Getting a Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Bangladesh is a convenient option for eligible travelers, but it's important to understand the specific requirements and procedures before you travel. The issuance of a VOA is at the discretion of the immigration officer at the port of entry, so it is always recommended to have a pre-arranged visa if possible.
Here is a detailed breakdown of how to get a VOA in Bangladesh:
1. Eligibility
Not all nationalities or travelers are eligible for a VOA. The following categories are generally eligible:
Citizens of specific countries: These countries are USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, China, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, UAE, KSA, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Turkey, Brunei UK and any country from Europe.
Citizens from countries without a Bangladesh diplomatic mission: If you are a citizen of a country where Bangladesh does not have an embassy or consulate, you may be eligible for a VOA.
Foreign investors and businesspersons: Those traveling for business or investment purposes may qualify for a VOA, especially with a letter of invitation from a relevant authority in Bangladesh (e.g., Board of Investment, BEPZA).
Foreigners of Bangladeshi origin: Foreign citizens of Bangladeshi origin, along with their spouses and children, can be granted a VOA upon providing proof of their origin.
Officials of foreign missions and UN organizations: Staff and officials of foreign embassies and UN organizations in Bangladesh are eligible for a VOA.
2. Required Documents and Information
To be prepared for your VOA application upon arrival, you should have the following:
A valid passport: Your passport must have a minimum of six months of validity remaining and at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.
Return ticket: You must have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket to show proof of a short-term stay.
Proof of funds: You need to show that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Bangladesh.
This can be a minimum of USD 500 in cash or a credit card. This requirement is generally waived for those on government duty. Justification for your visit: You should have necessary documents to justify your purpose of travel. For tourists, this could be hotel bookings. For business travelers, an invitation letter from the concerned company in Bangladesh is required.
Address in Bangladesh: You must provide a complete address for where you will be staying in Bangladesh.
3. VOA Process at the Airport
The process for obtaining a VOA is straightforward, but it can be time-consuming due to potential queues.
Locate the VOA desk: Upon arrival at an international airport, such as Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, follow the signs to the immigration hall.
The Visa on Arrival desk is typically located near the immigration counters. Fill out the form: An immigration officer at the VOA desk will provide you with a form to fill out.
You may also be able to pre-register and apply online. Present your documents: Submit your completed form along with all the required documents (passport, return ticket, etc.) to the immigration officer.
Pay the fee: The VOA fee is typically USD 50 (plus tax), payable in foreign currency (US dollars, British Pounds, or Euros).
You will pay this fee at a designated bank counter, such as Sonali Bank, and receive a receipt. UN passport holders are exempt from the fee. Get the visa stamp: Once your documents and payment are verified, the immigration officer will stamp the VOA in your passport.
Proceed to immigration: After getting your VOA, you can proceed to the regular immigration counters to complete the final entry formalities.
Important Notes
Single-entry and short duration: The VOA is a single-entry visa and is valid for a maximum stay of 30 days.
If you need to stay longer, you can apply for an extension with the Department of Immigration and Passports, but this is not guaranteed and can be a lengthy process. Discretion of the officer: The final decision to grant a VOA rests solely with the immigration officer at the port of entry.
Business travel specifics: For business-related VOA, the inviting organization in Bangladesh should inform the immigration authorities in advance of your arrival. A letter of introduction from your home country's company and a letter of invitation from the host company in Bangladesh will be required.
Land ports: While VOA is legally available at land ports, the infrastructure might not be present at all of them.
It is highly recommended to confirm with the specific land port before your travel.
