Visa Cuts Hit Travellers Hard

Visa restrictions are causing difficulties for Bangladeshi travellers and workers. Many Southeast Asian nations have suspended visas for Bangladeshi citizens due to allegations of overstaying. The UAE, Oman, and Malaysia have also restricted migrant workers from Bangladesh due to various issues.

Thailand is a popular destination for Bangladeshi tourists, with 15-20% of travellers visiting the country for medical tourism, shopping, and leisure. However, the e-visa system in Thailand has complicated the process for Bangladeshi citizens. Malaysia hosts 10-15% of Bangladeshi tourists, while Singapore receives 5-10%.

The Middle East, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, accounts for 10-15% of Bangladesh’s outbound tourism. Europe attracts 5-8% of Bangladeshi tourists, and other Asian countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and China each draw 5-8%. North America and Australia each receive 2-5% of Bangladeshi tourists.

The Indian High Commission has informed Bangladeshi authorities that they are facing a shortage of personnel, which is why fewer visa applications are being accepted. This has affected the number of visas being issued to Bangladeshi citizens. The situation is expected to be normalized soon.