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Navigating Complex Processes for Clients: An Interview with GONG Ni, Head of the Visa Services Department

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In today’s increasingly globalized world, the application processes for outbound and inbound visas have become more complex, especially when faced with the policies and requirements of different countries. Applicants often feel overwhelmed. In this context, the Visa Service Department plays a crucial role as an important bridge between clients and embassies or consulates. In this interview, GONG Ni, the head of the Visa Services Department at AHK Greater China, delves into the challenges the department faces in processing visa applications, shares successful case studies, and discusses how to provide clients with practical and effective support and solutions.

GONG Ni
AHK Greater China / GONG Ni

Q: Can you share a specific case where you helped a client overcome challenges in their visa application?
A: Certainly. Recently, we assisted a German employee who was trying to apply for a family visit visa for his foreign spouse. After submitting the application, he had not received the visa for quite some time. We discovered that the consulate's review process involved sending an email to the local Ministry of the Interior in Germany for confirmation. To expedite this process, we reached out directly to the Ministry to explain the situation, ultimately helping the client receive his visa on time. This not only demonstrated our deep understanding of the visa process, but also our keen sensitivity to client needs.

 

Q: Please introduce the main functions and services provided by the Visa Service Department.
A: Our services are primarily divided into two categories: outbound and inbound. In the outbound category, we assist Chinese nationals in applying for German Schengen visas or long-term work visas. In the inbound category, we focus on helping foreign clients obtain work permits and residence permits for China. Additionally, we provide supporting services such as translation and notarization of application materials to ensure a smooth visa application process for our clients.

 

Q: What do you believe are the unique aspects of the Visa Service Department in supporting clients?
A: Our uniqueness stems from our experience as a designated visa center for embassies and consulates, which gives us a profound understanding of the Schengen visa processes and application materials. Over the years, we have accumulated extensive knowledge about the application processes for work permits and residence permits for foreigners coming to China. Particularly for German clients, we can offer more targeted assistance, as we understand the specific challenges they face in preparing their application materials.

 

Q: Can you share more representative cases?
A: Certainly. We once helped a German client who held a business visa during the pandemic while managing his company in Shanghai. Due to special regulations, he needed to apply for a PU invitation letter after leaving the country in order to re-enter, which was very difficult to obtain at that time. We communicated with the Foreign Experts Bureau and found a suitable solution to help him secure a work permit and residence permit, allowing him to continue working in China without having to leave the country, which saved him a lot of time and effort.

 

Q: What challenges do you typically encounter during the visa application process? How do you respond to these challenges?
A: We often face misunderstandings from clients regarding the visa approval process. Occasionally, when a visa is not issued on time or a refusal occurs, clients may think it's a failure on our part. In such instances, we need to patiently explain the complexities of the visa application process and help clients analyze the reasons behind these situations, while calming their emotions and maintaining good communication.

 

Q: How do you ensure that your team consistently maintains a high level of service quality and customer satisfaction?
A: Experience and communication skills are key to maintaining service quality. We need to provide flexible responses based on the diverse questions clients may have, rather than relying on a single template or formula. More importantly, we strive to put ourselves in the client's shoes, thoughtfully considering their challenges to provide personalized solutions that enhance their overall satisfaction.

 

Q: What advice do you have for clients who have questions about the visa application process?
A: I would advise clients to choose a reliable visa service provider. Professional services can reduce the potential hassles encountered during the application process and increase the likelihood of success, allowing clients to achieve their goals more efficiently.

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