Bangladesh
Summary - There are reports about the need for heightened vigilance in Dhaka. We are not aware of any specific threat. Please remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings.
There are reports in the public domain about the need for heightened vigilance in Dhaka. We are not aware of any specific threat. Please remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This does not include the city of Chittagong or other parts of Chittagong Division. See Chittagong Hill Tracts
On 24 February 2019 an attempted hijacking took place of a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight from Dhaka to Dubai via Chittagong. The Bangladesh Civil Aviation Ministry is conducting an investigation into the incident. See Air Travel
Although British nationals are eligible for visa on arrival for a period of 1 month for the purpose of official duty, business, investment and tourism, we recommend obtaining a visa before travelling. We have received some reports that British nationals have been issued shorter Visas or refused entry into Bangladesh when applying for a visa on arrival. Contact the Bangladesh High Commission London for information on visas. You should also be aware that overstaying your visa could risk the imposition of penalty fines for overstaying. See Visas
Political rallies with the potential for disorder, or clashes between groups and with law enforcement agencies, may take place. You’re advised to avoid large gatherings and political rallies.
As a result of ongoing violence in Burma since August 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees have arrived in the south-east of Bangladesh, close to the border with Burma. They’re concentrated in the sub-districts of Ukhia and Teknaf in the southern part of Cox’s Bazar district. The Bangladeshi authorities regulate access to the areas where the Rohingya are accommodated.
There have been reports of insecurity in these areas. A reported incident on 21 February involved an attack with the use of some violence by residents of Kutupalong camp against a party including European journalists.
You should exercise caution and consult the local authorities about the latest situation before visiting Ukhia and Teknaf. You may need to meet access requirements. We encourage all humanitarian assistance to be coordinated through recognised humanitarian agencies registered with the Bangladeshi authorities.
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Bangladesh. The threat extends across the country. The last terrorist attack was the murder of Shahzahan Bachchu on 11 June 2018 when he was attacked and killed in the Munshiganj area of Dhaka Division but there is a risk that future attacks could target public gatherings. There is also the risk that foreign nationals could be directly targeted in future attacks. See Terrorism
The Bangladeshi authorities have successfully disrupted a number of planned attacks and remain at high alert; there may be increases in security force presence and restrictions on movement may be put in place at short notice. Crowded areas and places where foreign nationals are known to gather may be at higher risk of attack. You should minimise your exposure to these areas, consider your movements carefully and follow any specific advice of the local security authorities. See Terrorism
Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) has claimed responsibility for a number of terrorist attacks in Bangladesh since September 2015.
Groups affiliated to Al Qaeda in the Indian Sub-continent (AQIS) are also active.
Tropical cyclones and flooding can affect parts of the country. You should monitor the progress of approaching weather systems on the website of the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, and follow the advice of local authorities. See Natural disasters
Bangladesh lies in a zone of seismic activity. In the event of an earthquake you should remain vigilant, stay in a place of safety and follow any advice provided by the local authorities.
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.
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
Up to 150,000 British nationals visit Bangladesh every year. Most visits are trouble free.
