Introduction: Foreigners aiming to work or invest in Bangladesh must obtain the right type of visa to become legally eligible. This guide explores the key visa types available—PI, E2, and E3—and walks you through their purposes, eligibility, and the process involved.
Content Overview
Content Overview
- Types of Work VISAs Available
- PI VISA for Private Investors
- E2 VISA for General Employment
- E3 VISA for Specialized Projects
- How to Apply for Work VISAs in Bangladesh
- Converting VoA to Work VISA
- Recommendations and Approvals from BIDA
- Additional Notes on VISA Policy 2019
Types of Work VISAs Available
In Bangladesh, three primary types of visas are available for foreign nationals planning to work or invest:
- PI VISA – Private Investor
- E2 VISA – General Employment
- E3 VISA – Specialized Employment for Technical Work
PI VISA for Private Investors
The PI (Private Investor) VISA is specifically designed for foreign nationals looking to invest in industrial or commercial ventures within Bangladesh. It applies to both 100% foreign-owned companies and joint ventures in the private sector.
Eligibility:
- Must be a foreign national planning to invest in a recognized business venture in Bangladesh.
- Endorsement and recommendation from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) is required.
E2 VISA for General Employment
The E2 VISA is the most common visa for expatriates employed by Bangladeshi or international entities operating within the country.
Eligibility Includes:
- Expatriates employed in national, international, government, semi-government, or autonomous organizations.
- Foreign nationals working in private sector industries or commercial companies.
- Personnel engaged under government projects or contractors, including EPC contractors.
E3 VISA for Technical Supervision
The E3 VISA is designed for foreign nationals providing technical support such as machinery or software installation, maintenance supervision, and project inspection.
Eligibility:
- Technicians, engineers, or IT professionals involved in project-specific work.
- Short-term or contract-based specialists.
How to Apply for Work VISAs in Bangladesh
To apply for a PI, E2, or E3 visa, a foreign national must:
- Obtain a recommendation letter from BIDA (Bangladesh Investment Development Authority).
- Submit the visa application to the relevant Bangladeshi Mission or through an online visa processing platform if available.
- Ensure all supporting documents—such as appointment letters, investment documents, and contracts—are submitted with the application.
Converting VoA to Work VISA
Foreign nationals who initially entered Bangladesh under a Visa on Arrival (VoA) can convert it into an appropriate work visa (E2, E3, or PI) after submitting all required documents.
This flexibility is beneficial for business travelers who later decide to pursue employment or investment in Bangladesh.
Policy Updates: VISA Policy 2019
The revised VISA Policy of 2019, effective from July 2021, formalized and clarified the roles and requirements for each visa type. Key takeaways include:
- Clear distinctions among visa categories.
- Specific eligibility guidelines.
- Emphasis on documentation and approval from BIDA.
Conclusion
Whether you’re investing in Bangladesh’s growing economy or working on a technical project, choosing the right visa is a crucial step. The PI, E2, and E3 visas serve specific purposes and require proper documentation and authorization. With BIDA’s support and streamlined processes, getting started has never been more accessible.
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