Today, a view exchange meeting titled “Work Permit and Security Clearance Process for Expatriates and Investors in Bangladesh” was held here by the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and UNDP.
According to a press release, representatives from the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, BIDA, the Special Branch (SB), the National Security Intelligence (NSI), and other important government agencies met to discuss ways to streamline and standardize the work permit and security clearance processes for foreigners living in Bangladesh.
This initiative is part of the Transformative Economic Policy Programme (TEPP), implemented by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and coordination in investment facilitation processes.
Bangladesh’s rapid economic growth has increased demand for skilled foreign professionals and investors. However, delays and complex procedures for obtaining work permits and security clearances have often discouraged potential investors.
The workshop focused on aligning institutional processes, strengthening coordination, and promoting professional and respectful engagement with foreign applicants.
“A streamlined, technology-driven work permit system will strengthen investor confidence and position Bangladesh as a more attractive destination for global businesses,” said Md. Shaharul Huda, Executive Member, BIDA.
He added, “Strong coordination among the institutions involved in the work permit process is essential for improving service delivery and ensuring a transparent and investor-friendly environment.”
“Work permit reforms are not just administrative, they are strategic steps toward creating a secure, business-friendly, and globally competitive Bangladesh,” stated Md. Ariful Hoque, Director General, BIDA.
“Security vetting must be conducted with both rigor and efficiency, our objective is to safeguard national interests while ensuring investors experience a clear and predictable clearance process,” said Jesmin Akhter Khan, Joint Director, NSI.
“Ensuring complete, verifiable documentation and channeling salary payments through formal banking systems are essential for compliance and for strengthening confidence in Bangladesh’s work permit framework,” she added.
Through TEPP, UNDP is assisting in the digitization and simplification of procedures between the Ministry of Home Affairs and BIDA’s One Stop Service (OSS). Reducing manual stages, increasing transparency, and streamlining the process for foreign specialists and investors are the goals of these initiatives.
In order to promote Bangladesh’s ongoing economic progress, the consultation is a significant step toward establishing a more effective and investor-friendly environment.
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