Bangladesh reverses decision, will give out on-arrival visas

Bangladesh has reversed its decision to temporarily halt on-arrival visas ahead of next month’s general election, with new arrangements now in place to provide visas on arrival.

The Bangladesh government had initially decided to stop providing on arrival visas from 15th January until 15th February for all who travel there in relation to their upcoming election on 12th February.

And so, Maldives' Foreign Ministry released a statement last night, which appealed to citizens to apply for the visa needed from the Bangladesh High Commission in Maldives if they wish to travel there.

As the decision had been changed, the Foreign Ministry stated today that the Bangladesh government has reversed their decision, along with Maldivians being able to get the on-arrival visa as per usual.

Maldivians who travel to Bangladesh will receive a 90-day on-arrival visa.

The upcoming election in Bangladesh will be the first since student-led protests toppled the administration of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

With Hasina being ousted, the nation's parliament was also dissolved.

Arrangements have also been made for a referendum vote to be held on the day of the General Election in order to decide the enforcement of the road map designed for the future of the country that was submitted by Muhammad Yunus, who is a head in the interim government.