The Chinese Embassy in The Gambia officially launched its consular visa service on Tuesday in a ceremony held at the embassy in Bijilo. Zhao Shangsen, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, presided over the event, emphasizing the importance of this service in strengthening the growing strategic partnership between China and The Gambia.
Zhao explained that a Chinese visa is required for all visitors to China who do not hold a Gambian diplomatic or service passport. He outlined the visa application process, which includes completing an online application form, submitting required documents, and a visa fee of D3,000 for a single-entry visa. He added that processing times typically take four working days and that applicants must pay via Ecobank rather than in cash.
The launch also marked nine years since the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Zhao noted that over 1,000 Gambians had visited China this year. Sheriff Saidykhan, Vice President of the Gambia Press Union, praised the new visa process as smooth and efficient, sharing his own positive experience.
Zhao explained that a Chinese visa is required for all visitors to China who do not hold a Gambian diplomatic or service passport. He outlined the visa application process, which includes completing an online application form, submitting required documents, and a visa fee of D3,000 for a single-entry visa. He added that processing times typically take four working days and that applicants must pay via Ecobank rather than in cash.
The launch also marked nine years since the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Zhao noted that over 1,000 Gambians had visited China this year. Sheriff Saidykhan, Vice President of the Gambia Press Union, praised the new visa process as smooth and efficient, sharing his own positive experience.
