Bangladesh launches e-visa to boost tourism and business

As part of a strategic initiative to transform its tourism sector, Bangladesh is preparing to inaugurate a revolutionary electronic visa system, promising delivery in just 24 hours.

Official online visa application platform

Simplify visa applications

Announced by Bangladesh's High Commissioner to Pakistan, Iqbal Hussain Khan, this initiative aims to reduce traditional formalities, particularly conventional paper visa applications. Whereas travelers previously had to wait several weeks to obtain a visaโ€”a delay that could discourage potential visitorsโ€”this new fast-track system now allows approval to be obtained in a single day. This speed offers unprecedented flexibility to tourists and professionals who need to plan last-minute trips.

Via the official online platform from the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh โ€“ Department of Immigration and Passports, several application services are available: New Visa, Visa Extension, Visa Waiver, and Visa on Arrival (VOA). All travelers must check their visa eligibility and Bangladesh's entry policy.

Visa on arrival is a new procedure available to nationals of the following countries: United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, China, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Turkey, Brunei, and European countries traveling to Bangladesh for tourism, trade, investment, or government employment, for a stay of up to 30 days. The process must be started from the official website. A online form must be completed with the following information: traveler details, required documents, and payment of consular fees. The approved visa on arrival application will be a document to download and present to the immigration officer in Bangladesh, who will then validate entry into the country.

Boosting tourism and trade

The authorities hope that this ease of access will encourage international travelers to explore the country's rich culture and diverse landscapes. The High Commissioner specifically highlighted iconic destinations such as the Sundarbans, Cox's Bazar beach, and the vibrant streets of Dhaka, which are expected to benefit directly from this influx of tourists.

The tourism sector should take advantage of this fluidity. By simplifying entry for travelers, whether they are businesspeople, foreign investors, or tourists, Bangladesh intends to stimulate activity in various areas in order to boost trade and position itself as an accessible destination in South Asia.

As a customer relations officer, my role is to manage and monitor visa applications. I keep abreast of new travel formalities and the specific features of new visas.

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