China tightens visa process for Bangladeshis, curb fraud involving travel agencies

The Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh has announced major changes to its visa application process in an effort to increase transparency and curb fraud involving travel agencies.

In a recent notice, the embassy said it had received complaints against several travel agencies over fake applications, excessive service charges, misleading promises regarding visa approval, delayed submissions and other fraudulent activities.

According to the embassy, such irregularities are disrupting the visa process and causing financial and procedural difficulties for applicants. The new regulations will take effect from July 5.

Under the updated rules, any travel agency assisting applicants with Chinese visa processing must hold accreditation from the International Air Transport Association.

The embassy also clarified that no travel agency has been granted exclusive authorisation or official partnership status for Chinese visa processing in Bangladesh.

Authorities have encouraged applicants to apply directly through the official visa application system instead of relying entirely on third-party agencies, saying this would help reduce fraud and improve transparency.

The embassy further warned that legal action will be taken against individuals or organisations conducting commercial visa activities using the embassy’s name or identity without authorisation.

Applicants have also been urged to remain cautious about scams and report any suspicious activity.

For complaints or information regarding irregularities, the embassy asked citizens to contact:

[chinaemb_bd@mfa.gov.cn](mailto:chinaemb_bd@mfa.gov.cn)

[dhaka@csm.mfa.gov.cn](mailto:dhaka@csm.mfa.gov.cn)