Observers say the resumption of tourist visas could be an important step towards rebuilding confidence and strengthening bilateral relations
Bangladesh is set to fully resume tourist visa services for Indian travellers from Monday, following an improvement in the security situation after the country’s recent elections. A senior official from the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that diplomatic missions across India will restart issuing tourist visas more widely.
The services will be available through the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and consulates in cities such as Guwahati, Agartala, Mumbai and Kolkata. While most visa categories had continued during the suspension period, tourist visas were largely halted due to security concerns. However, visas were still granted in urgent cases, according to the official.
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The temporary suspension was introduced around the national election held on 12 February, with missions instructed to stop issuing tourist visas from 15 January to 15 February
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Similar restrictions were also applied in neighbouring countries such as Bhutan and Nepal
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Following a review of the overall situation, Bangladesh has decided to reopen all visa services, including tourism, from all locations
Officials noted that while the government did not formally announce the suspension, the resumption will expand the scope of tourist visa issuance from Monday. This move is expected to encourage travel and people-to-people exchanges between the two neighbouring countries.
India, however, has not yet fully restored tourist visa services for Bangladeshi citizens, although some other visa categories remain available.
Relations between India and Bangladesh had cooled during the period of the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus. However, ties are showing signs of improvement following the formation of the new government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman after the February election.
