Using forged, altered, or fraudulently obtained travel documents to enter or exit the country;

(2)Using another person's travel documents to enter or exit;

(3)Evading border inspection when entering or exiting;

(4)Engaging in other unlawful methods of crossing the border.