Bangladesh
Summary
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This does not include the city of Chittagong or other parts of Chittagong Division.
COVID-19 entry restrictions for Bangladesh
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Bangladesh’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
Travelling from and returning to the UK
Check what you must do to travel abroad and return to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
Severe flooding in north-east Bangladesh, including in Sylhet District, has resulted in hazardous conditions that has already seen the loss of life. Sylhet Osmani International Airport is closed and all domestic and international flights suspended. Other transport routes including rail are also impacted. If travel is necessary, familiarise yourself with the advice of local authorities in advance and take extra care.
The Bangladesh Army has launched a toll-free helpline for the flood victims of Sylhet and Sunamganj. Those affected can seek help from the authorities by dialling any of the helpline numbers.
The numbers are +88 01769177266-68, +88 01852788000, +88 01852798800, +88 01852804477, +88 01987781144, +88 01993781144, +8801995781144, and +88 01513918096-8.
Measures in response to Coronavirus can be introduced at short notice by the Bangladesh authorities. Measures currently in place include wearing masks in public spaces, capacity restrictions in public settings, including on public transport and a requirement to show vaccination status in some settings. You are advised to have proof of your vaccination status, if applicable, and to carry a mask.
If you’re planning travel to Bangladesh, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
For information about COVID-19 vaccines, see the Coronavirus page.
COVID-19 public health measures are in force in Bangladesh. See Coronavirus.
Up to 150,000 British nationals visit Bangladesh every year. Most visits are trouble free.
North-east Bangladesh, particularly Sylhet District, is currently experiencing severe flooding affecting safety. Sylhet Osmani International Airport is closed and all domestic and international flights suspended. Other transport routes including rail are also impacted. If travel is necessary, familiarise yourself with the advice of local authorities in advance and take extra care.
The Bangladesh Army has launched a toll-free helpline for the flood victims of Sylhet and Sunamganj. Those affected can seek help from the authorities by dialling any of the helpline numbers.
The numbers are +88 01769177266-68, +88 01852788000, +88 01852798800, +88 01852804477, +88 01987781144, +88 01993781144, +8801995781144, and +88 01513918096-8.
Travel in Bangladesh during the monsoon season (June to September) can be hazardous. See Monsoon season.
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Bangladesh. The threat extends across the country. There have been several IED (Improvised Explosive Device) attacks targeting police and security forces in Dhaka, Khulna, Chittagong and Sylhet. There is a risk that future attacks could target public gatherings, including religious gatherings and political rallies, crowded areas, places with a police or security presence and locations where foreign nationals are known to gather. You should minimise your exposure to these areas, consider your movements carefully and follow any specific advice of the local authorities. See Terrorism.
Political rallies with the potential for disorder or clashes between groups and with law enforcement agencies may take place. Across Bangladesh you’re advised to avoid large gatherings, including those for religious gatherings, festivals and political rallies. See Political violence.
Severe air pollution is a major hazard to public health, especially during the winter months. Dhaka is currently experiencing extremely high levels of pollution. See Air pollution.
Bangladesh lies in a zone of seismic activity. See Earthquakes.
Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever occur all year round. There’s been a significant increase in the number of cases of dengue fever across Bangladesh, including in Dhaka. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. See Health.
UK health authorities have classified Bangladesh as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with Zika virus, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. Consular support is limited in parts of Bangladesh where we advise against all but essential travel.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.