Chinese embassy in Angola warns citizens not to fall foul of immigration crackdown

The Chinese embassy in Angola has issued a warning about a crackdown on illegal immigration in the African country, urging its citizens and companies to make sure they follow the correct visa procedures.In a social media post on Wednesday, the embassy warned that Chinese citizens had been among those detained, fined or deported by the Angolan authorities.“We have warned Chinese companies and citizens repeatedly to follow Angola’s laws, find jobs and operate businesses legally,” it said, warning people against trying to exploit a visa-waiver policy for tourists or getting a visa from one firm and then working for another.It added those caught working illegally could face further penalties back in China, including restrictions on leaving the country in the future, while employers could face even harsher penalties.The embassy said foreign nationals and investors were not guaranteed work visas and urged Chinese citizens to cooperate with local law enforcement. It said people should leave the country if they did not have the proper documents.“The embassy will do its utmost within its authority to protect legitimate rights and interests and assist with justified needs,” it said.It also warned against assuming that Angola was “filled with gold” after a series of posts appeared on Chinese social media about investment and work opportunities in the country. Some of these claimed foreigners did not need visas and could make high returns from small investments.