The Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Dhaka has resumed limited operations after a temporary suspension due to the recent political turmoil in Bangladesh.
The suspension followed violent clashes that resulted in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, leading to significant disruptions across the country.
Resumption of Visa Services
The Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) announced on Tuesday that it has begun offering limited visa services in Dhaka, allowing applicants to collect their passports.
However, the centre emphasized that only those who receive a text message from the IVAC should visit the centre to collect their documents. The resumption is a cautious step, reflecting the ongoing challenges in the region.
“We request applicants to be patient as the process might take longer than usual due to the limited operations,” the IVAC stated.
The centre also reassured applicants that they would receive a message when their passport was ready for collection, and it urged them to wait for this notification before coming to the centre.
Previous Suspension of Visa Services
The IVAC had closed all its centres in Bangladesh on [August 07, 2024] due to the unstable situation following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This closure caused delays for travellers who had already applied for visas or were planning to do so.
During the unrest, the IVAC had closed all its centres across Bangladesh as a precautionary measure, citing concerns for the safety of its staff and applicants. The closure was indefinite at the time, with the IVAC stating that services would resume only when the situation stabilized.
What to Expect Now
Applicants who have already submitted their visa applications will be contacted individually via SMS with instructions on collecting their passports. Due to the limited operations, processing times for new and existing applications may be longer than usual.
The IVAC urges applicants for patience and understanding during this time.
Planning Your Trip to India
If you’re a Bangladeshi citizen planning a trip to India, here’s what you need to know:
- The IVAC in Dhaka is currently accepting visa applications but with limited capacity.
- You can expect longer processing times for your visa application.
- Be sure to check the IVAC website for the latest updates on operations and procedures.
Looking Ahead
The resumption of visa services, although limited, is a positive sign for the normalization of relations between Bangladesh and India. As the situation in Bangladesh stabilizes, it’s expected that the IVAC will resume full operations soon. This will allow Bangladeshi travellers to plan their trips to India with greater ease.
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