TDS Desk

The Government of Bangladesh is set to take action against foreign nationals residing illegally in the country. The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a notice requiring these individuals to legalise their status by 31 January 2025. Failure to comply will result in arrest and legal consequences.

According to government data, there are approximately 120,000 foreign nationals in Bangladesh, though the actual number is estimated to be between 400,000 and 500,000, with Indian citizens comprising a significant portion. Many of these individuals are reportedly involved in various criminal activities. Currently, 472 foreign nationals are incarcerated for offenses including drug trafficking, fraud, currency counterfeiting, illegal VoIP operations, gold smuggling, online gambling, and human trafficking. Some are also employed in private institutions without proper authorisation, evading taxes, and remitting earnings through informal channels. The lack of a comprehensive database and legal loopholes have allowed these individuals to reside in Bangladesh without facing significant obstacles.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged all foreign nationals residing or working illegally in Bangladesh to obtain the necessary documentation by the 31 January deadline. Relevant departments and institutions have been requested to provide assistance in this process. After the deadline, legal action will be taken against those who remain undocumented, as well as against the institutions employing them.

Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has stated that no foreign national will be allowed to stay in Bangladesh illegally. The government is preparing to launch nationwide operations to identify and take action against illegal foreign residents. This initiative includes updating records of foreign nationals and ensuring that those working or conducting business in Bangladesh are properly documented and taxed.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has emphasised that this is a routine procedure aimed at maintaining law and order, and ensuring that all foreign nationals comply with Bangladeshi laws and regulations. Foreign nationals are advised to take immediate steps to regularise their status to avoid legal complications.