Reviewed by: Professional Visa Consultants team of BTWVisas (Bangladesh Visa Experts)
Planning your dream trip to Bangladesh? As an Indian citizen, understanding the Bangladesh tourist visa requirements for 2025-2026 is essential for a smooth travel experience. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about obtaining a Bangladesh tourist visa, from application procedures to fees, processing times, and expert tips to ensure approval.
|
Aspect |
Details |
|
Visa Type |
Tourist Visa (Sticker Visa) |
|
Maximum Stay |
30 days per entry |
|
Visa Validity |
180 days from date of issue |
|
Visa Fee for Indians |
FREE (₹0) |
|
Processing Time |
3-5 working days (standard) |
|
Application Method |
Online at www.visa.gov.bd + Physical submission at High Commission |
|
Entry Type |
Single Entry or Multiple Entry |
|
Multiple Entry Validity |
Up to 6 months or 1 year |
|
Passport Validity Required |
Minimum 6 months beyond travel date |
|
Blank Pages Required |
Minimum 2 blank pages |
|
Visa Format |
Sticker visa (affixed to passport) |
|
Best Time to Apply |
2-3 weeks before intended travel |
|
Application Window |
Can apply anytime (no specific window) |
|
Approval Rate for Indians |
High (India enjoys special bilateral relations) |
Note: The visa requirements vary depending on the country's embassy, the applicant's location, profession, special cases, and specific requirements. So it is recommended to consult with a Visa expert to avoid visa rejection or delay.
Yes, Indian citizens require a valid Bangladesh tourist visa to enter Bangladesh for tourism, business, or short-term visits. Despite India and Bangladesh sharing a border and having strong diplomatic relations, Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has emerged as an increasingly popular destination for Indian travelers, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and affordability. According to recent tourism data, Bangladesh welcomes over 200,000 Indian visitors annually, with numbers projected to grow by 15-20% in 2025-2026.
What makes Bangladesh special for Indian travelers:
Understanding the different visa categories helps you apply for the correct type based on your travel purpose.
Purpose: Tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends or family, attending cultural events
Key Features:
Single Entry Tourist Visa:
Multiple Entry Tourist Visa:
Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, corporate visits
Key Features:
Purpose: Visiting family members in Bangladesh
Key Features:
Purpose: Pursuing education in Bangladesh
Key Features:
Purpose: Working in Bangladesh
Key Features:
Note: This guide focuses primarily on the Bangladesh Tourist Visa, which is the most relevant for Indian travellers planning vacations.
Meeting all documentation requirements is critical for visa approval. The good news is that Bangladesh has a high approval rate for Indian applicants due to strong bilateral relations. Proper documentation ensures a smooth application process.
Requirements:
Expert Tip: If your passport is expiring within 6 months of your travel date, consider renewing it before applying to avoid complications.
Requirements:
Information Required in the Form:
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Specifications:
Technical Requirements:
Where to Get Photos:
Acceptable Documents (Choose One):
Requirements:
Requirements:
Requirements:
Note: Vaccination requirements may change. Check the official Bangladesh visa portal (www.visa.gov.bd) for the latest health requirements before applying.
What to Include:
Sample Itinerary Format:
Day 1: Arrival in Dhaka - Check-in at Hotel ABC, explore Lalbagh Fort
Day 2: Dhaka - Visit Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace), National Museum
Day 3: Dhaka to Sylhet - Travel by bus/train, check-in at hotel
Day 4: Sylhet - Visit tea gardens, Jaflong
Day 5: Sylhet to Cox's Bazar - Travel by bus
Day 6: Cox's Bazar - Beach exploration, local market
Day 7: Cox's Bazar to Dhaka - Return journey
Day 8: Departure from Dhaka
Acceptable Documents:
Important: Bookings should cover your entire stay in Bangladesh.
Expert Tip: Many hotels and booking platforms offer free cancellation options. Book accommodations that can be cancelled without penalty until you receive your visa approval.
Requirements:
Important Distinction: DO NOT purchase non-refundable tickets before visa approval. A flight reservation or itinerary is sufficient (not a paid ticket).
Services for Flight Reservations:
Requirements:
Bank Statement Requirements:
Calculation Example:
For a 10-day trip: ₹50,000 (₹5,000 per day) minimum recommended balance
Expert Tip: Maintain a balance of at least ₹50,000-₹1 lakh in your account for a 7-10 day trip to demonstrate financial stability.
For Employed Applicants:
For Self-Employed/Business Owners:
For Students:
For Retired Individuals:
Purpose: A personal letter explaining your travel plans and intent to return to India
What to Include:
Sample Cover Letter Structure:
To,
The Visa Officer
Bangladesh High Commission
New Delhi
Subject: Application for Bangladesh Tourist Visa
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Name], holder of Indian Passport No. [Passport Number], am writing to apply for a Bangladesh Tourist Visa for the period [Start Date] to [End Date].
Purpose of Visit:
I plan to visit Bangladesh for tourism purposes to explore the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical sites of your country. I am particularly interested in visiting [mention specific places like Sundarbans, Cox's Bazar, Dhaka, etc.].
Travel Itinerary:
[Provide detailed day-by-day itinerary]
Financial Means:
I have sufficient financial means to support my trip, as evidenced by my bank statements showing a balance of ₹[amount]. I am employed at [Company Name] with a monthly salary of ₹[amount].
Ties to India:
I have strong ties to India through my employment at [Company Name], where I have been working for [number] years. I also own property in [location] and have family responsibilities in India.
Intent to Return:
I confirm my intent to return to India upon completion of my trip and will strictly adhere to the visa conditions.
I have attached comprehensive documentation to support my application and am available for any additional information or clarification you may require.
Thank you for considering my application.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
[Date]
The best news: Bangladesh offers FREE tourist visas for Indian citizens!
Applicant Category | Visa Fee |
Adults (All ages) | FREE (₹0) |
Children (All ages) | FREE (₹0) |
Bangladesh offers visa-free or heavily discounted visas to Indian citizens as part of strong bilateral relations between the two countries. This is a special privilege that reflects the historical, cultural, and diplomatic ties between India and Bangladesh.
While the visa itself is free, you may incur other costs:
Expense | Estimated Cost (INR) |
Passport Photos | ₹50-₹200 |
Document Photocopying | ₹50-₹100 |
Travel to High Commission | Varies by city |
Flight Reservation Service (if needed) | ₹500-₹1,500 |
Travel Insurance (optional but recommended) | ₹500-₹2,000 |
Total Additional Costs | ₹1,100-₹3,800 |
Since there's no visa fee for Indians, you don't need to make any payment at the High Commission. However, if you're using third-party services like Atlys or VisaHQ, they may charge service fees (₹500-₹2,000).
Follow this detailed process to ensure a smooth application experience.
Timeline: Start this step at least 2-3 weeks before your intended travel date.
Use the complete checklist provided in the Requirements section:
Timeline: Start gathering documents at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date.
Online Application Process:
Important: The system will automatically generate a PDF with a barcode on page 4. This barcode is essential for your physical submission.
Expert Tip: Save your application ID and password in a safe place. You'll need them to track your application status.
Locate Your Nearest High Commission/Consulate:
Bangladesh High Commission, New Delhi
Bangladesh Deputy High Commission, Mumbai
Bangladesh Visa Application Centre, Kolkata
Bangladesh Visa Application Centre, Siliguri
What to Bring to the High Commission:
At the High Commission:
Duration: The entire process at the High Commission typically takes 15-30 minutes.
Expert Tips for Submission:
Online Tracking:
Status Updates:
SMS/Email Updates:
Collection Options:
Option 1: In-Person Collection
Option 2: Courier Delivery (if available)
What to Check Upon Receiving Your Passport:
If There Are Errors:
For Short-Stay Tourist Visa (Single Entry):
Important Notes:
Factors that can speed up processing:
Factors that can delay processing:
Recommended Timeline:
Peak Season Considerations:
Online Tracking:
Helpline Support:
What If Processing Takes Longer Than Expected?
If your application is taking longer than the standard 5 working days:
Address: Bangladesh High Commission, 12 Niti Marg, New Delhi - 110001, India
Contact:
Office Hours:
Visa Services:
Address: Joly Maker Bungalow No. 08, Opposite World Trade Center Gate No. 06, Cuffe Parade, Mumbai - 400005, India
Contact:
Office Hours:
Visa Services:
Address: 1st Floor, Plot No. 15 (Infinium Digi Space), CP Block, Sector 5, Salt Lake, Kolkata - 700091, India
Contact:
Office Hours:
Jurisdiction: West Bengal and surrounding areas
Address: Sonali Bank White House 304/3, Sevoke Road, Siliguri - 734001, India
Contact:
Office Hours:
Jurisdiction: Siliguri and surrounding areas
Why It Happens: Applicants rush through the application process or misunderstand requirements
Consequences: Application rejection, need to reapply
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens: Using old photos or photos taken at home
Consequences: Application rejection, need to resubmit
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens: Typos, name variations, or outdated information
Consequences: Application rejection, suspicion of false information
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens: Using old bank statements, expired employment letters, or outdated vaccination certificates
Consequences: Application rejection
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens: Rushing through the form or not reading instructions carefully
Consequences: Form rejection, need to resubmit
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens: Overconfidence or pressure from travel plans
Consequences: Financial loss if visa is rejected
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens: Attempting to hide information or exaggerate financial means
Consequences: Permanent visa ban, blacklisting, legal action
How to Avoid:
Why It Happens: Assuming everything is correct without verification
Consequences: Entry denial at the border, travel disruption
How to Avoid:
Why Visit: The Sundarbans is the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's home to the endangered Bengal Tiger and offers a unique ecosystem experience.
Must-Do Activities:
Best Time to Visit: November-February (cool and dry weather)
Distance from Dhaka: 100 km (3-4 hours by road)
Indian Traveler Tip: Book tours through reputable operators. Tiger sightings are not guaranteed but the experience is worthwhile regardless.
Why Visit: Cox's Bazar boasts a 120 km long sandy beach, making it one of the world's longest unbroken beaches. It's perfect for relaxation, water sports, and beach activities.
Must-Do Activities:
Best Time to Visit: October-March (pleasant weather)
Distance from Dhaka: 400 km (6-7 hours by bus or flight)
Indian Traveler Tip: Cox's Bazar is very affordable. Budget hotels and restaurants offer excellent value for money.
Why Visit: Dhaka is the cultural and historical heart of Bangladesh, offering museums, historical sites, and vibrant street life.
Must-See Attractions:
Best Time to Visit: November-February
Distance from Airport: 20 km from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
Indian Traveler Tip: Dhaka can be chaotic and crowded. Hire a local guide for better navigation and cultural insights.
Why Visit: Sylhet is famous for its tea gardens, natural springs, and scenic landscapes. It's a paradise for nature lovers.
Must-Do Activities:
Best Time to Visit: October-March
Distance from Dhaka: 250 km (4-5 hours by bus or flight)
Indian Traveler Tip: Sylhet is less touristy than other destinations, offering authentic experiences and warm hospitality.
Why Visit: Chittagong is Bangladesh's second-largest city, offering historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.
Must-See Attractions:
Best Time to Visit: October-March
Distance from Dhaka: 250 km (4-5 hours by bus or flight)
Indian Traveler Tip: Chittagong offers a mix of urban and natural attractions, making it ideal for diverse interests.
Why Visit: Barisal is known for its waterways, rivers, and floating markets. It's often called the "Venice of Bangladesh."
Must-Do Activities:
Best Time to Visit: November-February
Distance from Dhaka: 250 km (5-6 hours by bus or boat)
Indian Traveler Tip: Barisal is less crowded and offers authentic experiences of rural Bangladesh.
Why Visit: Khulna is the gateway to the Sundarbans and offers historical sites and natural beauty.
Must-See Attractions:
Best Time to Visit: November-February
Distance from Dhaka: 350 km (6-7 hours by bus)
Indian Traveler Tip: Khulna is ideal for combining city exploration with Sundarbans adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Dhaka
Day 2: Dhaka Exploration
Day 3: Dhaka to Sylhet
Day 4: Sylhet Tea Gardens
Day 5: Sylhet to Cox's Bazar
Day 6: Cox's Bazar Beach Activities
Day 7: Return to Dhaka and Departure
Budget Estimate for 7 Days (Per Person):
Obtaining a Bangladesh tourist visa for Indians in 2025-2026 is a straightforward process, especially given that the visa is completely free for Indian citizens. By following this comprehensive guide and ensuring you have all required documentation, you can secure your visa quickly and efficiently.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Visa is FREE for Indian citizens - no visa fee required
✅ Fast Processing - 3-5 working days standard processing time
✅ Simple Requirements - Minimal documentation compared to other countries
✅ Strong Bilateral Relations - India-Bangladesh relations ensure smooth visa approvals
✅ Diverse Attractions - From Sundarbans to Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh offers unique experiences
✅ Affordable Travel - Excellent value for money compared to other destinations
✅ Accessible Locations - High Commissions in major Indian cities
Final Tips:
Bangladesh awaits you with its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm people. With proper planning and this comprehensive guide, your Bangladesh visa application will be smooth and successful.
Safe travels and enjoy your Bangladeshi adventure!
Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Bangladesh government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Last Updated: December 2025
Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide has been compiled based on extensive research of official government sources, verified travel information, and real experiences of Indian travellers who have successfully obtained Bangladesh f industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.
To extend your tourist visa, there is a formal procedure that is to be followed. You can first apply online for the extension or visit the Department of Immigration in Bangladesh. Your request will be processed after the payment of the extra fee and you will be granted an extension up to 30 days ahead of your existing validity.
After your visa has expired, you are not allowed to stay in the country any longer. If you are caught with an expired visa, you will have to pay the fine as asked by the Immigration. If you have to stay in the country longer, you will have to apply for the extension of the visa. You can get the extension of the visa by applying online as well. Although, the extension must be applied for before the visa expires.
A medical test is carried out in order to make sure that the candidate is fit for the journey. However, this medical test is not necessarily carried out for the tourist visa as it is a short-stay visa and the process is mainly mandated for long-term visas like a resident permit or work visa. There is no specialised medical test for the Bangladesh tourist visa.
No, you cannot convert the tourist visa to Bangladesh into a work visa. If you require a work visa, you need to apply for the same differently. However, when you get a work visa within the validity of your existing tourist visa or visitor visa, the existing visa will get cancelled once you get the work visa.
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