Once seen as a symbol of opportunity, the Bangladeshi passport is now facing unprecedented restrictions as more countries tighten visa rules, leaving travelers stranded and frustrated.
Rising Barriers to Entry
Even nations that traditionally offered visa-on-arrival are increasingly turning Bangladeshis away at airports. Tourism-driven destinations such as Nepal, Maldives, and Sri Lanka have denied entry despite official policies allowing on-arrival visas under certain conditions.
In Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, visa approvals have become harder to secure, with longer processing times, higher rejection rates, and reduced facilities. Many travelers who do obtain visas are still being “offloaded” at immigration checkpoints and sent back home.
Formerly Easy Destinations Now Restrictive
Indonesia, once a visa-on-arrival haven, has imposed stricter requirements, demanding additional documents and higher fees without guaranteeing approval. Meanwhile, India suspended most visa services on August 5, 2024, issuing only limited medical visas and even those are frequently rejected for minor errors.
In the Middle East, countries including Dubai and Abu Dhabi have also suspended new visa issuance for Bangladeshis, further shrinking travel options.
Why the Crackdown?
Migration experts point to visa misuse and illegal immigration as key reasons. Many Bangladeshis reportedly overstay tourist visas in Southeast Asia or the Gulf, working illegally until caught and deported. This pattern has eroded trust in Bangladeshi passports, prompting governments to impose tougher restrictions.
A Shrinking Window of Mobility
With more countries tightening entry rules, the Bangladeshi passport is losing credibility on the global stage. For ordinary travelers, students, and workers, the result is mounting uncertainty, higher costs, and fewer opportunities abroad.
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