The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe has issued a stern public notice warning citizens against using third-party agents or intermediaries for visa applications, emphasising that all consular services must be sought strictly through official channels. The advisory comes amid reports of applicants being exploited by unauthorised agents, with some paying inflated fees for services that should be handled directly by the embassy.
According to the embassy, it has never authorised any individual or company to act on its behalf for visa processing or other consular services. The notice, released on 14 November 2025, explicitly stated:
“The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe hereby informs the public that it has not authorised or appointed any agent, intermediary, or individual to handle or assist with consular document-related services on its behalf.”
The embassy urged applicants to rely solely on verified information posted on its official website, where comprehensive guidelines on visa procedures are published. This includes step-by-step instructions, document requirements, and updates on processing times. By directing applicants to official sources, the embassy seeks to eliminate confusion and protect citizens from falling victim to fraudulent practices.
“The visa application process is straightforward and transparent when handled through official channels,” the notice stated, cautioning the public against relying on unofficial sources that may misrepresent procedures or charge unwarranted fees.
Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe Warns Against Visa Scams, Urges Use of Official Channels
One of the key warnings highlighted in the notice concerns payment procedures. The embassy emphasised that visa fees are only payable once a visa has been approved and is ready for collection. Under no circumstances should applicants pay fees upfront or to individuals claiming to act as agents. The official fee schedule, provided by the embassy, is as follows:
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Standard visa: US$45 (approximately R900)
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Express service (2–3 working days): US$25 (approximately R500)
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Rush service (1 working day): US$37 (approximately R740)
The embassy further clarified that all applications must be submitted exclusively through the official global portal for Chinese visa services. By doing so, applicants can ensure the legitimacy of their submissions, avoid unnecessary delays, and protect themselves from potential scams.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, reinforced the warning in a statement released on 14 November 2025. He noted with concern that some applicants were being charged significantly higher fees by third-party agents, which often exceeded the official rates. The ambassador urged the public to confirm all fee-related details directly with the embassy before making any payments.
“It has come to our attention that some applicants are paying significantly higher fees to third-party agents for Chinese visa services. I advise all applicants to confirm the official visa fees directly with our office to avoid paying unnecessary costs,” Ambassador Zhou said. He also linked to the embassy’s earlier notice and encouraged applicants to verify all information before proceeding with any payment.
The advisory is part of a broader effort by the Chinese Embassy to protect applicants and ensure that consular services are delivered efficiently and transparently. Embassy officials stressed that official channels are not only safer but also faster and more reliable than unauthorised intermediaries.
In addition to warning against fraud, the embassy highlighted that reliance on unofficial agents could result in delays, misplaced documents, or outright denial of visa applications. By using authorised channels, applicants avoid these risks and ensure compliance with Chinese consular regulations.
The embassy also called on the public to exercise vigilance and report any suspicious activity involving purported visa agents. Citizens were encouraged to contact the embassy directly via email or phone for verification or guidance, reinforcing the message that official engagement is the only legitimate means of processing visas.
This public notice comes amid growing concerns about visa-related scams targeting Zimbabwean citizens. With travel between Zimbabwe and China increasing for business, study, and tourism, authorities emphasised the need for awareness and caution. The embassy’s message is clear: applicants must bypass intermediaries and engage only with official Chinese diplomatic channels to ensure safe, efficient, and transparent service.
By issuing the warning, the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe seeks not only to safeguard its consular processes but also to protect citizens from financial exploitation. The message is unambiguous: avoid unofficial agents, follow the embassy’s official procedures, and confirm all payments and documents through verified channels. Failure to do so could result in unnecessary expenses, delays, or compromised applications.
The embassy’s call for vigilance underscores the importance of transparency, proper verification, and adherence to official protocols—ensuring that Zimbabweans seeking Chinese visas are protected, informed, and empowered throughout the application process.
