What is a Bangladesh Visa?
Bangladesh offers visa services for Indian citizens through its High Commission in New Delhi and consulates across India. Indian passport holders can also obtain a visa-on-arrival at Dhaka airport for certain travel purposes. Due to friendly bilateral relations, visa processing is relatively straightforward.
2026 Updates at a Glance: See the Updates table at the end of this guide for all 2026 changes to fees, visa durations, and policies.
Application Mode: Online + embassy submission. Currency: Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Embassy: High Commission of Bangladesh, New Delhi. Consulates in Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Agartala, Guwahati
Quick Overview
| Visa Required? | Yes, Indian citizens need a visa for travel to Bangladesh; visa-on-arrival available for certain categories |
|---|---|
| Main Visa Types | Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Student Visa, Work Visa, Medical Visa, Visa-on-Arrival |
| Processing Time | Regular visa: 5-15 days; Visa-on-Arrival: on arrival (30 mins) |
| Visa Fee Range | BDT 0 (free for SAARC including Indians) to BDT 20,000+ (work visa) |
| Financial Requirement | Tourists: minimal; Students: BDT 200,000-500,000/year; Work: employer-sponsored |
| Maximum Stay | Tourist: 30 days (extendable); Student: course duration; Work: 1-2 years |
| Biometrics | Not required for Indian citizens |
| Health Insurance | Not mandatory |
| Application Centers | Bangladesh High Commission New Delhi; Consulates; Visa-on-Arrival at Dhaka Airport |
| English Requirement | Not required for tourist; some evidence for student visas |
| Approval Rate | Regular visa: ~90%; Visa-on-Arrival: ~85% |
What is a Bangladesh Visa?
Bangladesh offers visa services for Indian citizens through its High Commission in New Delhi and consulates across India. Indian passport holders can also obtain a visa-on-arrival at Dhaka airport for certain travel purposes. Due to friendly bilateral relations, visa processing is relatively straightforward.
Over 2 million Indians visited Bangladesh in 2024, making India the largest source of international visitors. Many Indians travel for tourism, business, medical treatment, and pilgrimage. Direct flights connect Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru to Dhaka.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Bangladesh?
Indian passport holders need a visa for Bangladesh. A visa-on-arrival is available at Dhaka airport for tourists, business visitors, and medical travelers with proper documentation. Regular visas can be obtained from the Bangladesh High Commission and consulates in India.
What Is Available and Not Available
| Can Indians... | Yes/No | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Travel for tourism (up to 30 days) | Yes (Visa or VOA) | Regular visa from consulate or visa-on-arrival at Dhaka airport |
| Travel for business meetings | Yes (Business Visa) | Requires invitation letter; VOA also available |
| Study at Bangladeshi institutions | Yes (Student Visa) | Requires admission letter from recognized institution |
| Work as a professional | Yes (Work Visa) | Employer sponsorship required; valid 1-2 years |
| Transit through Bangladesh | Yes (Transit) | Up to 72 hours with confirmed onward ticket |
| Live permanently | Limited (Resident Visa) | Available for long-term work, investment, or marriage |
Types of Bangladesh Visas for Indians
Bangladesh offers multiple visa pathways for Indian citizens depending on your purpose: short visits, study, work, or permanent residency.
| Visa Type | Subclass | Purpose | Max Stay | Processing | Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Tourist | Tourism, family visits | 30 days (extendable) | 5-10 working days | Free (SAARC) |
| Business Visa | Business | Business meetings, trade | 1-5 years | 5-10 working days | Free (SAARC) |
| Student Visa | Student | Full-time study | Course duration | 2-4 weeks | BDT 5,000-10,000 |
| Work Visa | Employment | Employment by Bangladeshi company | 1-2 years (renewable) | 2-4 weeks | BDT 10,000-20,000 |
| Medical Visa | Medical | Medical treatment in Bangladesh | 30 days | 3-5 working days | Free (SAARC) |
| Visa-on-Arrival | VOA | Tourism, business, medical (at Dhaka airport) | 30 days | On arrival | ₹50-100 |
Bangladesh Visa Fees for Indians 2026
Visa fees vary significantly by category. All fees are non-refundable and subject to change based on exchange rates.
| Visa Type | Subclass | Fee (BDT) | Fee (₹Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Tourist | Free (SAARC) | Free |
| Business Visa | Business | Free (SAARC) | Free |
| Student Visa | Student | BDT 5,000-10,000 | ₹3,80,000 to ₹4,20,000 |
| Work Visa | Employment | BDT 10,000-20,000 | ₹7,60,000 to ₹8,40,000 |
| Medical Visa | Medical | Free (SAARC) | Free |
| Visa-on-Arrival | VOA | ₹50-100 | ₹3,800 to ₹4,200 |
Additional Costs
| Cost Type | Amount (₹) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Processing Fee | ₹500 to 1,000 | Some consulates may charge processing fee |
| Translation/Certification | ₹500 to 2,000 | Per document if needed |
| Courier/Passport Return | ₹600 to 1,000 | Optional passport delivery |
Documents Required for Bangladesh Visa
Every Bangladesh visa application requires proof of identity, purpose of visit, and financial capacity.
Core Documents (All Visa Types)
- Valid Indian passport — Must have at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay. At least 2 blank pages.
- Digital photograph — 2x2 inches (51x51mm), white background, taken within 6 months.
- Completed online application — Via the official portal. All details must match your passport exactly.
- Previous visas and travel history — Include copies of previous visas and travel stamps.
- Cover letter — Explaining purpose of visit, duration, and itinerary.
Tourist Visa — Tourist
Best for: Tourism, family visits.
Business Visa — Business
Best for: Business meetings, trade.
Student Visa — Student
Best for: Full-time study.
Work Visa — Employment
Best for: Employment by Bangladeshi company.
Medical Visa — Medical
Best for: Medical treatment in Bangladesh.
Visa-on-Arrival — VOA
Best for: Tourism, business, medical (at Dhaka airport).
Why Financial Evidence Matters
Immigration authorities need assurance that you can support yourself without working illegally or relying on public funds. Incomplete or inconsistent financial documentation is a leading cause of refusal for Indian applicants.
Indian Banking Nuances for Bangladesh Visa
| Bank | Statement Features | Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBI | Passbook + online statement with branch seal | Yes | Most widely accepted. Ensure statements are stamped and signed by branch manager |
| HDFC Bank | Digital statements with QR code verification | Yes | Save as PDF with visible bank logo and account holder name |
| ICICI Bank | E-statements with digital signature | Yes | Some assessing officers prefer wet-stamped copies |
| Axis Bank | Online statements with transaction details | Yes | Add a salary credit highlight for clarity |
| Yes Bank / Kotak | App-generated statements with branch counterfoil | Yes | Get branch-stamped versions to avoid delays |
| PNB / Canara / BoB | Passbook-based + supplementary statement | Yes (may need branch visit) | Passbook entries with branch seal; request separate statement letter |
| Education Loan | Loan sanction letter + disbursement schedule | Yes (strongest evidence) | Education loans demonstrate organized financial planning and third-party verification |
Bangladesh Visa Application Process for Indians
The application process typically involves the following steps:
Step 1: Choose Your Visa Type and Check Eligibility
Use the official visa finder or this guide to select the correct visa category. Check eligibility requirements including financial capacity and supporting documents.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill out the online visa application form with accurate personal details, passport information, and travel history. Any discrepancy can lead to refusal.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa fee online via credit/debit card. Your bank will apply the current exchange rate plus forex markup.
Step 4: Schedule and Attend the Visa Interview
Book an appointment at the nearest embassy or consulate. Carry all required documents. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, financial status, and ties to India.
Step 5: Complete Biometrics
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the designated application center. Walk-ins are not accepted at most centers.
Step 6: Wait for Processing and Track Online
Processing times vary by visa category. Track your application status online using the reference number provided.
Step 7: Receive Decision and Collect Passport
If approved, your passport will be stamped with the visa or you will receive an electronic authorization. Check the visa conditions carefully.
Processing Time for Bangladesh Visa from India
Processing times vary significantly by visa category:
| Visa Type | Subclass | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Tourist | 5-10 working days | Varies by application volume and completeness |
| Business Visa | Business | 5-10 working days | Varies by application volume and completeness |
| Student Visa | Student | 2-4 weeks | Varies by application volume and completeness |
| Work Visa | Employment | 2-4 weeks | Varies by application volume and completeness |
| Medical Visa | Medical | 3-5 working days | Varies by application volume and completeness |
| Visa-on-Arrival | VOA | On arrival | Varies by application volume and completeness |
Processing Time Note
Processing times are estimates and Indian applications may take longer if additional verification is needed. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
Travel Insurance Requirements
Travel insurance is recommended for all visitors to Bangladesh:
- Tourist/Business Visitors: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage loss is strongly recommended.
- Students: Health insurance is mandatory for student visa holders. Coverage must meet the minimum requirements set by the university or immigration authorities.
- Work Visa Holders: Employer-provided health coverage is typically required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Indian citizens need a visa for Bangladesh. However, visa-on-arrival is available at Dhaka airport. Regular visas from the High Commission are free for SAARC nationals.
Tourist and Business visas are FREE for Indian citizens (SAARC concession). Visa-on-arrival: ₹50-100. Work/Student visas: BDT 5,000-20,000.
Tourist visa allows 30 days stay, extendable at the Department of Immigration in Dhaka for an additional 30 days.
Yes, at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka) for tourists, business visitors, and medical travelers with confirmed hotel bookings, return tickets, and ₹500+ in cash.
Passport (6+ months valid), 2 photos, application form, bank statements (3 months), flight booking, hotel booking, and cover letter.
Submit application at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi or any consulate (Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Agartala, Guwahati). Processing: 5-10 working days.
No. You need a Work Visa sponsored by a Bangladeshi employer. The employer must obtain approval from the Board of Investment.
Yes, Bangladesh is generally safe for Indian tourists. Standard precautions apply. The country has rich cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage sites like Sundarbans and Paharpur.
October to March is the best time with pleasant weather. April to September is monsoon season with heavy rainfall.
Yes, direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru to Dhaka. Flight time: 1-3 hours.
Yes, popular land border crossings: Petrapole-Benapole (Kolkata-Dhaka route), Haridaspur, and several others in West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura.
Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Indian Rupees are not widely accepted. Carry ₹and exchange at authorized money changers. ATMs available in cities.
Yes, proof of onward/return travel is required for visa application and visa-on-arrival.
Yes, visa extensions are possible at the Department of Immigration and Passports in Dhaka. Extension for 30 days typically costs BDT 3,000-5,000.
No mandatory vaccines for entry. Recommended: hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus. Yellow fever vaccine required if traveling from endemic countries.
Bangladesh Visa Updates 2026 — What Has Changed
| Change | Previous | Current (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-on-Arrival Fee | ₹50 | ₹50-100 (revised category-based) |
| SAARC Visa Fee Waiver | Continued | Still free for Indian citizens (unchanged) |
| Visa Application Process | Paper submission only | Online appointment system introduced |
| Multiple Entry Visas | Restricted | More generous multi-entry visa issuance for business travelers |
| Visa Processing Time | 10-15 days | 5-10 days (expedited) |
Official Resources
- Bangladesh High Commission New Delhi: https://bddelhi.mfa.gov.bd/
- Bangladesh Visa Online: https://www.visa.gov.bd/
- Bangladesh Tourism Board: https://www.bangladeshtourism.gov.bd/
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