Bangladeshi travellers are facing growing challenges in securing tourist visas across many countries in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and even parts of Europe. As of mid-2025, major visa restrictions, suspensions, and tighter entry requirements are affecting outbound tourism from Bangladesh. This article breaks down the current situation, highlights visa-free and visa-on-arrival destinations, and offers tips for safe and accessible international travel.
Tourist Visa Restrictions for Bangladeshis in 2025: What’s Changed?
At least 12 countries have suspended tourist visa issuance for Bangladeshi passport holders recently. Another dozen have slowed down their visa processing, imposed stricter conditions, or stopped processing altogether.
Countries That Have Suspended Tourist Visas for Bangladeshis
-
Vietnam
-
Laos
-
Egypt
-
Uzbekistan
-
Kazakhstan
These countries cited issues such as visa misuse, overstays, and undocumented immigration.
Countries with Tightened Visa Requirements
-
Thailand: Tourist visa slots have been halved. E-visa systems are facing frequent glitches.
-
Indonesia: Discontinued visa-on-arrival for Bangladeshis post-COVID.
-
India: Only granting visas for specific categories like medical or business travel.
-
Turkey, Romania, Croatia: Visa issuance has slowed significantly.
These new visa policies are impacting not just tourists but also workers, students, and business travelers.
Visa-Free Travel for Bangladeshi Passport Holders in 2025
According to the latest Henley Passport Index, Bangladeshis can travel to 21 countries visa-free, and 16 countries with visa on arrival.
Top Visa-Free Destinations for Bangladeshi Citizens (2025)
-
Bhutan
-
Jamaica
-
Dominica
-
Haiti
-
Gambia
-
Barbados
Visa-on-Arrival Countries for Bangladeshi Travelers
-
Nepal
-
Cambodia
-
Maldives
-
Bolivia
-
Samoa
-
Tanzania
-
Comoros
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) Required Destinations
-
Sri Lanka
-
Kenya
-
Seychelles
These destinations provide some relief for Bangladeshi tourists amid tightening visa rules elsewhere.
Tips for Bangladeshi Travellers in 2025
To ensure a smoother international travel experience, consider the following:
1. Choose Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival Countries
Opt for destinations that offer easy access without complex paperwork or long waiting periods.
2. Avoid High-Risk or Suspended Countries
Steer clear of countries like Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, where visa issuance is blocked or extremely delayed.
3. Apply for ETAs in Advance
For countries like Sri Lanka or Kenya, apply for an eTA well before your planned trip and ensure you use the official portals.
4. Avoid Middlemen
Use official channels to apply for visas. Visa misuse and scams have been a key reason behind current restrictions. Take help from trusted sources such as ShareTrip to experience a smooth transaction.
5. Monitor Updates from Embassies
Stay updated with travel alerts and visa policy changes through official embassy websites and the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry.
Choose Your Agent Wisely
The international travel landscape for Bangladeshi citizens is shifting rapidly. As of 2025, visa restrictions have increased across Asia and the Gulf region, but opportunities remain in visa-free and visa-on-arrival countries. By planning strategically and following official procedures, Bangladeshi travellers can still enjoy international tourism without unnecessary hassle. Contact us at visa@sharetrip.net to address any visa-related queries.