India Set to Fully Resume Visa Services for Bangladeshis in Phases

Bangladesh and India are taking steps to fully restore visa operations between the two countries, signaling a positive shift in bilateral relations and cross-border mobility. According to recent developments, Bangladesh has already resumed visa issuance for Indian citizens across all categories, while India is preparing to gradually normalize its visa services for Bangladeshi nationals in the coming weeks.

A report published on May 2 by an Indian media outlet highlighted that visa normalization was a key topic during a recent visit by Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister to India. Officials from both sides have been actively working to streamline the process and restore services to pre-disruption levels.
 

At present, Bangladesh’s diplomatic missions in India, including the High Commission in New Delhi and consular offices in Kolkata, Agartala, Mumbai, and Chennai, are operating at full capacity. According to official data, more than 13,000 visas have been issued to Indian citizens over the past two months, covering categories such as business, tourism, medical treatment, and family visits.
 

On the other hand, India’s visa services for Bangladeshi citizens are still operating at a reduced level, estimated at around 15 to 20 percent of previous capacity. Priority is currently being given to medical and family-related visas, while other categories are expected to be gradually reinstated.
 

The slowdown in visa processing began last year due to security concerns, which led to significant disruptions in regular services. However, emergency visas, particularly for healthcare and urgent family needs, continued to be issued during this period.
 

Diplomatic engagements between the two countries have played a key role in accelerating the normalization process. Recent high-level visits, including that of Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to Dhaka, have further strengthened communication channels.

Officials are optimistic that with the expected arrival of a new Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, the visa process will regain full momentum. The phased reopening is expected to ease travel for thousands of people, including students, patients, businesspersons, and tourists.

The move is seen as a significant step toward restoring people-to-people connections and enhancing economic and cultural exchanges between Bangladesh and India.