Verified Facts
Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Bangladesh before traveling.
Visa Policy Overview
Bangladesh has a moderate visa policy, with a mix of visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and pre-arranged visa requirements for different nationalities. Citizens of around 25 countries are eligible for visa-free access to Bangladesh, while many others can obtain a visa on arrival or through an e-visa system. The country's visa policy aims to balance the need to facilitate tourism, business, and cultural exchange with the need to maintain national security and immigration controls.
The visa policy of Bangladesh is designed to cater to different types of visitors, including tourists, business travelers, students, and workers. The country offers various types of visas, including Tourist Visas, Business Visas, Student Visas, and Work Visas, each with its own set of requirements and eligibility criteria. The visa application process typically involves submitting the required documents and fees, and waiting for the visa to be processed and approved.
Requirements By Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required? | Type | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Yes | Tourist/Visa on Arrival | 30 days | Must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel |
| UK Citizens | Yes | Tourist/Visa on Arrival | 30 days | Must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel |
| EU Citizens | Yes | Tourist/Visa on Arrival | 30 days | Must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel |
| Canadian Citizens | Yes | Tourist/Visa on Arrival | 30 days | Must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel |
| Australian Citizens | Yes | Tourist/Visa on Arrival | 30 days | Must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel |
| Indian Citizens | No | Visa-Free | 30 days | Must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel |
| Chinese Citizens | Yes | Tourist/Visa on Arrival | 30 days | Must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel |
By Visitor Type
Tourists: Tourists can obtain a visa on arrival at major airports in Bangladesh, which is valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. The typical stay for tourists is 7-14 days, and extensions are possible but require prior approval from the immigration authorities. Tourists must have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds to support their stay in Bangladesh.
Business Travelers: Business travelers require a Business Visa, which can be obtained through an e-visa system or at the embassy/consulate of Bangladesh. Business travelers must have an invitation letter from a Bangladeshi company, proof of business activities, and a valid passport. The requirements for business travelers are more stringent than for tourists, and the processing time for business visas can take several weeks.
Students: Students require a Student Visa, which can be obtained through an e-visa system or at the embassy/consulate of Bangladesh. Students must have proof of enrollment at a Bangladeshi educational institution, a valid passport, and sufficient funds to support their stay in Bangladesh. The student visa is typically valid for the duration of the course of study.
Workers: Workers require a Work Visa, which can be obtained through an e-visa system or at the embassy/consulate of Bangladesh. Workers must have a sponsorship letter from a Bangladeshi employer, a valid passport, and proof of qualifications and experience. The work visa is typically valid for the duration of the employment contract.
Documents Checklist
- Valid passport with at least six months' validity
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Proof of onward travel
- Proof of sufficient funds to support stay in Bangladesh
- Invitation letter from a Bangladeshi company (for business travelers)
- Proof of enrollment at a Bangladeshi educational institution (for students)
- Sponsorship letter from a Bangladeshi employer (for workers)
- Medical certificate (for some nationalities)
- Police certificate (for some nationalities)
Entry Points & Procedures
The main airports in Bangladesh are Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka and Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong. Land borders are also open to travelers, with major border crossings at Benapole, Burimari, and Teknaf. Upon arrival, travelers must proceed to the immigration counter, where they will be required to present their travel documents and complete an arrival card. The immigration officer will then stamp the passport and issue a visa on arrival, if eligible.
Travelers can expect a relatively straightforward process at immigration, but it is essential to ensure that all required documents are in order and that the visa application is complete. Travelers should also be prepared to answer questions about their purpose of visit, length of stay, and accommodation arrangements.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Not having a valid passport with at least six months' validity
- Not having proof of onward travel
- Not having sufficient funds to support stay in Bangladesh
- Not having the required documents for the type of visa applied for
- Not completing the visa application form correctly
- Not arriving at the correct entry point, resulting in delays or denial of entry