Bangladesh Cabinet Committee Finalizes Draft of Visa Policy 2026

The government of Bangladesh has officially formed a cabinet committee, chaired by Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, to review and finalize the 'Visa Policy 2026'. This initiative follows a gazette notification issued by the Cabinet Division, signaling a comprehensive overhaul of the nation's current entry framework. The committee, which includes representatives from the ministries of home affairs, foreign affairs, and civil aviation and tourism, is tasked with refining the draft policy to better align with the country's current economic and security objectives.

The primary goal of this policy revision is to simplify the visa application process for foreign investors, tourists, and business professionals. By consolidating various visa categories and potentially introducing more efficient digital processing, the government aims to increase foreign direct investment and revitalize the tourism sector. The committee is expected to submit the finalized draft to the cabinet for approval during its first meeting in November 2026, marking a significant shift in how Bangladesh manages its borders and international arrivals.

This policy update will impact all international travellers, including business delegates, tourists, and foreign investors planning to visit Bangladesh. It is particularly relevant for those currently relying on existing visa-on-arrival or long-term business visa schemes that may be subject to modification.

Makutet analysis suggests that the 2026 Visa Policy will likely prioritize digital transformation, potentially moving toward a more robust e-visa system to compete with regional neighbors. We anticipate that the finalized policy will offer more flexible entry options for business travellers, though it may also introduce more rigorous security vetting for certain nationalities to balance openness with national security concerns.