India will soon restore all visa services in Bangladesh, a senior Indian diplomat said on Thursday, signalling a possible thaw in bilateral ties after months of strain following political upheaval in Dhaka.
Aniruddha Das, India’s senior consular official in Sylhet, said steps were under way to fully resume visa operations. “Medical and double-entry visas are being issued now, and steps are under way to resume other categories, including travel visas,” he was quoted as saying by Bangladeshi media houses while addressing the Sylhet District Press Club.
“India-Bangladesh relations are founded on mutual respect and honour,” Das said. “Ordinary people of both the countries will be the principal stakeholders in this stable, positive, and long-term relationship.” He added, “Our thoughts, values, and cultures have been woven together in a single thread since ancient times.”
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India had suspended visa services in phases beginning August 8, 2024, amid unrest following the July agitation that led to the ouster of the Awami League government headed by Sheikh Hasina. Services were partially restored but remained limited largely to medical and double-entry categories.
A fresh round of suspensions began in November 2025 after anti-India protests and security concerns, culminating in the closure of Indian Visa Application Centres in Dhaka and other cities. The move followed threats to Indian missions. Visa issuance reportedly fell sharply from around 8,000 per day before August 2024 to nearly 1,500.
Ties had deteriorated further during the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. However, following the February 12 election and the formation of a government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, both sides have indicated a willingness to reset relations.
The resumption of full visa services is being viewed as a significant diplomatic signal, reflecting efforts by New Delhi and Dhaka to stabilise ties after a prolonged period of tension.
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