Bangladesh Bank has issued new guidance on opening bank accounts for foreign nationals working in Bangladesh. In a circular issued Tuesday, it instructed banks to make necessary arrangements for foreign workers holding A-3 and other employment visas, provided they have updated work permits and comply with standard customer identification and know-your-customer requirements.

The circular refers to a Home Ministry notice issued on April 29, 2026, which clarified that foreign nationals employed in Bangladesh under the A-3 visa category must receive their salaries and allowances through banks. Foreign nationals arriving under the A-3 category are required to obtain work permits from the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority, or BIDA, and renew them after expiry.

Bangladesh Bank said work permits carry a condition requiring salaries and allowances to be received through banking channels. It added that the need to receive pay through banks applies not only to A-3 visa holders but also to foreign nationals working in Bangladesh under other employment visa categories. Banks have therefore been directed to facilitate account opening when valid, updated permits and KYC compliance are in place.