Bangladesh Visa for Indian Citizens: Complete 2025-2026 Guide

Key Facts at a Glance:

Yes, Indian citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Bangladesh. Despite the strong bilateral relationship and shared history between India and Bangladesh, a valid visa is mandatory for all Indian passport holders, regardless of the purpose of visit.

Important Points to Remember:

✅ Visa is mandatory for all types of travel (tourism, business, medical, family visit)
✅ No visa-free entry for regular Indian passport holders
✅ Diplomatic/Official passport holders may be eligible for visa on arrival under specific bilateral agreements
✅ Must apply in advance – visa on arrival is NOT available for Indian tourists

Special Exemptions:

According to the bilateral agreement between India and Bangladesh, holders of Diplomatic Passports and Official Passports are eligible for visa on arrival when entering by air, road, or sea (but not by train). However, this exemption does NOT apply to regular/ordinary passport holders.

One of the most significant advantages for Indian citizens is that Bangladesh visa fees are completely waived under the bilateral agreement between India and Bangladesh. However, service charges and processing fees still apply.

Official Visa Fee Structure:

Additional Costs to Consider:

1. VFS Service Charges: ₹1,500-₹2,500 (if applying through VFS Global)
2. Courier Charges: ₹50-₹100 (for passport return)
3. Photo Studio: ₹50-₹200 (for passport-size photographs)
4. Document Attestation: ₹500-₹1,000 (if required)
5. Travel to Visa Centre: Variable (depending on location)

Important Notes:

✅ No government visa fee for Indian citizens
✅ Service charges are mandatory and non-refundable
✅ Payment methods: Demand Draft, Online Payment, or Cash (varies by centre)
✅ Fees subject to change – always verify current rates before applying
✅ Express processing available for urgent travel (additional charges apply)

Cost Comparison: Bangladesh vs. Neighboring Countries

For Indian citizens applying for business visas (6-month multiple entry):

• Bangladesh: ₹6,400-₹7,000
• Nepal: FREE (SAARC agreement)
• Sri Lanka: ₹3,900
• Myanmar: ₹4,500-₹5,000
• Thailand: ₹8,000-₹10,000

To ensure a smooth visa application process, Indian citizens must prepare the following documents carefully. Missing or incorrect documents are the primary reason for visa delays or rejections.

General Requirements for All Visa Categories:

1. Valid Passport

• Minimum Validity: 6 months from the date of application
• Blank Pages: At least 2 blank pages for visa stamp
• Condition: Must be in good condition, no damage or tampering
• Old Passports: Must be submitted if you have previous Bangladesh visas

2. Completed Online Visa Application Form

• Portal: www.visa.gov.bd
• Format: Must be filled online and printed
• Signature: Original signature required (no digital signatures)
• Accuracy: All information must match passport details exactly
• Address in Bangladesh: Mandatory field (hotel address or host address)

3. Passport-Size Photographs

• Quantity: 2 copies
• Size: 45mm x 35mm (specific to Bangladesh visa)
• Background: White background (mandatory)
• Recency: Taken within last 6 months
• Specifications: Full face, no glasses, ears visible, no uniform
• Quality: Clear, high-resolution, professional studio photo

4. Proof of Identity

• Aadhaar Card: Photocopy required
• Alternative: Voter ID, PAN Card, or Driving License

5. Vaccination Certificate

• Type: WHO-approved double vaccination certificate
• Vaccines: COVID-19 vaccination proof (if applicable)
• Format: Original or certified copy

6. Financial Proof

• Bank Statements: Last 3-6 months
• Minimum Balance: Sufficient funds to cover stay (recommended: ₹50,000+)
• Alternative: Sponsorship letter with sponsor's financial documents
• ITR: Income Tax Returns (for business visa)

Category-Specific Requirements:

For Tourist Visa:

• Travel itinerary or confirmed flight tickets
• Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from host
• Leave approval letter from employer (if employed)
• Purpose of visit statement

For Business Visa:

• Invitation letter from Bangladeshi company (on company letterhead)
• Letter from Indian employer stating purpose and duration
• Trade license of Bangladeshi host company
• Income tax certificate and TIN of host company
• Business card and company profile
• Previous business visa copies (if applicable)

For Family Visit:

• Invitation letter from family member in Bangladesh
• Proof of relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate)
• Copy of host's passport/NID/birth certificate
• Host's address proof in Bangladesh

For Medical Visa:

• Medical documents and diagnosis reports
• Appointment letter from Bangladeshi hospital
• Doctor's recommendation letter
• Proof of payment or financial arrangement with hospital

Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to apply for your Bangladesh visa successfully:

Step 1: Complete Online Application (www.visa.gov.bd)

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to https://visa.gov.bd/
2. Read Instructions: Review all guidelines carefully
3. Select Visa Type: Choose appropriate visa category
4. Fill Application Form:
• Personal information (as per passport)
• Passport details
• Travel information
• Address in Bangladesh (mandatory)
• Contact details (email and phone)
• Purpose of visit
5. Upload Digital Photo: JPEG format, maximum 300KB (optional but recommended)
6. Review Information: Double-check all entries for accuracy
7. Submit Application: Click submit after verification
8. Save Application: Note down application reference number
9. Print Application Form: Print the completed form (required for submission)

Technical Requirements:

• Browser: Internet Explorer 9.0+, Mozilla Firefox 3.5+, Chrome
• PDF Reader: Adobe Acrobat Reader 8.0 or higher
• Printer: Ink-jet or laser printer for form printing

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

1. Organize Documents: Arrange all documents in order
2. Make Photocopies: Keep copies of all documents
3. Get Photographs: Obtain two passport-size photos (45mm x 35mm, white background)
4. Verify Passport: Ensure passport validity and blank pages
5. Prepare Payment: Arrange service fee payment (DD/online/cash as per centre)

Step 3: Submit Application at Visa Centre

Bangladesh Visa Application Centres (BVAC) in India:

Major Centres:

1. Kolkata
• Address: 1st Floor, Plot No. 15 (Infinium Digi Space), CP Block, Sector 5, Salt Lake, Kolkata - 700091
• Phone: +91-7289000071
• Email: info@bdvisa.com
2. Siliguri
• Address: Goldighi Municipality Mall, Shop No 105, 106 & 107, Near Premtola Point, Central Road, Silchar, Assam 788001
• Form Filling Centre: Shop No. 30 & 31, 2nd Floor International Market, Sevok Road
3. Guwahati
• Address: Exotica Greens, 4th Floor, RG Baruah Road, Guwahati, Assam - 781005
4. Bongaigaon
• Address: Available at BVAC website
5. Agartala
• Address: Bangladesh Deputy High Commission

Submission Process:

1. Visit the nearest BVAC during working hours
2. Submit printed application form with all documents
3. Pay service charges (cash/DD/online as per centre)
4. Collect acknowledgment receipt with tracking number
5. Note down expected processing time

Working Hours: Typically 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM (Monday to Friday)
Closed: Weekends and public holidays (both Indian and Bangladeshi)

Step 4: Biometric Enrollment (If Required)

• Some applicants may be called for biometric data collection
• Fingerprints and photograph will be taken at the visa centre
• Mandatory for first-time applicants or as per discretion

Step 5: Track Application Status

1. Online Tracking: Use application reference number on visa.gov.bd
2. Email Updates: Check registered email for status updates
3. Phone Inquiry: Contact visa centre with tracking number
4. SMS Alerts: Some centres provide SMS updates

Step 6: Collect Passport with Visa

Collection Methods:

1. In-Person Collection:
• Visit the same visa centre where you submitted
• Bring acknowledgment receipt and ID proof
• Verify visa details before leaving
2. Courier Delivery:
• Available at additional cost (₹50-₹100)
• Requires courier consent form
• Delivery within 2-3 days after approval
3. Authorized Representative:
• Can collect on your behalf
• Requires authorization letter and representative's ID

Visa Verification Checklist: ✅ Check your name spelling
✅ Verify passport number
✅ Confirm visa validity dates
✅ Check visa type and entries allowed
✅ Ensure visa stamp is clear and legible
✅ Report any errors immediately

Is E-Visa Available for Indians?

No, Bangladesh has not yet implemented an e-visa system for Indian citizens or any other nationality. Despite several announcements and plans, the fully electronic visa system remains unavailable as of December 2025.

Current Online System:

Bangladesh currently operates a hybrid system called the MRV (Machine Readable Visa) Portal:

• Online Application: Fill and submit form online at visa.gov.bd
• Physical Submission: Print form and submit with documents at visa centre
• Physical Visa: Visa is stamped as a sticker in passport
• No Electronic Approval: Cannot obtain visa entirely online

What About Visa on Arrival?

Visa on Arrival is NOT available for Indian citizens. This facility is only available for nationals of specific countries including:

✅ United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
✅ European Union countries
✅ United Kingdom
✅ Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea
✅ UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain
✅ China, Russia, Turkey, Egypt, Brunei

Indians must obtain visa in advance from Bangladesh High Commission or authorized visa centres in India.

Future E-Visa Plans:

The Bangladesh government has announced plans to introduce a full e-visa system, but no official launch date has been confirmed. When implemented, it is expected to:

• Allow complete online application and approval
• Eliminate physical document submission
• Provide electronic visa (e-visa) via email
• Reduce processing time significantly
• Enable online payment

Current Status: Under development, no confirmed launch date

Can Indians Get Visa on Arrival in Bangladesh?

No, Indian citizens are NOT eligible for Visa on Arrival (VoA) in Bangladesh for regular/ordinary passports.

Who Can Get Visa on Arrival?

Visa on Arrival is available for:

1. Eligible Nationalities: Citizens of USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, EU countries, UK, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Turkey, Brunei, Russia, and China
2. Special Categories:
• Diplomatic/Official passport holders from India (for air, road, or sea entry)
• Bangladeshi origin foreign nationals and their spouses/children
• UN officials and staff of foreign diplomatic missions

Why Indians Cannot Get VoA:

Due to the bilateral agreement between India and Bangladesh, Indian citizens must obtain visas in advance through proper channels. This ensures:

• Better security screening
• Proper documentation verification
• Streamlined immigration process
• Reduced wait times at border/airport

Alternative for Indians:

✅ Apply in advance through Bangladesh Visa Application Centres
✅ Processing time: 5-14 working days
✅ Visa fee: FREE (only service charges apply)
✅ Validity: 180 days from issue date
✅ Stay: Up to 30 days per entry

Standard Processing Time:

Important Notes on Processing Time:

⏰ Working Days: Excludes weekends and public holidays
⏰ Reference Cases: May take longer if clearance required from Dhaka
⏰ Peak Season: Processing may be slower during holidays (Durga Puja, Eid, etc.)
⏰ Incomplete Documents: Will cause delays or rejection
⏰ First-Time Applicants: May require additional verification time

Visa Validity Explained:

Validity Period: The time frame during which you can enter Bangladesh (starts from date of issue, NOT from date of travel)

Example:

• Visa issued: January 1, 2025
• Validity: 180 days
• You can enter Bangladesh anytime between January 1 - June 30, 2025
• Once you enter, you can stay for maximum 30 days (for tourist visa)

Maximum Stay Duration:

• Tourist Visa: 30 days per entry
• Business Visa: 60 days per visit
• Extension: Possible through Department of Immigration and Passports, Bangladesh

Visa Extension in Bangladesh:

If you need to extend your stay:

1. Apply Before Expiry: At least 7 days before visa expires
2. Location: Department of Immigration and Passports, Dhaka
3. Requirements: Valid reason, local sponsor, police clearance
4. Extension Period: Up to 30 days additional (tourist), up to 3 years (business with proper documentation)
5. Fee: Applicable as per extension type

Avoid these common errors that lead to visa delays or rejections:

1. Incorrect Photo Specifications

❌ Mistake: Using standard Indian passport size (35mm x 45mm) instead of Bangladesh requirement (45mm x 35mm)
✅ Solution: Get photos specifically for Bangladesh visa with white background

2. Incomplete Online Application

❌ Mistake: Leaving mandatory fields blank, especially "Address in Bangladesh"
✅ Solution: Fill all fields accurately; use hotel address if no host

3. Insufficient Passport Validity

❌ Mistake: Applying with passport valid for less than 6 months
✅ Solution: Renew passport before applying if validity is less than 6 months

4. Missing Old Passports

❌ Mistake: Not submitting old passports with previous Bangladesh visas
✅ Solution: Always submit old passports if you have travel history to Bangladesh

5. Incorrect Visa Type Selection

❌ Mistake: Applying for tourist visa when purpose is business
✅ Solution: Choose correct visa category matching your purpose of visit

6. Inadequate Financial Proof

❌ Mistake: Submitting bank statements with insufficient balance
✅ Solution: Maintain minimum ₹50,000 balance for tourist visa

7. Missing Invitation Letters

❌ Mistake: Not providing proper invitation letter for business/family visit
✅ Solution: Obtain detailed invitation letter on letterhead with all required information

8. Unsigned Application Form

❌ Mistake: Forgetting to sign the printed application form
✅ Solution: Sign in original ink (no digital signatures)

9. Incorrect Service Fee Payment

❌ Mistake: Not paying service charges or paying incorrect amount
✅ Solution: Verify current service charges before payment

10. Last-Minute Application

❌ Mistake: Applying just before travel date
✅ Solution: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before intended travel

11. Not Tracking Application

❌ Mistake: Not following up on application status
✅ Solution: Regularly check status online and via email

12. Ignoring Visa Validity Dates

❌ Mistake: Confusing visa validity with stay duration
✅ Solution: Understand that validity is entry period, not stay duration

Before Applying:

1. Plan Ahead: Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date
2. Verify Requirements: Check latest requirements on official website
3. Organize Documents: Prepare all documents in advance
4. Check Passport: Ensure validity and blank pages
5. Get Correct Photos: Use Bangladesh-specific photo size (45mm x 35mm)

During Application:

1. Fill Carefully: Double-check all information in online form
2. Print Clearly: Use good quality printer for application form
3. Sign Original: Use original signature in ink
4. Arrange Documents: Keep documents in order as per checklist
5. Keep Copies: Make photocopies of all submitted documents

After Submission:

1. Save Receipt: Keep acknowledgment receipt safely
2. Track Status: Regularly check application status online
3. Be Available: Keep phone and email accessible for any queries
4. Plan Flexibly: Don't book non-refundable tickets until visa is approved
5. Verify Visa: Check all details on visa stamp before leaving centre

For Business Travelers:

1. Annual Visa: Consider 12-month multiple-entry visa for frequent visits (saves 60% cost)
2. Proper Invitation: Ensure invitation letter has all required details
3. Company Documents: Keep trade license and TIN certificate ready
4. Previous Visas: Submit copies of previous business visas
5. Extension Planning: If needed, apply for extension well in advance

Entry Requirements:

• Valid passport with Bangladesh visa
• Completed arrival card (provided on flight/at border)
• Customs declaration form
• Proof of accommodation
• Return/onward ticket
• Sufficient funds for stay

Customs Regulations:

Duty-Free Allowance:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco
• 2 liters of alcohol (for non-Muslims)
• Perfume for personal use
• Gifts up to BDT 10,000 value

Prohibited Items:

• Narcotics and drugs
• Firearms and ammunition (without permit)
• Pornographic material
• Indian currency above ₹25,000
• Gold and silver (without declaration)

Currency Regulations:

• Indian Rupees: Can carry up to ₹25,000
• Foreign Currency: No limit but must declare if exceeding USD 5,000
• Bangladeshi Taka: Can carry up to BDT 500

Health Requirements:

• Vaccination: WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccination (if applicable)
• Yellow Fever: Certificate required if arriving from endemic countries
• Malaria: Prophylaxis recommended for certain regions
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended

Contact Information:

Emergency Numbers in Bangladesh:

• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 199
• Fire Service: 199
• Tourist Police: +880-2-9513102

Indian High Commission in Dhaka:

• Address: Plot 120, Road 2, Baridhara, Dhaka 1212
• Phone: +880-2-55067800
• Email: hoc.dhaka@mea.gov.in
• Emergency: +880-1713398653

Obtaining a Bangladesh visa as an Indian citizen is a straightforward process when you have the right information and prepare your documents correctly. The key advantages for Indians include waived government visa fees and relatively quick processing times. By following this comprehensive guide, understanding the requirements, and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth visa application experience.

Remember to:

• Apply well in advance (3-4 weeks before travel)
• Choose the correct visa type for your purpose
• Prepare all documents as per specifications
• Use correct photo size (45mm x 35mm, white background)
• Track your application status regularly
• Verify all visa details before traveling

Bangladesh offers rich cultural experiences, historical sites, and warm hospitality. With your visa secured, you're ready to explore this beautiful neighboring country.

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 researched and compiled using official government sources, Bangladesh High Commission guidelines, and verified visa application centre information to provide accurate and up-to-date information for Indian travelers.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.

Q1: Is Bangladesh visa free for Indian citizens?

A: The government visa fee is waived for Indian citizens under the bilateral agreement. However, service charges of ₹825 (for tourist visa) or higher (for business visa) are applicable.

Q2: How long does it take to get a Bangladesh visa from India?

A: Standard processing time is 10-14 working days for tourist visas and 5-10 working days for business visas. Express processing (2-3 days) is available at additional cost.

Q3: Can I get a Bangladesh visa on arrival as an Indian citizen?

A: No, visa on arrival is not available for Indian citizens with regular passports. You must obtain a visa in advance from Bangladesh Visa Application Centres in India.

Q4: Is e-visa available for Bangladesh from India?

A: No, Bangladesh has not yet implemented a full e-visa system. The current process requires online application followed by physical document submission at visa centres.

Q5: What is the validity of a Bangladesh tourist visa for Indians?

A: A single-entry tourist visa is valid for 180 days from the date of issue, allowing a maximum stay of 30 days. Multiple-entry visas can be valid for 6 months to 1 year.

Q6: Can I extend my Bangladesh visa while in Bangladesh?

A: Yes, visa extensions are possible through the Department of Immigration and Passports in Dhaka. Apply at least 7 days before your visa expires with valid reasons and supporting documents.

Q7: What documents are required for a Bangladesh tourist visa?

A: Key documents include: valid passport (6 months validity), completed online application form, 2 passport photos (45mm x 35mm, white background), travel itinerary, hotel booking, Aadhaar card copy, and vaccination certificate.

Q8: How much bank balance is required for Bangladesh visa?

A: While there's no official minimum, it's recommended to maintain at least ₹50,000 in your bank account for a tourist visa to demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay.

Q9: Can I apply for a Bangladesh visa online completely?

A: No, the current system is hybrid. You fill the application online at visa.gov.bd, but must print and submit it physically with documents at a visa application centre.

Q10: What is the difference between visa validity and stay duration?

A: Visa validity is the period during which you can enter Bangladesh (e.g., 180 days from issue). Stay duration is how long you can remain in Bangladesh per entry (e.g., 30 days for tourist visa).

Q11: Do I need a return ticket to apply for a Bangladesh visa?

A: While not always mandatory, having a confirmed return ticket or travel itinerary strengthens your application and is highly recommended.

Q12: Can I work in Bangladesh on a tourist visa?

A: No, tourist visas are strictly for tourism purposes. For employment, you must obtain a work/employment visa with proper documentation from your Bangladeshi employer.

Q13: What happens if my visa application is rejected?

A: Visa rejections are rare if all documents are correct. If rejected, you'll receive a reason. Service charges are non-refundable. You can reapply after addressing the issues.

Q14: Can I enter Bangladesh by land border with a visa?

A: Yes, you can enter Bangladesh through authorized land border checkpoints (like Petrapole-Benapole, Agartala-Akhaura) with a valid visa.

Q15: Is travel insurance required for Bangladesh visa?

A: Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Q16: Can I apply for someone else's Bangladesh visa?

A: Yes, you can submit an application on behalf of someone else with a proper authorization letter. However, the applicant may be called for biometric enrollment or interview.

Q17: What is the photo size for Bangladesh visa?

A: The required photo size is 45mm x 35mm (width x height) with a white background, taken within the last 6 months.

Q18: How do I track my Bangladesh visa application?

A: Use your application reference number to track status on visa.gov.bd or contact the visa centre where you submitted your application.

Q19: Can I get a multiple-entry tourist visa for Bangladesh?

A: Yes, multiple-entry tourist visas are available with validity of 6 months to 1 year, allowing 30 days stay per visit.

Q20: What should I do if there's an error on my visa stamp?

A: Report any errors immediately to the visa centre before leaving. Errors in name, passport number, or dates must be corrected before travel.