Govt Issues Notice on Visa Extension for Expatriates

The government has issued new instructions to assist Bangladeshi expatriate workers who are unable to return to their jobs in the Middle East due to the ongoing regional conflict, outlining procedures for extending visas that have expired or are close to expiring.

The directive was announced by the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment in a public notice aimed at helping migrant workers currently stranded in Bangladesh after returning home on leave.

Many expatriates who travelled back to the country in recent weeks have been unable to return to their workplaces because of flight disruptions and security concerns in the Middle East. As a result, a number of workers now face the risk of their visas expiring before they can travel back.

To address the situation, the ministry advised affected workers to follow the visa extension procedures set by the respective host countries.

According to the notice, Bangladeshi workers currently in the country whose visas have already expired or are about to expire — and who are unable to travel abroad for renewal — should complete the required formalities through the official channels designated by the concerned governments.

The ministry said workers should contact their employers, sponsors or representatives under the sponsorship or kafala system to process visa renewals.

Expatriates who had been working in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Bahrain have been advised to submit their applications either online or through the official platforms used by their employers and immigration authorities.

Officials said coordination with employers and sponsors would remain the primary channel for resolving visa-related complications faced by migrant workers during the ongoing crisis.

In a positive development, authorities in several Gulf countries have already taken temporary measures to assist foreign workers affected by the situation.

The governments of Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have announced a one-month extension for entry visas that have already expired or are scheduled to expire soon.

The ministry said Bangladeshi expatriates should remain in contact with their employers and follow updates issued by the host governments to ensure their immigration status remains valid.

Officials also advised workers to avoid relying on unofficial intermediaries and instead use recognised government channels or their employers to complete visa-related procedures.

Bangladesh sends a large number of migrant workers to the Gulf region every year, and remittances from expatriates remain one of the country’s key sources of foreign exchange.

Authorities said the government is monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East and will continue taking steps to assist Bangladeshi workers affected by travel disruptions and administrative complications.

The ministry urged expatriates facing difficulties to remain patient and follow official guidance while efforts continue to facilitate their return to workplaces once travel conditions improve.