Warning for Chinese Citizens in Madagascar Regarding Transnational Marriage and Illegal Activities

On March 12, a message was released stating that recently, the public security department of Madagascar cracked a transnational marriage-related human trafficking case, and several Chinese citizens involved were arrested. The relevant embassy in Madagascar safeguarded the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens in accordance with laws and regulations. At the same time, it firmly opposed all illegal and criminal acts and supported the Malagasy law - enforcement departments in cracking down on relevant illegal and criminal activities in accordance with the law. Therefore, Chinese citizens are reminded again to strictly abide by relevant laws and regulations on cross - border marriages, including:

Firstly, according to Chinese law, no marriage agency is allowed to engage in or变相 engage in cross - border marriage introduction services, and no individual is allowed to engage in or变相 engage in cross - border marriage introduction activities by means of deception or for profit. Chinese citizens are advised to stay away from illegal intermediaries who claim to be introduced by acquaintances or friends to avoid losing both money and getting into trouble. If anyone is deceived, they should report the case to the domestic public security organs.

Secondly, money (bride price) is usually an important basis for the local court to determine the crime of human trafficking. Paying a high introduction fee or bride price may lead to arrest on suspicion of human trafficking and get involved in a long - drawn - out judicial process in Madagascar.

Thirdly, according to Malagasy law, foreign citizens are not allowed to engage in activities that do not match the visa category after entering the country. There is no visa in Madagascar specifically for the purpose of coming to marry. The visa on arrival at the Malagasy airport can only be used for tourism activities. Chinese citizens should understand their visa type and the corresponding reasons for coming to Madagascar and leave the country within the visa validity period to avoid being punished for violating Malagasy law.

In case of an emergency, please call the following numbers for help:

Consular protection hotline of the relevant embassy in Madagascar: 261 - 3307 - 88188

Emergency call center for global consular protection and services of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: 86 - 10 - 12308 or 86 - 10 - 65612308