Safety notice, last checked November 2026
The US State Department rates Bangladesh Level 2, “Exercise increased caution”, and rates the Chittagong Hill Tracts (Khagrachari, Rangamati and Bandarban), the refugee camp areas near Cox’s Bazar and the areas along the Myanmar border Level 4, “Do not travel”. The UK government advises against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
The UK government also says you must give the authorities 10 days’ notice if you plan to go. It also says you may need permission to visit refugee areas in Ukhia and Teknaf. Read the US advisory and the UK travel advice before you apply.
Last checked: November 2026
Most visitors need a visa for Bangladesh. Citizens of many countries can apply online through the official e-visa portal, and some can get a visa on arrival at Dhaka airport, but officers issue those at their discretion. Your passport needs at least two blank pages, and the UK government says it must be valid for at least six months after your visa starts.
Who Needs a Visa for Bangladesh?
Rules depend on your passport. The UK government says British citizens need a visa for stays of up to three months, unless they hold a “no visa required” stamp.
- Citizens of e-visa countries: apply on evisa.gov.bd. The portal shows which nationalities qualify, so check yours before you pay anything.
- Citizens eligible for visa on arrival: you may be able to pre-register online and apply at the airport. The UK government says visas on arrival are single entry, valid for 15 to 30 days, and not guaranteed.
- People of Bangladeshi origin: some can apply for a “no visa required” stamp. The UK government notes that British nationals of Bangladeshi origin may be eligible.
- Everyone else: apply through a Bangladeshi embassy, high commission or consulate.
These are examples, not a full list. Confirm your own route with the Bangladeshi mission in your country, because rules and eligible lists change.
How to Apply
- Check your nationality on the official e-visa site.
- Prepare your passport scan, a photo and your accommodation and travel details.
- Pay the fee on the portal. Fees and processing times change, so confirm them there and not on third-party sites.
- Print the approval and carry it with your passport.
If you plan to use Bangladesh as a hub to visit other countries, the UK government says to get a multiple-entry visa. For visa on arrival, you need a return ticket and proof of funds, according to the same source. You can look up the Bangladeshi High Commission’s visa guidance as an example of an official embassy page.
Arrival Card and Border Checks
Bangladesh has introduced online arrival and departure registration for foreign visitors. The UK government says you may need to complete an electronic arrival card before you enter and an electronic departure card before you leave.
At the border, you may be asked for a return or onward ticket, confirmation of your accommodation and your contact details. Make sure you get an entry stamp, because immigration officers check it when you leave and you could be fined for overstaying.
Passport Rules
- At least two blank pages and no damage.
- Validity of at least six months after the date your visa starts, according to the UK government.
- No lost or stolen passports. You can be denied entry.
Check these details with your airline before you fly, because airlines can refuse boarding.
Health Entry Requirements
The UK government says you must show a yellow fever certificate if you arrive from a country with a risk of transmission, and a polio vaccine certificate in certain circumstances. See TravelHealthPro’s Bangladesh guide for current health advice.
Extensions and Overstaying
If you want to stay longer, apply to the Department of Immigration and Passports at dip.gov.bd before your permitted stay ends. Don’t overstay. Officers can fine visitors who stay beyond their visa dates.
Customs and Money
Bangladesh has strict rules on goods you can take in and out. Declare anything that may be prohibited or taxed, and check the customs website. You may need to declare foreign currency or taka, depending on the amount. ATMs are available in most urban areas, but there are fewer in rural areas.
Safety Notes
- Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings. Both governments warn that they can turn violent quickly.
- The UK government says same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Bangladesh.
- Women travelling alone may face harassment. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night.
- The UK government also warns about the risk of methanol poisoning from illegally made alcohol.
Decision Guide
- Choose the e-visa if your nationality is on the official list and you want certainty before you fly.
- Choose visa on arrival only if you’re eligible, you can show a return ticket and funds, and you accept that it isn’t guaranteed.
- Choose an embassy application if your country isn’t on the e-visa list or your case is unusual.
Common Mistakes
- Using an unofficial visa website.
- Arriving with a passport valid for less than six months after the visa start date.
- Forgetting the return ticket, accommodation proof or arrival card.
- Planning a visit to a restricted area without checking the notice rules.
Quick Checklist
- Check eligibility on the official portal.
- Print your visa approval and booking confirmations.
- Complete the electronic arrival card if required.
- Re-read both government advisories close to departure.
Bangladesh Visa FAQs
Can I get a visa on arrival in Bangladesh?
Some nationalities can, at Dhaka airport, but it isn’t guaranteed and requires a return ticket and proof of funds. Apply for an e-visa in advance if you’re eligible.
How long can I stay?
The UK government says British visitors can stay up to three months with a visa, while visa on arrival is single entry and valid for 15 to 30 days. Your visa sticker or approval sets the final limit.
Do I need a yellow fever certificate?
Only if you arrive from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. A polio vaccine certificate may be needed in certain circumstances too.
Can I extend my visa?
Yes, through the Department of Immigration and Passports. Apply before your stay ends and carry your documents with you.
Once your entry documents are sorted, our guide to getting around Bangladesh explains how to travel between cities by train, bus and domestic flight.