Bangladesh Limits Tourist Visas for Indian Citizens

In a major diplomatic development, Bangladesh has started "limiting" the issuance of tourist visas for Indian nationals through its deputy high commissions in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. The decision, which reportedly took effect on Wednesday (January 7), marks a significant escalation in the ongoing visa standoff between the two neighboring countries.

Restricted Entry: While tourist visas are being heavily restricted, officials confirmed that commercial and other categories of visas remain operational for now.

Operational Hubs: Visa services were already suspended at the Bangladesh Embassy in Delhi and the Assistant High Commission in Agartala. Currently, the Assistant High Commission in Guwahati remains the only center processing visas regularly.

Tit-for-Tat Measures: Following the political transition in Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, India halted most visa services for Bangladeshis, citing security concerns. Since then, India has only issued medical and emergency visas, keeping tourist visas completely suspended for Bangladeshis. Bangladesh's latest move is widely seen as a reciprocal response to India's long-standing restrictions.

Although no official circular has been released, diplomatic sources confirmed that the reduction in visa processing is a deliberate strategic step. This growing visa crisis continues to hinder tourism and people-to-people connectivity between the two nations.