Dhaka Entry Requirements
Visa, immigration, and customs information
Visa Requirements
Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.
Bangladesh has a relatively restrictive visa policy, with most foreign nationals requiring advance authorization to enter the country. Visa options include e-Visa, visa-on-arrival for select nationalities, and traditional embassy-issued visas.
Very limited visa-free access to Bangladesh
Visa-free entry is extremely limited. Citizens of most countries, including all Western nations, require a visa. SAARC country citizens may have simplified procedures but most still require visas.
Available for citizens of select countries arriving at Dhaka airport
Cost: USD 50-51 (varies by nationality and visa type)
Visa on arrival is subject to immigration officer approval. Pre-arranged e-Visa is recommended to avoid potential complications or long waits. Business travelers may need additional documentation.
Online visa application system available for most nationalities
Cost: USD 51-100 depending on visa type and nationality (plus processing fees)
e-Visa is strongly recommended over visa on arrival for guaranteed entry. Print the e-Visa approval and present it at immigration. Different categories available: tourist, business, conference, medical, and others.
Traditional visa application through Bangladesh diplomatic missions
Required for nationalities not eligible for visa on arrival or e-Visa, and for long-term stays, work permits, student visas, or complex cases. Some nationalities may face additional scrutiny or longer processing times.
Arrival Process
Upon arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, travelers proceed through immigration, baggage claim, and customs. The process is generally efficient, though queues can be lengthy during peak arrival times. Having all documents organized and readily accessible will expedite your entry.
Documents to Have Ready
Tips for Smooth Entry
Customs & Duty-Free
Bangladesh customs regulations are enforced at all ports of entry. Travelers must declare items exceeding duty-free allowances and are prohibited from bringing certain items into the country. Customs officers may inspect luggage, and penalties for non-declaration or attempting to import prohibited items can be severe, including fines, confiscation, and potential legal action.
Prohibited Items
- Narcotics and illegal drugs - Extremely strict penalties including death penalty for drug trafficking
- Firearms, ammunition, and explosives - Unless with prior authorization from Bangladesh authorities
- Pornographic materials - Including magazines, videos, and digital content
- Materials considered anti-Islamic or offensive to religious sentiments
- Counterfeit currency and goods
- Ivory and products made from endangered species
- Gold and silver bullion (without proper authorization)
- Wireless transmitting equipment without proper license
- Satellite phones (require special permission)
- Drones and UAVs without prior approval from Civil Aviation Authority
- Indian currency notes (except small amounts for immediate use)
- Live animals and plants without proper permits and health certificates
Restricted Items
- Prescription medications - Bring reasonable quantities with doctor's prescription and original packaging. Controlled substances require special authorization
- Professional camera and video equipment - May require temporary import documentation or carnet for commercial equipment
- Antiques and cultural artifacts - Export of Bangladeshi antiques is prohibited; import may require documentation
- Radio communication equipment - Requires license from Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission
- Certain chemicals and laboratory equipment - Require import permits
- Large quantities of electronics - May be questioned as commercial import and subject to duty
- Certain food items - Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products may be restricted or require health certificates
Health Requirements
Bangladesh has specific health requirements for entry, primarily focused on preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Travelers should ensure they meet all vaccination requirements and consider recommended immunizations for their protection.
Required Vaccinations
- Yellow Fever - Required if arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. Certificate must be presented at health screening. Valid 10 days after vaccination and lasts for life.
- Polio - Travelers from polio-endemic countries may need to show proof of polio vaccination within the past 12 months to 4 weeks before travel.
Recommended Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food and water
- Typhoid - Recommended for most travelers, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
- Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who might have exposure to blood or body fluids
- Japanese Encephalitis - Recommended for travelers spending extended periods in rural areas, especially during transmission season
- Rabies - Consider for travelers with extensive outdoor activities, working with animals, or limited access to medical care
- Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza
Health Insurance
Health insurance with international coverage is strongly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Medical facilities in Dhaka vary in quality, and serious medical conditions may require evacuation to nearby countries like Thailand or Singapore. Ensure your insurance covers emergency medical evacuation. Medical costs must often be paid upfront in cash. Keep all receipts for insurance claims.
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Special Situations
Additional requirements for specific circumstances.
Children must have their own passport and visa (same requirements as adults). Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing travel, including contact information. Single parents should carry the child's birth certificate. For adopted children, carry adoption papers. Some airlines and immigration officers may request these documents. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and may need additional documentation from immigration authorities.
Pets require an import permit from the Department of Livestock Services, Bangladesh, obtained before travel. Required documents: valid rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days old but not more than 12 months), veterinary health certificate issued within 7 days of travel, microchip identification, and original vaccination records. Pets must undergo quarantine inspection upon arrival. Some breeds may be restricted. Contact the Department of Livestock Services well in advance (at least 4-6 weeks) to arrange permits. Airlines have specific pet travel requirements - confirm with your carrier. Consider that Bangladesh has limited pet-friendly accommodations and veterinary services compared to Western countries.
Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration and Passports office in Dhaka (Segunbagicha location). Apply before your current visa expires - ideally 7-10 days in advance. Required documents: passport, current visa, application form, passport photos, proof of accommodation, financial means, and extension fee. Extensions are granted at immigration officer's discretion and typically for 1-2 months. For long-term stays, consider applying for appropriate visa category (business, student, work) before arrival. Work permits require employer sponsorship and separate approval from relevant authorities. Student visas require admission letter from recognized educational institution. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future entry bans.
Business visa required for conducting business activities, attending conferences, or meetings. Required documents: invitation letter from Bangladesh company or organization (on letterhead with details of visit purpose and duration), business registration documents of inviting company, applicant's company letter, and itinerary. Business visas can be single or multiple entry with validity from 3 months to 5 years depending on purpose and bilateral agreements. Business travelers should carry business cards, company documentation, and invitation letters even after receiving visa, as these may be requested at immigration. For extended business stays, consider applying for business visa with multiple entries rather than tourist visa.
Journalists, photographers, and film crews require special permission and appropriate visa category from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and/or Ministry of Information. Tourist visas do not permit journalistic activities. Apply well in advance (at least 4-6 weeks) through Bangladesh embassy/consulate with detailed information about assignment, locations to be visited, and purpose. Unauthorized journalistic activity can result in detention, deportation, and equipment confiscation. Documentary filmmakers need additional permissions from relevant ministries. Carry press credentials and authorization letters at all times when working.
Medical visa available for those seeking medical treatment in Bangladesh (though more commonly Bangladeshis travel abroad for treatment). Required documents: letter from recognized hospital/medical institution in Bangladesh confirming appointment and treatment plan, medical reports from home country, and proof of financial means to cover treatment. Medical attendant visa available for one accompanying person. Apply through Bangladesh embassy/consulate with medical documentation. Some hospitals may assist with visa invitation letters.
Volunteers and NGO workers require appropriate visa category and NGO Bureau clearance. Tourist visas do not permit volunteer work. Sponsoring organization must be registered with NGO Affairs Bureau and obtain clearance for foreign volunteers. Process can take several months. Required documents: invitation from registered NGO, NGO registration documents, detailed work plan, and police clearance from home country. Some organizations arrange volunteer visas through Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Working on tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and ban on re-entry.
Dual nationals with Bangladeshi citizenship must enter and exit Bangladesh on their Bangladeshi passport, even if they hold another nationality. Persons of Bangladeshi origin may be eligible for simplified visa procedures or no objection certificate (NOC). Former Bangladeshi citizens may need to provide documentation of citizenship renunciation. Bangladesh does not fully recognize dual citizenship for all purposes - consult with Bangladesh embassy about your specific situation. Entry/exit on wrong passport can cause complications.