International Travel and COVID-19
Before travelling:
- be sure to get vaccinated, and complete any additional recommended doses, at least 14 days before your departure
- review the travel health notice for COVID-19 and International Travel
If you have not completed a COVID-19 vaccine series, you should continue to avoid non-essential travel to all destinations.
Useful links
Bangladesh Travel Advice
Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)
Last updated: ET
On this page
- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
- Need help?
Risk level
Bangladesh - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Bangladesh due to the threat of terrorism, political demonstrations, nationwide general strikes and violent clashes.
Chittagong Hill Tracts region - Avoid all travel
Avoid all travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region due to politically motivated violence, kidnappings and sporadic ethnic clashes.
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
COVID-19 preventative measures and restrictions are still in effect in some destinations.
These could include:
- curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
- mandatory mask use
- required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces
Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are still in effect.
Chittagong Hill Tracts region
There is a serious risk of politically motivated violence, kidnapping and sporadic ethnic clashes in this region.
Violent clashes occur between indigenous communities that are organized under opposing political groups. The clashes result from their desire to obtain political control over specific geographic areas.
These groups also engage in extortion and drug, money and weapons smuggling.
If you decide to visit the Chittagong Hill Tracts region despite this advisory, you must contact the Chittagong Divisional Commissioner’s Office at least 10 days before you arrive.
Chittagong Divisional Commissioner’s Office
Southern Bangladesh
Many Rohingya refugees have entered southern Bangladesh, especially in the Ukhia and Teknaf sub-districts, in the south of Cox’s Bazar district. Bangladeshi authorities regulate access to these areas.
If you provide any humanitarian assistance in this region, make sure to do so through an established humanitarian agency that is registered with Bangladeshi authorities.
Stay informed on the ongoing situation.
Cox’s Bazar
Public infrastructure in the Cox’s Bazar area has severely degraded over the few past years. Resources such as basic food and potable water are limited.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism throughout the country, especially in Dhaka. Extremists have carried out attacks using improvised explosive devices and suicide bombers. Westerners have been targeted. Although such incidences have been less frequent since 2020, smaller attacks and attempted attacks still occur.
Further attacks are likely. Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
- police stations
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays. Limit your attendance at events where a large number of people, including foreigners, may gather. These include:
- sporting events
- festivals
- public celebrations
- hotels and conference centres
Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.
Civil unrest
Demonstrations, blockades, nationwide general strikes—known as hartals—and politically motivated violence have occurred. These incidents are likely to reoccur.
During strikes, demonstrations or election periods, avoid:
- Road 86 (north of Gulshan Circle 2)
- the Road 79–Gulshan Avenue intersection
Large gatherings often occur in those areas, making it difficult to pass safely.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Demonstrations
Sudden violent demonstrations and clashes can take place on Friday afternoons following Jumma prayers.
Previous violent demonstrations have resulted in several hundred deaths. Attacks using explosive devices have occurred in crowded public places, hotels, movie theatres and railway stations.
Blockades
During blockades, protesters have set fire to vehicles and damaged railway tracks, leading to derailments and injuries.
- Avoid travelling during blockades, as attacks may occur
- Prepare to have sufficient food, water and fuel available, as there may be shortages
General strikes
General strikes can effectively shut down all businesses and disrupt transportation, including in the diplomatic/expatriate areas. Passengers at Hazrat Shah Jalal International Airport may be stranded without transportation.
You may also have difficulty finding essential supplies such as fuel.
There is a high incidence of violence during these events.
During a general strike:
- avoid travelling within Dhaka, outside the Baridhara and Banani areas
- avoid all travel outside Dhaka
Politically motivated violence
Attacks have occurred at political rallies in several cities, including:
- Chittagong
- Dhaka
- Khulna
- Sylhet
Certain groups have used explosive devices and firearms during confrontations between rival political factions, demonstrators and police.
Be vigilant in Dhaka around:
- the National Parliament House and the Bangladesh Secretariat
- the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque
- the University of Dhaka
- the Mirpur, Motijheel, Naya Paltan, Purana Paltan and Shahbag districts
- the commercial district of Kawran Bazar
Crime
Violent crime
Violent crime, such as armed robberies and rapes, occurs.
Kidnappings for ransom have also occurred, though they rarely involve foreigners.
Religious minorities have been the targets of attacks. These minorities include:
- Hindus
- Buddhists
- Christians
- secular writers, including some foreigners
Petty crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging, are common, particularly in tourist areas.
- Avoid walking in public alone or after dark
- Avoid showing signs of affluence
- Do not wear jewellery
- Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Decline help from anyone who approaches you at the airport with an offer to arrange transportation or assist with luggage
Women’s safety
Women travelling alone may face some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.
- Avoid travelling alone, including on public transportation, especially at night
- Don’t go to the police station by yourself
Forced marriage
Forced marriages affecting foreigners take place. Sometimes, the affected person doesn’t know about or consent to the marriage.
Some Canadians could be forced into marital arrangements and detained against their will. They could be subjected to:
- threats
- intimidation
- violence by family members
Once you’re abroad, your family members may retain your passport to prevent you from returning to Canada. Keep digital or physical copies of your travel documents in a safe place.
If you’re in Canada
If you’re in Canada and you believe that you’re being forced to travel overseas to marry, call your local police for assistance.
If you’re abroad
If you’re abroad and you believe that you’re being forced to marry, contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada. You may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Useful links
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs, especially in Dhaka.
When using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention if others are handling your cards
- use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Essential services and tourist facilities
Planned power cuts occur daily in most parts of the country and can last for many hours.
Water supplies are also inconsistent. Several areas of the country can go for days without any water.
Be aware that tourist facilities are inadequate throughout the country.
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Road travel is dangerous, particularly after dark. Many vehicles operate without headlights or with full high beams.
Traffic in urban areas is extremely congested and chaotic. Road accidents causing injuries or death are common. Crowds, which can turn hostile, often gather around the scene of such accidents.
In you are involved in a serious accident where you could be deemed at fault:
- immediately make your way to a police station
- lock your doors and windows and call police if you cannot move your vehicle
Public transportation
Safety standards for public transportation, including buses, trains and ferries, are poor.
Thieves are present on trains, ferries and long-distance buses. They also target rickshaw, CNG (motorized rickshaw) and taxi passengers, particularly around dusk.
Be extremely cautious if using public transportation.
- Avoid travelling alone and after dark
- Use only registered taxis booked through a hotel
Buses
Buses are generally in poor condition. They are often involved in accidents.
Trains
Rail travel is slow and derailments occur. Trains are often overcrowded. Lock your compartment if you travel by train at night,
Ferries
Ferry accidents are common due to poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions.
If you choose to travel by ferry:
- make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
- don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
- verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Entry and exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include:
- entry or exit bans
- quarantine
- mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing
- suspensions or reductions of international transportation options
Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.
Before travelling:
- verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation
- consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations
- monitor the media for the latest information
- reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator
The situation could disrupt your travel plans. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.
Useful links
- Travel restrictions and health requirements - United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Bangladeshi authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of arrival in Bangladesh.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
You should obtain a visa before travelling to Bangladesh. While you can apply for single-entry tourist and business visas upon arrival, which are valid for stays of up to 30 days, there is a risk of you being denied entry into the country.
Other entry requirements
Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
You must carry all documents pertaining to the purpose of your visit. If you're travelling for business, you must also produce:
- a hotel booking confirmation
- a letter of invitation or letter of offer from a local company providing details regarding the purpose and duration of your stay
Exit requirements
If you enter Bangladesh on a business visa, you'll have to provide local authorities with an Income Tax Clearance Certificate or an Income Tax Exemption Certificate upon departure.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizens can obtain a “No Visa Required” stamp on their passport. However, it may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services.
If you entered Bangladesh with this stamp, make sure it’s transferred to any new passport you obtain while in the country.
Recognition of dual citizenship
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 24 June, 2022
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 28 June, 2022
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 28 June, 2022
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air..
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.
Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:
- travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
- making multiple trips to endemic areas
- staying for extended periods in rural areas
- visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
- engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
For destination entry and exit requirements, including for COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please check the Entry/exit requirements section.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed, air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in South Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in South Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Cholera
Risk
Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.
To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions.
Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:
- visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
- visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring
Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects and Illness
In some areas in South Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis and malaria.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.
Zika virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a health care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country.
Travel recommendations:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
- Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months after travel or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
- Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.
For more travel recommendations, see the travel health notice: Zika virus: Advice for travellers
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Southern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Avian Influenza
There have been human cases of avian influenza in this country.
Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds. In rare cases, it can infect people.
Protect yourself:
- avoid high risk areas such as poultry farms and live animal markets
- avoid areas where poultry may be slaughtered
- avoid contact with birds (alive or dead)
- avoid surfaces that may have bird droppings or secretions on them
- ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs, are well cooked
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Health care is inadequate. You will likely need medical evacuation to Singapore or Thailand in case of serious illness or injury.
You may have to pay in advance, in cash, to obtain medical services.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can face life imprisonment or a death sentence.
Alcohol consumption
Bangladeshi citizens, including dual citizens, may not consume, possess, transport or buy alcohol without a permit.
Muslims may not consume alcohol. Muslims who do face detention or other penalties.
Ramadan
In 2023, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 22.
In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:
- drinking
- eating
- smoking
Business transactions are considerably slower during Ramadan.
Dress and behaviour
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
Women in particular should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless garments.
Public displays of affection are not socially acceptable.
Photography
It’s illegal to take pictures of:
- government offices
- airports
- military establishments or officials
- official residences
- demonstrations
LGBTQ2 travellers
Bangladeshi law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.
Other related offences include being in a same-sex marriage and promoting homosexuality.
Those convicted can face life imprisonment.
LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Bangladesh.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Bangladesh.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Bangladesh, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Children
Local authorities may consider your child as a Bangladeshi citizen if you are Bangladeshi, regardless of their place of birth or if your child has formally obtained Bangladeshi citizenship.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Bangladesh.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Bangladesh by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Bangladesh to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
- Travelling with children
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Identification
Local authorities may ask you to verify your identity.
Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times.
Property disputes
Property disputes, including those between family members, are common and can turn violent.
Contact a local lawyer if you find yourself in such a situation.
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
You must carry an International Driving Permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
Money
The currency is the taka (BDT).
When entering or leaving the country, you must declare any funds exceeding US$5,000 or 5,000 taka, or their equivalent.
You must have a ticket for travel outside Bangladesh if you want to exchange taka for U.S. dollars.
You cannot leave the country with more U.S. dollars than you declared upon arrival.
Natural disasters and climate
Earthquakes and tsunamis
Bangladesh is located in an active seismic zone.
Bangladeshi authorities usually issue tsunami warnings immediately following a large earthquake.
A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.
In the event of an earthquake:
- monitor local media for the latest information
- follow the instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Earthquakes - What to Do?
- Tsunami alerts - U.S. Tsunami Warning System
Monsoons and cyclones
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from June to October. Every year during the monsoon season, a third of Bangladesh’s territory is seriously affected. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.
Bangladesh’s coastline is also subject to cyclones. Heavy rain can cause flooding throughout the country, resulting in significant casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure.
If you decide to travel to Bangladesh during the rainy season:
- know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
- be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
- stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- stay away from disaster areas
- carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
- follow the advice and instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Useful links
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
Nationwide
In case of emergency, dial:
- 999 (from a cell phone only)
- 10921 to reach the helpline for women and children experiencing violence
If you’re outside of Dhaka and don’t have a cell phone, research and carry contact information for local police and medical facilities.
In Dhaka
From any phone, dial:
- police: 88 017 133 98311 / 8802 951 4400
- firefighters: 8802 955 5555 / 8802 955 6666 / 8802 955 6667
Consular assistance
Due to the ongoing pandemic, our consular services could be limited. Contact us by email or telephone before visiting our offices.
Dhaka - High Commission of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh, in Dhaka, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
Risk Levels
Take normal security precautions
Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.
Exercise a high degree of caution
There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
IMPORTANT:The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.
Avoid non-essential travel
Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.
Avoid all travel
You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.