Navigating Bangladesh VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
The Government of Bangladesh facilitates international travel through a structured visa regime designed to accommodate various purposes of visit, including tourism, business, employment, and diplomatic engagements. Prospective visitors are advised to familiarize themselves with the relevant policies prior to planning their itinerary.
Visa Policy Overview
Bangladesh offers multiple visa categories, primarily differentiated by entry purpose and duration. Key options include Tourist Visas, Business Visas, and Student Visas. Nationals of many countries can obtain visas on arrival at designated ports of entry, most commonly for tourism and short-term business visits, subject to fulfilling specific eligibility criteria. However, it is strongly recommended that travelers confirm their eligibility for this service in advance, as policies are subject to change. Alternatively, visas can be procured prior to travel from Bangladeshi diplomatic missions abroad. The government also implements an online visa application system for certain nationalities, streamlining the pre-arrival process. It is crucial to apply under the correct category, as visas are generally non-convertible.
Regulatory Policies
Bangladesh has specific immigration regulations that all visitors must adhere to during their stay.
Registration Requirements
- All foreign nationals staying longer than 90 days must register with the Foreigners’ Registration Office (FRO) within 7 days of arrival.
- Hotel accommodations automatically register foreign guests with local authorities.
- Foreigners staying in private residences must ensure their host completes the registration process.
Visa Extension
- Visa extensions can be applied for at the Department of Immigration & Passports in Dhaka or local police commissioner’s offices.
- Extensions are typically granted for 30-90 days depending on visa type and circumstances.
- Overstaying your visa results in fines (approximately $25 per day) and potential legal consequences.
Restricted & Protected Areas
- Restricted Area Permits (RAP) must be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs in advance.
- Certain areas in Bangladesh (mainly border regions and the Chittagong Hill Tracts) require special permits for foreign visitors.
- Travel to these areas without proper authorization is illegal and may result in deportation.
Visa Application Process
Applying for a Bangladesh visa involves several steps. The process varies slightly between embassies and online applications.
Determine Visa Type
Identify the appropriate visa category based on your purpose of visit.
Complete Application
Fill the visa application form online or at the Embassy/Consulate.
Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents based on your visa type.
Submit Application
Submit in person at Embassy/Consulate or through authorized visa center.
Pay Fees & Wait
Pay the visa fee and wait for processing (typically 5-10 working days).
Receive Visa
Collect your passport with visa or receive eVisa via email.
Required Documents
- Passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
- Completed visa application form (online or paper)
- Two recent passport-size photographs (45mm x 35mm)
- Proof of travel itinerary (flight bookings)
- Proof of accommodation in Bangladesh
- Financial proof (bank statements for last 3-6 months)
- Additional documents based on visa type (invitation letter, admission letter, etc.)
Bangladesh Visa Type
Bangladesh offers various visa categories depending on the purpose and duration of your visit. Below are the main visa types available for travelers:
Single Entry Visa
$51 – $101
Valid for 30-90 days depending on nationality and purpose.
- Tourist: $51 – $81
- Business: $101
- Processing: 5-7 working days
Multiple Entry Visa
$151 – $201
Valid for 6 months to 1 year with multiple entries allowed.
- 6 months: $151
- 1 year: $201
- Processing: 7-10 working days
Special Category Visa
Fees for student, employment, and diplomatic visas.
- Student: $101 – $151
- Employment: $201+
- Diplomatic: Usually fee exempt
Important: Visa on Arrival is available for citizens of certain countries at Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) and Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP). Check eligibility with the Bangladesh Embassy before travel
Visa Fee Structure
Bangladesh visa fees vary based on visa type, duration, and number of entries. Fees are subject to change without notice. All fees are in US Dollars (USD).
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Leisure travel, sightseeing, visiting friends/family | 30 days to 1 year (multiple entries possible) | Passport valid for 6+ months, return ticket, proof of accommodation |
| Business Visa | Business meetings, conferences, trade activities | 3 months to 1 year (multiple entries) | Invitation letter from Bangladeshi company, business references |
| Student Visa | Enrollment in educational institutions in Bangladesh | Duration of study program | Admission letter from recognized institution, financial proof |
| Employment Visa | Foreign nationals employed in Bangladesh | 1-2 years (renewable) | Employment contract, work permit from Bangladesh government |
| Diplomatic/Official Visa | Government officials, diplomats, UN personnel | As per assignment duration | Official note from sending government/agency |
| Research Visa | Academic research, fieldwork, data collection | Up to 1 year | Research proposal approval from relevant ministry |
Payment Methods: Visa fees must be paid in the local currency equivalent at the Embassy/Consulate or via designated payment portals for online applications. Fees are non-refundable even if the visa is denied.
Traveling Policies & Requirements
Important information for travelers entering and exiting Bangladesh.
Pre-Travel Verification
Given that immigration regulations are periodically updated, visitors are strongly encouraged to consult official sources for the most current information prior to travel. The definitive authorities for visa and entry requirements are the Department of Immigration and Passports of Bangladesh and the official websites of Bangladeshi embassies or consulates in the traveler’s country of residence. Ensuring compliance with these policies from the outset enables a smooth and efficient entry process.
Essential Travel Guidelines
All travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended date of departure from Bangladesh. Upon entry, visitors are required to comply with customs regulations and declare certain items. While most travelers are not required to present specific vaccination certificates, staying informed about current public health advisories is essential. Furthermore, individuals intending to stay for extended periods or for purposes such as work or study must secure the appropriate visa and may need to complete additional registration processes with local authorities after arrival.
Entry Requirements
- Valid passport with Bangladesh visa (except for visa-exempt countries)
- Return or onward journey ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from infected areas
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate or negative test result (as per current regulations)
Customs Regulations
- Duty-free allowance: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 2 bottles of alcoholic beverages
- Currency declaration required if carrying over $5,000 or equivalent
- Prohibited items: narcotics, pornography, firearms, counterfeit currency
- Restricted items: archaeological artifacts, wireless equipment without prior approval
COVID-19 & Health Policies
Health Advisory: Check current health requirements before travel. Bangladesh may require specific vaccinations or health documentation. Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended.
Exit Requirements
- Valid passport with appropriate immigration stamps
- Payment of any airport departure tax (usually included in airfare)
- Clearance from employer if on employment visa (for some categories)
- Settlement of any outstanding fines or legal obligations
Bangladesh Visa – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Tourist Visa: For leisure, sightseeing, and family visits.
- Business Visa: For meetings, trade, and commercial activities.
- Work Visa: For employment with approved Bangladeshi sponsors.
- Student Visa: For academic and educational purposes.
- Transit Visa: For short stopovers while traveling onward.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Completed visa application form
- Confirmed flight itinerary
- Hotel booking or invitation letter
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Business or employment documents (if applicable)
Visa fees vary depending on nationality and visa type:
- Tourist visa fees differ by country
- Business and work visa fees are usually higher
- Standard processing: 7–15 working days
- May take longer if additional verification is required
Yes. Visa on Arrival is available for certain nationalities for short visits, subject to eligibility conditions and approval at the port of entry.
Visa extensions may be granted by the Department of Immigration and Passports in Bangladesh, depending on visa type and valid reasons.
No. Employment is strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. A valid work visa and government approval are required.
- Bangladesh Embassy or High Commission
- Authorized Consulate in your country
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Insufficient financial proof
- Unclear purpose of travel
- Previous immigration violations
Note: Bangladesh visa regulations may change at any time. Always verify details with official authorities before applying.