Chinese Ambassador Zhang Lizhong opened the new Chinese Visa Application Center in Kampala on February 5, 2024, aiming to accommodate the increasing number of Ugandans seeking visas for China.
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Uganda imposed strict measures, including suspending air travel to Beijing, to contain the virus.
Ambassador Lizhong noted a slight rise in visa applications from Ugandans to China in the post-pandemic era, attributing it to China’s response measures categorized as “B and B control” against Covid-19.
Before Covid-19, Uganda typically saw over 40,000 annual visits to China. However, last year, there was a notable recovery with 12,000 visa applicants received by the embassy.
The newly inaugurated China Visa Application Center in Kampala aims to address the increasing demand for Chinese visas among Ugandans.
This center, operated independently, is solely authorized by the embassy to handle ordinary visa and consular legalization applications, distinct from the embassy’s functions.
Applicants holding diplomatic or official passports or applying for certain categories of visas must still apply directly to the embassy.
The embassy will no longer accept ordinary visa applications from passport holders or legalizations through external channels.
Commissioner Godfrey Kambere of immigration control highlighted the center’s role in preventing Ugandans from falling prey to fraudulent individuals offering visa services, aiming to reduce financial losses and streamline the visa process.
Kambere emphasized the center’s role in providing accurate information, facilitating smooth travel, and strengthening bilateral relations between Uganda and China.
In 2023, Uganda issued approximately 15,000 work permits, with 5,000 of them granted to Chinese investors, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Kambere appreciated Chinese investors for their compliance with laws and regulations when applying for permits and visas.
