The process for obtaining Chinese visas has become significantly more accessible, streamlined, and transparent for Bangladeshi citizens. In a statement issued on Tuesday, 23 December, the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka announced that applicants for short-term visas will no longer be required to submit fingerprints—a measure aimed at reducing procedural hurdles and expediting travel.
According to the embassy, this relaxation applies to Bangladeshi nationals seeking visas for stays of up to 180 days. The exemption from fingerprint submission will remain in effect until 31 December 2026. However, the previous requirements continue to apply for long-term or specialised visas, including residence permits and visas categorised under D, J1, Q1, S1, X1, and Z types.
The embassy emphasised that this initiative aims to make travel to China more convenient and time-efficient for Bangladeshi citizens. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Chinese Visa Application Centre in Dhaka directly for detailed guidance regarding visa applications, supporting documentation, and updates.
To clarify the new rules and applicable visa types, the embassy has provided the following overview:
| Visa Type | Maximum Duration | Fingerprint Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term (all types) | Up to 180 days | Exempt until 31 December 2026 | Applicable for general tourism and business visits |
| D, J1, Q1, S1, X1, Z | Any duration | Required | For long-term stays or residence permits |
Embassy officials highlighted that this adjustment will allow applicants to obtain visas more quickly, facilitating smoother travel planning. The change is particularly advantageous for tourists and business travellers, who often face time-sensitive arrangements.
Applicants are advised to maintain regular communication with the visa centre to stay informed of any updates or to provide additional documentation if requested. The embassy stated that the revised procedure is expected to enhance the overall efficiency of Chinese travel from Bangladesh, benefiting sectors such as business, education, and tourism.
With these changes, travelling to China is poised to become a simpler and more accessible experience for Bangladeshi citizens, strengthening cultural, educational, and commercial exchanges between the two nations.