Dhaka, Mar 15 (V7N) — Due to escalating tensions in the Middle East following retaliatory attacks between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, international flights have become irregular, leaving many Bangladeshi expatriates stranded during their holidays. The Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment (MoEWOE) has now allowed these workers to apply for visa renewals without returning to their host countries.

The Ministry issued a public notice on Saturday, March 14, stating that Bangladeshi workers currently in Bangladesh on leave from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Bahrain can coordinate with their employers or sponsors (kafeel) to apply for visa renewals. Applications can also be submitted online.

The notice clarified that governments in Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE have extended the visa validity by one month for workers whose visas have already expired or are nearing expiration. Due to ongoing flight disruptions caused by the Iran-Israel conflict, workers currently on leave in Bangladesh cannot return to their host countries to renew visas in person. This alternative arrangement aims to prevent legal and employment-related complications.

The Ministry emphasized that the temporary renewal mechanism ensures that workers will not face visa expiry issues while staying in Bangladesh during the current regional instability. Workers are encouraged to submit their renewal applications promptly through the designated channels to avoid any disruption in employment or legal status.

Officials noted that this step reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Bangladeshi migrant workers abroad, especially during unforeseen international crises.

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