In light of the changed political scenario in Bangladesh, India has opted to suspend the issuance of visas, except for urgent medical and emergency needs.
The decision was announced by the Ministry of External Affairs of India on Sunday (29 September).
Indian media outlet Anandabazar reported on the announcement, citing spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who stated that visas would currently be granted exclusively for medical emergencies.
He indicated that once the situation in Bangladesh normalises, full visa services would resume.
Following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, India had ceased visa services for Bangladeshi nationals. The turbulent conditions in Bangladesh prompted the Indian embassy to repatriate several staff members.
However, as the situation began to stabilise, Indian visa centres reopened. Nevertheless, many individuals protested at the Indian visa application centre in Dhaka due to prolonged delays in obtaining visas.
This unrest further disrupted operations, compelling India to clarify its stance on visa applications from Bangladeshi citizens.
Additionally, following increased security measures at Indian embassies and visa centres, emergency services have resumed from September.
The Indian Visa Application Centre has announced that it will initially reopen in Dhaka, Rajshahi, Chattogram, Sylhet, and Khulna.
However, it has been emphasised that not all applicants will receive visas immediately; only those seeking medical treatment will be prioritised.
An official statement reiterated that the situation in Bangladesh remains unstable, and normal visa issuance will only resume once law and order conditions improve. For the time being, visa issuance to Bangladeshi citizens will occur under strict conditions.
