Chinese national fined for overstaying visa and illegal business activities

April 13, 2025 9:40 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Terence Malapa.

A Chinese national has been penalised by the Department of Immigration Services for overstaying his visa and engaging in illegal business activities in Vanuatu.

According to an official report from the Department, dated March 2025, Mr. Liu Senlin entered the country on a tourist visa on November 8, 2024. However, he failed to depart within the permitted duration and has remained in the country unlawfully.

Investigations further revealed that during his overstay, Mr. Liu was involved in unauthorised business activities, violating Vanuatu’s immigration and business regulations.

Authorities have since taken action, including issuing a fine and initiating procedures in line with national immigration laws.

On November 8, 2024, border control officers identified Mr. Liu at the Border Control checkpoint. Upon checking his immigration status through the MIDAS system, authorities confirmed that he had overstayed his tourist visa.

Records indicated that Mr. Liu had been residing at Golden Ports and was actively involved in business activities in Eratap Village, despite his visa not permitting employment. Further investigations revealed that he had been working continuously throughout his overstay period.

Mr. Liu is married to the daughter of Chief Willy Andrew of Eratap Village. Chief Andrew, who is also Mr. Liu’s uncle-in-law, is a well-known local figure. Mr. Liu had been living with his wife’s family during his unauthorised stay in the country.

The Department of Immigration Services has taken measures against Mr. Liu for violating immigration and business regulations, and his case remains under review for further action.

He has since settled the fine and resolved the matter with the Department, agreeing to voluntarily leave the country.

The Department continues to remind foreign nationals to respect and comply with Vanuatu’s immigration laws, including visa conditions and restrictions on employment. Tourist visas are strictly for tourism purposes, and foreign nationals found violating these conditions may face legal consequences, including deportation.

Businesses, employers, and the public are encouraged to report any suspected violations to the Department of Immigration to ensure fairness and protect Vanuatu’s national and economic interests.