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Feb 20, 2026 5:48 PM - Connect Newsroom - Ramandeep Kaur

Bangladesh restores visa services for Indian nationals days after new government takes office

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Bangladesh has reinstated visa services for Indian citizens just three days after a new government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party took office. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman announced Friday that all visa categories for Indian nationals have been restored, reversing a suspension imposed nearly two months ago.

The earlier halt to visa processing had been introduced under the administration of former prime minister Muhammad Yunus. At that time, Bangladeshi authorities cited administrative and diplomatic considerations for pausing services. The decision had affected travellers seeking medical treatment, tourism, and other purposes.

According to officials at the Bangladesh High Commission, medical and tourist visas are now being processed again, along with other categories. The move is being interpreted by observers as an early signal from the new government that it intends to stabilise and improve relations with India.

Bangladesh and India share close economic and cultural ties, and cross border travel plays an important role in healthcare access, trade, and family connections. Any changes in visa policy are closely watched in both countries because of their broader diplomatic and regional implications.

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