Bangladesh offers a visa on arrival (VOA) to eligible travelers from approximately 50 countries — including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, all European nations, and major Asian economies. The VOA is valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 30 days, extendable for one additional 30-day period.
The fee is $51 USD (all taxes included), payable in cash only at the Sonali Bank counter inside the airport. Cards are not accepted. You must carry a minimum of $500 USD or equivalent, a valid return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
What is a Bangladesh Visa on Arrival?
A visa on arrival (VOA) is a travel document issued upon your arrival at the destination country — rather than applying at an embassy beforehand. Bangladesh's VOA facility is designed to simplify entry for travelers from eligible countries visiting for tourism, business, investment, or official government work.
Unlike a standard advance visa — which is typically a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 60 months — the Bangladesh VOA is a single-entry visa valid for a maximum of 30 days. It can be extended once at the Department of Immigration and Passports in Dhaka for an additional 30 days.
Even if you fully qualify, the Bangladesh VOA is issued entirely at the discretion of the immigration officer at the port of entry. Approval is not automatic. Carry all documents and answer officer questions clearly and confidently.
Who is Eligible for Bangladesh Visa on Arrival?
The Bangladesh government grants visa on arrival privileges to several categories of travelers. The most common is nationality-based eligibility for tourism, business, or investment. Here is the complete breakdown as of May 2026, per official Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs guidance.
Category 1 — Eligible countries (tourism, business, investment, official duty)
Citizens of the following countries may obtain a Bangladesh visa on arrival for official duty, tourism, business, or investment purposes:
| Region | Eligible Countries | Purposes Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| North America | United States, Canada | Tourism, Business, Investment, Official Duty |
| Europe (all) | All European countries including UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Poland, and all others | Tourism, Business, Investment, Official Duty |
| Asia-Pacific | China, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand | Tourism, Business, Investment, Official Duty |
| Middle East | United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain | Tourism, Business, Investment, Official Duty |
| Other | Russian Federation, Turkey, Egypt | Tourism, Business, Investment, Official Duty |
Category 2 — Other eligible groups
| Category | VOA Available? | What You Need to Prove |
|---|---|---|
| No Bangladesh embassy in home country | ✓ Yes | Must demonstrate the necessity of travel and absence of a Bangladesh mission in your country |
| Third-country travelers (traveling from a country with no Bangladesh mission) | ✓ Yes | Verify validity of travel purpose; immigration officer's satisfaction required |
| Foreign diplomats & UN staff | ✓ Yes | Diplomatic or official passport; official documentation from organization |
| Foreign nationals of Bangladeshi origin (and their spouse/children) | ✓ Yes | Proof of Bangladeshi origin: previous Bangladesh passport, citizenship certificate, or NVR documentation |
| Foreign investors & traders | ✓ Yes | Invitation letter from Bangladeshi company + certificate from BIDA, BEPZA, BGMEA, or FBCCI. Host must notify immigration in advance. |
| Indian citizens | ✗ No | Must obtain visa in advance. Free of charge at Bangladesh High Commission in India. |
Required Documents for Bangladesh Visa on Arrival
Prepare these documents before you board your flight. Immigration officers have turned travelers away for missing items — especially the return ticket and accommodation proof.
- Valid passport— minimum 6 months validity from your date of arrival, with at least 2 blank pages for the visa stamp
- $51 USD in cash— exact change preferred. USD, GBP, or EUR accepted. Cards are never accepted.
- Minimum $500 USD— or equivalent in foreign currency (cash or credit card), to show financial sufficiency. Not required for government-related travel.
- Confirmed return or onward ticket— printed copy strongly recommended. Immigration will keep a copy.
- Proof of accommodation— hotel booking confirmation OR an invitation letter from a host in Bangladesh (with their name, address, and phone number)
- Business travelers:Invitation letter from the Bangladeshi company, on company letterhead
- Investors:Recommendation letter from BIDA, BEPZA, BGMEA, FBCCI, or relevant government ministry; inviting company must pre-notify immigration
- Completed arrival card— handed out on your flight or available at the VOA desk
You do not need to bring a passport photo for a Bangladesh visa on arrival. Unlike many other countries, Bangladesh does not require a separate photo at the VOA counter.
Bangladesh Visa on Arrival Fee & Payment
The Bangladesh visa on arrival fee is $51 USD per person, all taxes included (or the equivalent amount in GBP or EUR). This is a fixed government fee with no hidden charges.
| Payment detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fee (single entry, 30 days) | $51 USD (or equivalent EUR/GBP) |
| Taxes | Included in $51 — no additional charges |
| Accepted currencies | USD, GBP, EUR |
| Payment method | Cash only — no cards, no bank transfer |
| Where to pay | Sonali Bank Limited counter at the VOA area (inside the airport, before immigration) |
| Change available? | Exact change recommended. Currency exchange is available at the same counter. |
| ATMs near VOA counter | No — airport ATMs dispense Bangladeshi Taka only. Bring USD/GBP/EUR from home. |
There are no card machines at the Bangladesh VOA counter and no ATMs that dispense foreign currency near it. If you don't have $51 USD (or equivalent) in cash, you cannot pay for your visa. Prepare before you fly.
Entry Points: Which Airports & Land Borders Offer VOA?
International airports (24/7 VOA service)
| Airport | City | VOA Available | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) | Dhaka | ✓ Yes | 24/7 |
| Shah Amanat International Airport | Chittagong | ✓ Yes | Per flight schedule |
| Osmani International Airport | Sylhet | ✓ Yes | Per flight schedule |
Land border crossings (VOA available — verify in advance)
| Bangladesh side | India side | District (BD) | State (India) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benapole | Petrapole | Jessore | West Bengal |
| Darshana | Gede | Chuadanga | West Bengal |
| Sonamasjid | Mahadipur | Chapai Nawabganj | West Bengal |
| Banglabandha | Fulbari | Panchagarh | West Bengal |
| Burimari | Changrabandha | Lalmonirhat | West Bengal |
| Tamabil | Dauki | Sylhet | Meghalaya |
| Akhaura | Ramnagar | Brahmanbaria | Tripura |
While VOA is legally available at these land crossings, not all have consistent staffing or infrastructure. Contact the immigration office at your specific border before traveling. For the most reliable VOA experience, use Dhaka airport (HSIA).
Passengers traveling on the Maitree Express, Bandhan Express, or Mitali Express (Bangladesh–India train routes)cannot get a visa on arrival. You must obtain a visa in advance before boarding the train.
Step-by-Step Visa on Arrival Process at Dhaka Airport (HSIA)
Here is exactly what happens from the moment you land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. The entire process typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on flight arrival volume.
Follow signs to the Arrivals area
After landing, follow Arrivals signs and descend the stairs or escalator. The VOA area is on the right side of the immigration hall, clearly signposted before you reach the main immigration queues. Do not pass through the main immigration lines first.
Pay the visa fee at Sonali Bank counter
Inside the VOA area, find the Sonali Bank Limited counter and pay the $51 USD fee in cash. Currency exchange is available at the same counter if needed. You'll receive a printed bank receipt — keep it safe.
Complete the arrival card / visa application form
You should have received an arrival card on the plane — this doubles as your visa application form. If you didn't get one, blank forms are available at the VOA desk. Fill it out completely and accurately, including your accommodation address in Bangladesh.
Present documents at the VOA counter
Join the VOA queue and present your: bank receipt, completed arrival card, passport, printed return ticket, and accommodation proof. An immigration officer will review your documents and may ask about your visit purpose and itinerary. Answer clearly and confidently.
Receive your VOA stamp
Once approved, your passport is stamped with the VOA. The stamp specifies your allowed duration (up to 30 days) and confirms you cannot work. Verify the dates on the stamp before leaving the counter.
Proceed through immigration clearance
With your VOA stamp, go to the immigration desks. Use the far-left lane labeled for airline crew and diplomats — this is also the designated VOA entry lane, avoiding the longer regular queues.
Collect luggage & clear customs
Proceed to baggage claim and collect your bags. Match your luggage tag at the exit. Your bags will be scanned at customs before you exit to the arrivals hall.
The VOA process is quickest late at night or early morning when fewer international flights land simultaneously. Peak congestion typically occurs between 8 AM and 3 PM when multiple flights from the Middle East and Southeast Asia arrive together.
VOA vs Advance Visa: Which Should You Choose?
Both options get you into Bangladesh, but they serve different travel needs. Here is a direct comparison to help you decide:
| Factor | ✈️ Visa on Arrival (VOA) | 🏛️ Advance Visa (Embassy) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $51 USD (single entry) | $160 USD (US) · £105 (UK) · $150 AUD (AU) |
| Entry type | Single entry only | Single or multiple entry |
| Duration | Up to 30 days | Up to 60 months (5 years) |
| Approval certainty | Not guaranteed — officer's discretion | Confirmed before you travel |
| Processing time | Instant (30 min – 2 hours on arrival) | Several days to weeks |
| Effort required | Minimal — no pre-application | Requires embassy visit or online application |
| Best for | Short trips, last-minute travel, single visit | Long stays, repeat visits, business relationships |
| Risk | Could be denied at the port | No arrival-day risk |
If you're visiting Bangladesh for 30 days or less and your trip is flexible, the VOA is convenient and cost-effective. For planned business trips, stays longer than 30 days, or if you want certainty, apply for an advance visa through the nearest Bangladesh embassy or high commission.
Country-Specific Visa on Arrival Guides
🇺🇸United States
The US Embassy in Dhaka recommends obtaining a visa in advance for certainty, as VOA is at the immigration officer's sole discretion. US citizens of Bangladeshi origin may qualify for a No Visa Required (NVR) seal — contact your nearest Bangladesh consulate.
🇬🇧United Kingdom
UK citizens can pay in British Pounds at the Sonali Bank counter. The advance visa from Bangladesh High Commission in London offers single or multiple entry options valid 3 months to 5 years.
🇦🇺Australia
Australian citizens are confirmed eligible per the Bangladesh High Commission in Canberra. Pay in USD or EUR at the airport — AUD is not accepted at the VOA counter.
🇮🇳India
Indian citizens cannot get a VOA at airports or land borders. Apply in advance at the Bangladesh High Commission or nearest consulate in India. The visa is free. Allow several working days for processing.
How to Extend Your Bangladesh Visa on Arrival:
A Bangladesh VOA can be extended for one additional period of up to 30 days — giving you a maximum total stay of 60 days. Extensions are processed at the Department of Immigration and Passports (DIP) in Dhaka.
DIP office details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Office name | Department of Immigration and Passports (DIP) |
| Address | Shere-E-Bangla Nagar, West Agargaon, Dhaka City (adjacent to the passport office) |
| When to apply | No earlier than 7 days before your VOA expires |
| Processing | Multiple visits may be required — plan for 2–4 working days minimum |
The extension process is not quick — multiple DIP office visits are typical. If you know in advance that you need more than 30 days, apply for an advance visa with longer validity before you travel. It will save you considerable time and stress.
Overstay Fines: What Happens If You Stay Too Long?
Overstaying a Bangladesh VOA results in financial penalties. Bangladesh is relatively lenient about short overstays, but the fines accumulate and you will also need to pay a new advance visa fee before you can depart.
| Overstay period | Fine per day | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1–15 | 200 BDT per day | Approximately $1.80 USD per day |
| Day 16 onwards | 500 BDT per day | Approximately $4.50 USD per day |
| New visa required | Advance visa fee applies | US citizens: ~$160 | UK citizens: ~£105 | Australian citizens: ~$150 AUD |
Repeated overstays can result in future entry bans. Always track your visa expiry date. If you need more time legitimately, use the official DIP extension process.
Practical Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Essential tips for a smooth VOA experience
- Print everything.Hotel bookings, return tickets, and invitation letters should be in printed hard copy. Digital copies on your phone may not be accepted.
- Prepare cash before departure.No foreign currency ATMs near the VOA counter. Bring $51 USD + additional funds.
- Confirm eligibility.Not all nationalities qualify. Check the table in Section 2 or contact the nearest Bangladesh embassy.
- Use a real, verifiable hotel address.The accommodation address on your form is checked. Use a recognized hotel that international travelers frequent.
- Arrive calm and prepared.Answer immigration officer questions directly and confidently. Nervousness can invite additional scrutiny.
- Use the VOA entry lane.Once your visa is stamped, use the far-left immigration lane (crew/diplomats/VOA). Skip the main queue.
- Verify your stamp dates.Before leaving the counter, check that the visa stamp reflects the correct allowed duration.
- Track your expiry.Set a calendar reminder one week before your visa expires, giving yourself time to extend or depart.
Contact numbers for immigration assistance
| Office | Phone number |
|---|---|
| OC Immigration — Dhaka (HSIA) | +880-2-8914226 · +88-01320005902 |
| Addl. SP Immigration — Dhaka (HSIA) | +88-01320005376 |
| SSP Immigration — Dhaka (HSIA) | +88-01320005111 |
| SSP Immigration — Sylhet Airport | +88-01320005107 |
| SSP Immigration — Chittagong Airport | +88-01320005108 |
| OC — Benapole Land Port | +88-01320006412 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Official sources used in this guide:
- Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Visa on Arrival policy: manchester.mofa.gov.bd
- Bangladesh High Commission, Canberra — VOA eligibility: canberra.mofa.gov.bd
- Bangladesh Embassy, Copenhagen — VOA detailed requirements: copenhagen.mofa.gov.bd
- US Embassy in Bangladesh — Visa guidance for US citizens: bd.usembassy.gov
- Wikipedia — Visa policy of Bangladesh (IATA Timatic data): en.wikipedia.org
- Department of Immigration and Passports, Bangladesh: dip.gov.bd
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