Bangladesh

🇧🇩

Phone Code

+880

Capital

Dhaka

Population

170 Million

Native Name

Bangladesh

Region

Asia

Southern Asia

Timezone

Bangladesh Standard Time

UTC+06:00

On This Page

Money & CurrencyVisa OverviewVisa TypesImportant NotesTravel GuideEmbassies abroadEmbassies in countryAccredited missions

Bangladesh is a densely populated South Asian nation with rich cultural heritage, the world's longest natural beach at Cox's Bazar, and the world's largest mangrove forest in the Sundarbans. Dhaka, the bustling capital, features Mughal-era architecture, vibrant markets, and museums including Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil. Visitors are drawn to Cox's Bazar beach, Sundarbans tiger reserve, tea plantations of Sylhet, historic mosques at Bagerhat, and the riverine landscapes of Bengal delta. Bangladesh offers visa on arrival at its main international airports for many nationalities; travelers should confirm current entry options before departure, as electronic visa availability has varied.

Visa Requirements for Bangladesh

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Bangladesh. Visa on arrival is available at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka and Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram for eligible nationalities, including US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and others, granted at the immigration officer's discretion for single-entry tourist or business stays with a valid passport, return or onward ticket, and proof of funds and accommodation (business visitors typically need an invitation letter). An electronic visa has operated through the evisa.gov.bd portal, but its availability has varied — confirm the current status before relying on it. Travelers who are not eligible for visa on arrival, or who need longer stays, work permits, or study visas, should apply in advance through a Bangladesh diplomatic mission. Some SAARC nationals enjoy visa-free entry for short stays.

Common Visa Types

E-Visa (Tourist/Business)

Typically up to 30 days; the evisa.gov.bd portal's availability has varied, so confirm current status — otherwise use visa on arrival or apply through a Bangladesh mission.

For tourism, business meetings, conferences, or visiting friends and family for eligible nationalities.

Visa on Arrival

30 days for tourism or business; fees payable at airport immigration counter; passport and documents required.

For eligible nationalities arriving at Dhaka or Chattogram airports without advance visa.

SAARC Visa-Free Entry

Varies by bilateral agreement; typically 30-90 days; check specific requirements for your nationality.

For citizens of SAARC countries (India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Afghanistan) for short visits.

Work Visa / Long-Term Visa

Aligned with work permit or study duration; requires sponsorship from employer or educational institution.

For employment with work permit from Bangladesh Investment Development Authority or study at Bangladeshi institutions.

Important Travel Information

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended departure from Bangladesh with blank pages for visa stamps.

E-visa approval must be printed and presented at port of entry along with passport and supporting documents.

Visa on arrival is available only at Dhaka and Chattogram international airports, not at land borders. Apply for visa in advance if entering by land.

Travel Guide

Bangladesh is one of South Asia's most underestimated travel destinations, offering a rare combination of riverine culture, ecological scale, and layered history. Dhaka provides an intense introduction with Mughal-era landmarks, dense market districts, and one of the world's busiest urban riverfronts. Beyond the capital, the country opens into very different landscapes: the Sundarbans mangrove system (UNESCO), historic mosque architecture in Bagerhat (UNESCO), tea-garden hills in Sylhet, and the long Bay of Bengal coastline around Cox's Bazar. Bangladesh works best for travelers who value cultural immersion and regional contrasts over checklist tourism. Distances can be moderate but travel speeds vary by season and infrastructure, so well-paced itineraries are essential. For visitors interested in delta geographies, living river economies, and Bengali cultural traditions, Bangladesh offers depth that is difficult to find elsewhere in the region.

Ways to Experience This Destination

Delta and River Culture

River ports, ferries, and water-linked settlements reveal Bangladesh's everyday life across one of the world's largest delta systems.

Sundarbans and Wildlife

Mangrove routes in the Sundarbans for biodiversity-focused travel, including estuarine landscapes and guided eco-cruises.

History and UNESCO Heritage

Bagerhat, Paharpur, and Dhaka's historic core for travelers interested in Islamic, Buddhist, and Mughal-era heritage layers.

Coastal and Beach Travel

Cox's Bazar and surrounding coastlines for Bay of Bengal itineraries, seasonal beach stays, and marine-facing travel routes.

Tea Country and Hill Landscapes

Sylhet tea gardens and nearby upland zones for slower-paced routes focused on landscapes and regional cultural variation.

Money & Currency

Money & Currency
৳

Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)

Currency code: BDT

Practical Money Tips

Bangladeshi Taka — Exchange Only at Banks or Authorised Money Changers

The Bangladeshi Taka (BDT, ৳) is the official currency and is non-convertible outside Bangladesh. Exchange USD, EUR, or GBP only at Bangladesh Bank-licensed exchange houses, or at arrival counters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka). Street changers operate illegally. Keep all exchange receipts — hotels and some merchants may ask for them, and you'll need them to reconvert Taka on departure.

ATMs Available in Dhaka and Major Cities — Limited in Rural Areas

Dutch-Bangla Bank (DBBL) has the widest ATM network across Bangladesh, including rural branches. BRAC Bank, Prime Bank, and City Bank ATMs are common in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet. International Visa and Mastercard are accepted at DBBL and a handful of other networks. Outside major cities — in the Sundarbans region, Cox's Bazar hinterland, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts — ATMs are scarce. Withdraw in cities before venturing into rural Bangladesh.

bKash Mobile Money is Dominant — Physical Cards Less Common Outside Hotels

Bangladesh has a highly developed mobile financial services sector dominated by bKash (65M+ users), Nagad, and Rocket. As a foreign visitor, you cannot typically open a bKash account — but your accommodation or local fixer/guide can use it. Foreign Visa and Mastercard work at upscale hotels, airline offices, and larger restaurants in Dhaka. Most shops, markets, rickshaws, and restaurants operate cash-only. Apple Pay and Google Pay are not widely functional.

One of South Asia's Most Affordable Destinations

Bangladesh is exceptionally affordable for international visitors. Budget guesthouse in Dhaka: BDT 500–1,500/night ($5–14). Local dal-bhat meal: BDT 50–150 ($0.50–1.40). Mid-range restaurant: BDT 300–800 ($3–7) per person. A comfortable mid-range trip runs BDT 2,000–4,000/day ($18–37). Carry small denominations — change for BDT 500/1,000 notes can be difficult at small vendors.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions

Need help checking visa requirements or applying for your trip to Bangladesh?

Apply for Bangladesh visa