Chinese Embassy Launches Consular Visa Service in The Gambia

By: Binta Jaiteh

The Chinese Embassy in The Gambia has officially launched its consular visa service, a move aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and facilitating easier travel between the two countries.

The launch ceremony, held on Tuesday at the Chinese Embassy in Bijilo, was presided over by Zhao Shangsen, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China.

In his remarks, Mr. Zhao said the establishment of the consular visa service marks an important milestone in the growing strategic partnership between China and The Gambia, which is founded on mutual respect and friendship.

“If you are not holding a Gambian diplomatic or service passport, a Chinese visa is required to visit China,” he explained. “Applicants must first complete the visa application form online for pre-check. Once approved, they can submit the required documents to the Consular Section of the Chinese Embassy in The Gambia.”

He outlined the requirements, which include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, sufficient blank pages, and a printed passport photo. Chinese ordinary visas, he added, are categorized into 17 types, including tourism, business, work, study, and family visits.

Mr. Zhao further announced a preferential visa fee of D3,000 for an ordinary single-entry visa, valid until the end of 2025. Fees for double-entry, multiple-entry, or expedited services vary, and cash payments are not accepted. Applicants must instead deposit the visa fee into the Embassy’s Ecobank account.

“The visa process takes four working days depending on individual circumstances,” he noted. “We consider the opening of the visa office a crucial pillar of our cooperation. We are ready to improve our services and welcome feedback from the public.”

Highlighting the strength of bilateral ties, Mr. Zhao said this year marks nine years since the resumption of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of The Gambia.

“So far this year, more than 1,000 Gambians from various sectors have visited China on different occasions,” he revealed, thanking Gamtel for its support in establishing two fixed telephone lines, one for visa-related inquiries and another for general inquiries.

Meanwhile, Sheriff Saidykhan, Vice President of the Gambia Press Union (GPU), shared his positive experience with the new visa process, describing it as “smooth and efficient.”

“This was my first time applying for a visa, and I didn’t face any difficulty during the process,” he said, commending Chinese officials for their professionalism and coordination.

Mr. Saidykhan is among four Gambian journalists selected to participate in an upcoming seminar on new media operations and management in China next week.

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 By: Binta Jaiteh The Chinese Embassy in The Gambia has officially launched its consular visa service, a move aimed at…
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