Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has called on the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) to refund visa application fees to Zambian citizens whose applications are rejected.
Speaking on Friday, May 23, 2025, President Hichilema expressed concern over the financial burden visa fees place on citizens, especially when applications are denied without clear reasons. He argued that fees should only apply to successful applicants, calling the current system unfair.
“It is unacceptable that our citizens lose significant sums of money on unsuccessful applications,” the President said, adding that Zambians seeking travel opportunities for education, business, or tourism should not be penalized financially for visa rejections.
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His remarks have ignited renewed debate on the fairness of global visa policies. Many applicants from developing nations often face steep fees and high rejection rates, with little or no refund options.
Currently, the UK has defined refund policies for some immigration and nationality applications, but these do not typically extend to visa denials. The EU’s policies on visa fee refunds remain largely unspecified.
President Hichilema’s demand has drawn mixed reactions—some applauding it as a push for equitable treatment in global travel, others questioning the logistical and diplomatic feasibility of such a policy shift.
The Zambian government has not yet revealed how it plans to formally engage with the EU and UK on the issue, but the President’s stance signals a bold step toward advocating for more just international travel systems.
