Work permits and visas in Bangladesh: An employer’s guide

Companies looking to hire or relocate employees to Bangladesh need to make sure foreign nationals have the proper work permit and visa under local immigration laws. Employers also need to stay on top of local labor and tax laws to pay and manage team members in Bangladesh. 

In this article, Remote walks you through right-to-work checks, and how to get a work permit and visa for your employee to work in Bangladesh. 

See also: The complete employer's guide to hiring in Bangladesh

Work authorization check in Bangladesh

All foreign nationals planning to work in Bangladesh are generally required to obtain both a valid work visa and a work permit before starting employment. A residence permit alone does not grant the right to work under Bangladeshi immigration regulations.

Tourist or short-term visitor visas do not grant employment rights in Bangladesh. Only individuals with a valid work visa and corresponding work permit issued by the Department of Immigration and Passports, the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), or the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) are authorized to work. Employers must also secure security clearance from relevant ministries as part of a right-to-work check.

Do non-citizens need a work visa or work permit in Bangladesh?

Yes. All non-citizens who intend to work in Bangladesh must secure both a work visa and a work permit before beginning employment.

The work visa provides legal entry into Bangladesh for employment purposes, while the work permit grants the right to perform work. Both are mandatory, and they must be applied for in coordination with the sponsoring employer.

Foreign nationals who work without a valid visa and permit risk deportation and blacklisting, and employers face significant financial penalties.

Types of work permits in Bangladesh

Foreign nationals cannot begin employment in Bangladesh with a visa alone. In addition to securing the correct visa, they must also obtain a work permit issued by the appropriate Bangladeshi authorities. The type of permit required depends on the nature of the work and the organization involved.

Work permit through the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA)

Most expatriates working in the private sector must apply for their work permit through BIDA. This includes employees of local companies, joint ventures, and multinational corporations operating in Bangladesh. Employers must submit the application on the employee’s behalf, and the permit is generally tied to the specific job role and organization.

Work permit through the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA)

Foreigners employed by companies located within an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) must secure their work permit through BEPZA. This permit authorizes employment only within EPZ-based entities and cannot be transferred to non-EPZ organizations without a new application.

EPZs in Bangladesh are specialized industrial areas designed primarily for export-focused manufacturing. These zones offer a favorable environment with streamlined administration, duty-free operations, and infrastructure, to attract both local and foreign investment.

Work permit through other ministries or agencies

Some roles require approval from specific government bodies. For example, employment in semi-government institutions, autonomous organizations, or NGOs may involve permits issued in collaboration with the relevant line ministry. In each case, the employer remains responsible for filing the application and ensuring the employee’s compliance.

Work permits are typically valid for the duration of the employment contract and can be renewed upon extension of the role. Any change of employer, position, or industry requires a new application, as permits are not transferable.

Types of work visas in Bangladesh

There are several categories of visas that allow foreigners to live and work in Bangladesh:

Business Visa

A business visa is intended for professionals who want to conduct business activities in Bangladesh. It is typically valid for six months and can be renewed every six months for up to three years. Holders may attend meetings, explore partnerships, or set up companies, but they are not allowed to take up formal employment.

Employment Visa

The employment visa is the primary route for foreign nationals hired by Bangladeshi companies or organizations. It allows multiple entries and is issued in collaboration with authorities such as BIDA or BEPZA. The visa is linked to the employment contract and must be renewed in line with the job’s duration.

Investment Visa

An investment visa is designed for individuals planning to invest in Bangladesh. Initially valid for one year, it allows stays of up to three months per visit, with annual renewals available. After five years of continuous investment, the visa holder may become eligible for permanent residency. This type of visa is most suitable for entrepreneurs and long-term investors.

How to get a work permit for Bangladesh

Getting a work permit in Bangladesh is employer-driven, which means that the hiring company in Bangladesh is responsible for submitting the application for the foreign employee.

The authority that issues the permit depends on the employer’s location and industry: BIDA for most private-sector organizations, or BEPZA for companies based in an Export Processing Zone.

Application steps for a work permit in Bangladesh

The employer applies online through the relevant authority’s portal (BIDA or BEPZA). The application includes a completed form, supporting company documents, and employee details. Usually, a security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs is required before final approval.

Applicants typically need to provide:

• A valid employment contract or appointment letter
• The employer’s trade license or registration certificate
• A copy of the employee’s passport and recent photographs
• Endorsement from the relevant ministry (if required for the sector)
• Proof of payment of the government fee
  
  

Once submitted, the application is reviewed by the authority and processed in coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs. If approved, the work permit is issued and linked directly to the sponsoring employer and job role.

Work permit validity and renewal

Work permits are usually granted for one year and can be renewed annually. Usually the maximum period of stay on a work permit is five years. Renewal applications must be filed before the existing permit expires, and the employer must continue to demonstrate the necessity of employing a foreign national in the role.

Important considerations on work permits in Bangladesh

Work permits in Bangladesh are employer-specific, and non-transferable. If a foreign employee changes jobs or employers, a new work permit must be obtained. Permits also do not automatically grant residency status; the employee must apply for a proper employment visa after securing the permit to enter and reside in Bangladesh legally.

How to get an employment visa in Bangladesh

After a work permit has been approved by the relevant authority, the next step is to apply for an employment visa. This visa is issued by a Bangladesh Embassy or Bangladesh High Commission in the applicant’s home country and allows the foreign national to legally enter and reside in Bangladesh for work purposes. The application must be supported by the sponsoring employer and tied to the approved work permit.

Application steps for a work visa in Bangladesh

The applicant completes the official visa application form, either online through the embassy’s portal or in paper format. Applicants then book an appointment at the nearest Bangladesh Embassy, Bangladesh High Commission, or Visa Application Center to submit their documents and biometric data if required.

Typical requirements include:

• Completed visa application form (online or paper)
• Original passport with at least six months of validity and blank visa pages
• Two recent passport-sized photographs or a compliant digital photo
• Copy of the approved work permit issued by BIDA, BEPZA, or the relevant ministry
• Appointment or employment letter from the Bangladeshi employer
• Endorsement letter from the concerned ministry (if applicable)
• Proof of payment of the visa application fee

Processing time and validity

Employment visas are generally issued within two to three weeks, though processing times can vary depending on the embassy and country of application. Once issued, the visa must be used to enter Bangladesh within its validity window.

The visa is typically granted for the duration of the employment contract, often one year initially, and can be extended or renewed as long as the individual continues to hold a valid work permit and employment contract. Employment visas are usually multiple-entry, allowing the employee to travel in and out of Bangladesh without losing their work authorization.

Key considerations on Bangladeshi work visas

It is important to note that the employment visa and the work permit are linked. A valid work permit is required before applying for the visa, and any change in employer or job role will require both a new permit and a new visa application. Working without either document is a violation of Bangladeshi immigration laws and can result in deportation and blacklisting.

Work permit and work visa fees in Bangladesh

The cost of obtaining an employment visa in Bangladesh depends on the applicant’s nationality and the embassy or high commission where the application is submitted. Visa fees are generally reciprocal, meaning they vary based on what Bangladesh citizens are charged for similar visas in the applicant’s home country.

Usually employment visa fees range from USD 160 to USD 200, though it can be higher or lower depending on bilateral agreements. Indian nationals are a notable exception, as they are often exempt from paying the standard employment visa fee under reciprocal arrangements.

Applicants must pay the visa fee at the time of submitting the visa application form to the Bangladesh Embassy, Bangladesh High Commission, or Visa Application Center. Proof of payment is required as part of the supporting documents.

It is important to note that this fee covers only the visa itself. Additional costs may include government fees for the work permit application through BIDA or BEPZA, as well as fees for renewals or extensions.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, applicants should check directly with the Bangladesh High Commission or Embassy in their home country, as fees can change based on nationality and government policy.

Digital nomad visa in Bangladesh

At present, Bangladesh does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. Digital nomads and remote workers who intend to work from Bangladesh must secure an employment visa or an investment visa, supported by the appropriate work permit. Working without proper authorization, even if the employer is outside Bangladesh, can result in fines, deportation, and blacklisting.

How Remote can help with work visas in Bangladesh

To hire or relocate employees to Bangladesh, you need to have your own entity in the country. Employers also need to navigate immigration laws to avoid potential penalties, as well as handle payroll and benefits according to local tax laws.

That's why Remote’s Employer of Record service is invaluable. We act as the legal employer in Bangladesh on your company’s behalf. Remote helps you stay compliant with local labor and tax laws, so you can onboard your employees in a matter of days to save time and resources. 

If you already have an entity in Bangladesh, Remote can help with international employee relocation with case-by-case immigration assessments, and guidance on work permits and visas in Bangladesh.

To learn more about the processes involved in relocating international employees, download Remote's Relocation Guide, or contact our Relocation team today.