Chinese embassy warns on bogus travel agents

The Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe has cautioned citizens against using unofficial travel agents to apply for visas, warning that some applicants have been paying inflated fees to third-party operators.

China's Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, posted on his X account that the embassy had noted "some applicants are paying significantly higher fees to third-party agents for Chinese visa services." He urged applicants to verify official visa costs directly with the embassy to avoid unnecessary expenses.

"The Embassy has not authorised or appointed any agent, intermediary, or individual to handle or assist with consular document-related services on its behalf," Zhou said. "Up-to-date information regarding the Embassy's consular services, including the straightforward visa application process, is published on the Embassy's official website in a transparent and comprehensive manner."

He further advised that visa applications should be submitted exclusively through the official global application portal. The embassy emphasized that relying on unauthorised agents could lead to overpayments or potential fraud.

Zimbabweans planning travel to China are encouraged to consult the embassy's website or contact its Visa Section directly to ensure their applications comply with official procedures.