Bangladesh issues special visa guidelines ahead of national election

The government has issued a set of special visa instructions ahead of the national election to ensure the safe and orderly arrival, stay and departure of foreign nationals.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued the guidelines on Monday, aiming to streamline entry procedures while maintaining security and effective monitoring during the election period.

According to the order, existing visa policies must be strictly followed when issuing all types of visas, including visas on arrival.

The verification of required documents and coordination among concerned agencies should also be strengthened.

The guidelines include:

Embassies/Missions Abroad: Bangladesh missions abroad will issue specific visas only after adhering to the terms and conditions of the Visa Policy 2006 and subsequent notifications, and after proper verification of relevant documents.

Visas on Arrival: Visas on arrival may be issued to eligible foreigners following the circular issued on September 15, 2016. The purpose of arrival, sponsoring institution or person, accommodation details, return ticket, and other requirements must be thoroughly verified. Any irregularity, deviation, or suspicion will result in visa denial.

Foreign Military and Security Personnel: Prior permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs is mandatory for foreign military and security force members to enter Bangladesh.

Election Observers and Journalists: On the recommendation of the Election Commission and relevant ministries, arrival visas bearing the seal “Election Observation” will be issued to foreign observers and journalists for the election period. Visa fees may be waived for election observers.

Coordination and Monitoring: Special Branches will enhance coordination among intelligence and law enforcement agencies during visa issuance, arrivals, and departures at all international airports, land, and sea ports.

Reporting Requirements: Bangladesh embassies/missions abroad, the Directorate of Immigration and Passports, Special Branches, and ports of entry have been instructed to send detailed daily reports in Excel format on visa issuance and the arrival and departure of foreign nationals to the Additional Secretary (Immigration Sub-Division) of the Ministry of Home Affairs.