India remains one of the most popular destinations for Bangladeshi travelers, with thousands applying for visas every month for medical treatment, tourism, business, education, and family visits. Below is a comprehensive guide on the Indian visa application process for Bangladeshi citizens.
1. Types of Indian Visas for Bangladeshis
1.1. Tourist Visa
- For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting family/friends.
- Validity: Typically 6 months to 1 year, with multiple entries.
- Stay Duration: Up to 90 days per visit (subject to approval).
1.2. Medical Visa
- Issued to patients seeking treatment in India.
- Requires a recommendation from a recognized Bangladeshi hospital and an invitation from an Indian hospital.
- Validity: Usually up to 6 months, extendable in India if required.
1.3. Business Visa
- For trade, business meetings, and investment purposes.
- Requires an invitation letter from an Indian business entity.
- Validity: 1 year or more, with multiple entries.
1.4. Student Visa
- For Bangladeshi students enrolled in Indian universities.
- Requires proof of admission from an Indian institution.
- Validity: Depends on the duration of the course.
1.5. Employment Visa
- For professionals working in India.
- Requires an official job offer from an Indian company.
- Validity: Up to 1 year, extendable based on employment contract.
1.6. Conference Visa
- For those attending official conferences, seminars, or workshops.
- Requires an invitation from the organizing body in India.
- Validity: Short-term, usually for the event duration.
2. Indian Visa Application Process for Bangladeshis
Step 1: Online Application
- Visit the official Indian Visa Online Portal: https://indianvisa-bangladesh.nic.in.
- Fill out the visa application form with accurate details.
- Print the completed form and sign it.
Step 2: Pay Visa Fee (If Applicable)
- Some visa categories require fees, which can be paid through the SBI e-Pay system.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment at IVAC
- Register on the SBI e-Pay portal and book an appointment at the nearest Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) in Bangladesh.
- IVAC centers are located in Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Barishal, Rangpur, and Jessore.
Step 4: Submit Documents at IVAC
Applicants must personally visit the selected IVAC center with:
✅ Printed application form
✅ Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity & 2 blank pages)
✅ Recent passport-size photographs (2 copies, white background)
✅ Supporting documents (as per visa category)
✅ Visa fee payment receipt (if applicable)
Step 5: Visa Processing & Approval
- Processing time: 3 to 7 working days (may vary based on category).
- For medical emergencies, urgent visas may be processed faster.
- Track application status on the IVAC website.
Step 6: Collect Visa-Stamped Passport
- Once approved, applicants must collect their passport from the IVAC center where they applied.
3. Visa Fees for Bangladeshis
| Visa Type | Fee (BDT) | Validity | Entries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Varies | 6 months – 1 year | Multiple |
| Medical Visa | Varies | 6 months – 1 year | Multiple |
| Business Visa | Varies | 1 year or more | Multiple |
| Student Visa | Varies | Course Duration | Multiple |
| Employment Visa | Varies | Up to 1 year | Multiple |
Fees may change. Check the latest on IVAC’s website.
4. Required Documents (Category-Wise)
4.1. For Tourist Visa
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Printed & signed application form
- 2 passport-size photos (white background)
- Hotel booking or invitation letter (if visiting relatives)
- Bank statement (proof of financial capability)
4.2. For Medical Visa
- Referral letter from a Bangladeshi hospital
- Appointment confirmation from an Indian hospital
- Bank statement (proof of financial capability)
4.3. For Business Visa
- Invitation letter from an Indian company
- Trade license and business documents
- Bank statement of the business
4.4. For Student Visa
- Admission letter from an Indian university
- Financial support proof
- Academic certificates
4.5. For Employment Visa
- Job offer letter from an Indian company
- Employment contract
- Educational certificates
5. When Indian Visa Services Will Start for Bangladeshis?
- Regular Visa Services: Ongoing, but appointment slots fill up quickly due to high demand.
- Priority Visa Services: Business and medical visas are prioritized.
- Tourist Visas: Available, but appointment delays may occur.
It’s recommended to apply well in advance and keep track of appointment availability through the IVAC website.
6. Important Notes & Warnings
✅ Avoid Fake Agents: Only apply through official IVAC centers.
✅ Check Documents Carefully: Incorrect or missing documents can delay or reject applications.
✅ Plan Early: Due to high demand, booking an appointment in advance is crucial.
✅ Follow Official Guidelines: Visit https://indianvisa-bangladesh.nic.in for the latest updates.
Conclusion
Applying for an Indian visa from Bangladesh is a straightforward process if done correctly. With the increasing number of travelers, visa services are constantly improving, but early planning is essential to avoid delays. Always check the latest visa policies before applying!