By the end of this guide, you’ll understand every step — what visa category you need, which documents to gather, how to apply (online or in person), fees and processing times, on-arrival options, exemptions for SAARC countries, common reasons for refusal, and what’s next as Bangladesh rolls out more digital services.

Visa Categories for Visitors

Bangladesh issues several visa types. For most travelers, the Ordinary (Tourist) Visa applies, but you should be aware of other categories.

Tourist (Ordinary) Visa

You’ll use this for sight-seeing, visiting friends or family, or cultural tours. It’s granted for single or multiple entry with stays up to 60 days, as outlined in the UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office’s entry requirements for Bangladesh.

Diplomatic and Official Visas

Holders of diplomatic or official passports benefit from fee waivers or visa-free travel under bilateral agreements. Check with your mission for exact privileges.

Special-Purpose Visas

While Bangladesh has discussed pilot programs for eco-tourism and medical tourism visas, none are open yet. Keep an eye on the Ministry of Civil Aviation & Tourism website for announcements on new visa categories.

Document Checklist & SAARC Exemptions

Before you start, prepare the following:

• Valid passport (minimum six months’ validity, as required by the IATA Travel Centre’s Bangladesh entry overview)
• Completed visa application form (download from the Bangladesh e-Visa portal)
• Two recent passport-style photos
• Proof of onward or return travel
• Bank statements or sponsorship letter showing at least US $500 (per iVisa’s Bangladesh Tourist Visa requirements)
• Itinerary or hotel booking confirmation

Nationals of SAARC countries (India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives) can obtain Visa on Arrival for up to 30 days without paying fees, per the Visa policy of Bangladesh – Visa on arrival.

How to Apply: Online, Mail, or In Person

1. Online via e-Visa Portal

• Visit visa.gov.bd
• Create an account and fill in personal details
• Upload scanned documents and photo
• Pay fees by credit card
• Track status online
• Print your e-Visa approval letter

In November 2021, Bangladesh launched this e-Visa service to cut processing times and reduce paperwork (announced by The Business Standard).

2. By Mail or In Person

• Download the form from the High Commission or Consulate website
• Pay fees by bank draft or money order
• Mail or submit your application with supporting documents
• Some missions offer expedited service (24–72 hours) for an extra charge (High Commission of Bangladesh in Canada)

Fees & Processing Times

Fees vary by nationality and visa type. Typical Tourist Visa fees range from US $50 to US $100.

Processing times:
– Standard: 7–10 business days
– Expedited: 2–3 business days (additional fee)
– Emergency visas (issued by select missions): within 24 hours

Visa on Arrival & Alternative Entry Points

If you qualify for Visa on Arrival (see SAARC exemptions above), you can enter through:
– Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka)
– Shah Amanat International Airport (Chittagong)
– Cox’s Bazar Airport
– Land crossings at Benapole, Tamabil, Banglabandha and others

Avoiding Common Rejection Traps

Most refusals stem from:
1. Incomplete or incorrect forms
2. Passport validity under six months
3. No proof of sufficient funds
4. Missing return-ticket confirmation

Tip: Double-check each document against the checklist before submission.

Tracking Trends & Policy Impact

International arrivals grew steadily from about 731,000 in 2015 to over 1 million in 2019, before dropping to 192,000 in 2020 due to COVID-19. As travel restrictions relaxed, visitor numbers rebounded in 2022, according to the World Bank’s international tourism data for Bangladesh. Policy changes—like launching Visa on Arrival in 2013 and the e-Visa system in 2021—correlate with noticeable upticks in arrivals the following years.

Biometric & Security Protocols

• e-Visa applicants upload a clear facial image.
• Upon arrival, all visitors undergo fingerprinting and facial scans at immigration counters to match biometric data with your passport.

These measures align with ICAO’s security standards and help secure borders.

Regional Security & Entry Clearances

If you’ve traveled recently to high-risk zones, your application may require additional security clearance, which can extend processing to 3–4 weeks. Always apply well in advance if your itinerary includes a stop in such countries.

What’s Next: Bangladesh’s Visa Digitalization

The government plans to launch a mobile app for e-Visa applications by mid-2024, integrate payment gateways for local currency, and expand automated self-service kiosks at land and river border posts.

Your Bangladesh Adventure Awaits

Now that you know every detail — from selecting the right visa category to sidestepping rejection pitfalls and leveraging new digital tools — your journey to Bangladesh is one application away. Happy travels!