In a significant move set to revitalise cross-border travel and tourism, India has announced the resumption of tourist visa processing for Bangladeshi nationals, bringing an end to a prolonged suspension that had impacted travel flows between the two countries.
The fresh round of visa applications will be accepted starting June 28, 2026, through designated visa application centres, restoring a key travel corridor in South Asia that is vital for tourism, medical travel, and business exchanges.
The decision marks a return to near-normal visa operations after restrictions imposed in 2024 limited issuance largely to emergency and medical categories. Industry stakeholders view the development as a positive step towards strengthening people-to-people connectivity and rebuilding tourism momentum between India and Bangladesh.
Prior to the suspension, India was issuing approximately 6,000 to 7,000 visas daily to Bangladeshi citizens, making Bangladesh one of the largest source markets for inbound travel to India. However, the numbers had dropped significantly over the past two years due to the curbs, affecting not just leisure travel but also retail tourism and short-haul business visits.
The resumption is expected to provide a much-needed boost to segments such as medical tourism, which has traditionally seen a high volume of Bangladeshi travellers visiting Indian cities like Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru for treatment. Additionally, destinations in eastern and northeastern India are likely to witness renewed interest due to their proximity and cultural linkages.
Tour operators and travel agents on both sides have welcomed the move, anticipating a gradual but steady recovery in outbound travel from Bangladesh. The development also aligns with Bangladesh’s earlier decision to ease visa services for Indian travellers, indicating a reciprocal effort to normalise bilateral travel relations.
For the travel and hospitality industry, the reopening of this corridor comes at a crucial time, especially as destinations continue to rebuild international traffic post disruptions. Stakeholders expect that improved connectivity, competitive pricing, and streamlined visa processes will further accelerate demand in the coming months.
Overall, the resumption of tourist visas is being seen as a strategic step in restoring tourism flows, boosting regional cooperation, and reinforcing India’s position as a preferred short-haul destination for Bangladeshi travellers.
