The governent has called upon Italy to urgently address the ongoing visa gridlock affecting thousands of Bangladeshi migrant workers. During a meeting with Italian Ambassador Antonio Alessandro, Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin emphasised the dire consequences of delayed visa processing, which is causing significant financial, social, and psychological distress to applicants and their families.
The Foreign Secretary expressed concerns that the backlog of visa applications, particularly for workers with Nulla Ostas (work permits), could lead to permit expirations or cancellations, leaving migrant workers in an uncertain situation. He urged the Italian government to take immediate steps to clear the backlog and resolve the issue, reads a press statement.
In response, Ambassador Alessandro acknowledged the Foreign Secretary’s concerns and assured that he would communicate Bangladesh's request to the relevant Italian authorities. However, he clarified that the suspension of Nulla Ostas issued to Bangladeshi citizens, under a new law adopted on 11 October 2024, has caused delays. The re-examination of these permits is being carried out by Italy’s Provincial Immigration Authority, beyond the Embassy's control.
The Italian Ambassador also informed that, as per the law, the expiration dates of Nulla Ostas have been frozen during the suspension period. The Embassy has decided to return travel documents to applicants while keeping their visa requests open until the permits are confirmed or revoked by Italian authorities.
Ambassador Alessandro explained that visa processing often exceeds the standard 90-day timeline due to the high volume of applications and Italy’s enforcement of its “Flow Decree.”
This diplomatic exchange highlights the pressing need for a resolution, as thousands of Bangladeshi workers remain in limbo, awaiting clarity on their futures.
