Bangladesh has a growing economy and is an attractive destination for foreign professionals seeking employment. To legally work in Bangladesh, foreign nationals must obtain a work visa, commonly known as an E Visa or E2 Visa. This guide provides comprehensive information on the application process, required documents, validity, and other key aspects of the Bangladesh work visa.

Types of Work Visas in Bangladesh

The primary work visa for foreign professionals in Bangladesh is the E2 Visa, which allows individuals to work for a company, organization, or NGO registered in Bangladesh.

Who Needs a Work Visa?

1. A work visa is required for foreign nationals who:
2. Are employed by a Bangladeshi-registered company.
3. Work for an NGO registered with the NGO Affairs Bureau.
4. Are hired by an industrial or business organization approved by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).
5. Hold an employment contract with a government-approved organization.

Validity & Duration

1. Initial validity: The first E2 visa is generally issued for 6 months with multiple entries.
2. Extension: The visa can be extended based on the work permit’s validity, usually up to 2 years.
3. Residence Permit: Once in Bangladesh, foreign employees must apply for a work permit and register with immigration authorities if they intend to stay long-term.

Work Visa Application Process

The process of obtaining a Bangladesh work visa consists of several steps:

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

Before applying for a work visa, the applicant must have a confirmed employment offer from a registered company or organization in Bangladesh.

Step 2: Obtain a Work Permit

The employer must apply for a work permit from BIDA (Bangladesh Investment Development Authority) or the NGO Affairs Bureau, depending on the sector of employment. The work permit is a mandatory document for visa approval.

Step 3: Submit Visa Application

The work visa application must be submitted to the Bangladesh Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country.

Step 4: Processing & Approval

The visa processing time typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the applicant’s nationality and documentation.

Required Documents for a Bangladesh Work Visa

Applicants must submit the following documents:

1. Completed visa application form
2. Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
3. Recent passport-sized photographs
4. Employment contract or job offer letter from the Bangladeshi employer
5. Company registration documents
6. Work permit from BIDA or NGO Affairs Bureau
7. Recommendation letter from the employer
8. Tax identification number (TIN) (if applicable)
9. Proof of professional qualifications (if required)

Post-Arrival Requirements

After arriving in Bangladesh, foreign employees must:

1. Register with the Department of Immigration and Passports.
2. Apply for a Residence Permit if staying beyond 6 months.
3. Renew the work visa before expiration if needed.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work visa in Bangladesh involves securing employment, obtaining a work permit, and completing the visa application process. Ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate can help avoid delays. If you are planning to work in Bangladesh, it’s advisable to consult with your employer and the respective authorities to ensure a smooth process.