Lusaka, Zambia – May 26, 2025 — Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has publicly called on the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) to refund visa application fees to Zambian citizens whose visa requests are denied. The announcement, made on Friday, May 23, 2025, underscores growing concerns over the financial burden imposed on applicants by non-refundable visa fees.

President Hichilema emphasized that visa fees should be charged only for successful applications, arguing that the current system is unfair to applicants who are denied entry without reimbursement. He stated, “It is unacceptable that our citizens lose significant sums of money on unsuccessful applications,” highlighting the need for a more equitable approach to visa processing fees. 

The President’s remarks have sparked discussions on visa policies and fairness in international travel regulations. While the UK government has a defined refund policy for certain immigration and nationality applications, it does not typically cover rejected visas. The EU’s stance on visa fee refunds remains unclear, but the Zambian leader’s demand could prompt further debate on the issue. 

The Zambian government has not yet outlined how it will engage with EU and UK authorities to pursue this demand. However, the call has resonated with many, sparking conversations about the fairness and transparency of visa application processes worldwide.

As discussions unfold, it remains to be seen whether the EU and UK will respond to Zambia’s request. The proposal has received mixed reactions, with some supporting the idea as a step toward fairer travel policies, while others question its feasibility. 

This development adds to the ongoing discourse on immigration policies and the financial implications for applicants, particularly from developing nations. Observers will be watching closely to see how the EU and UK respond to President Hichilema’s call for reform.