CHATTOGRAM, Nov 12, 2025 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), in collaboration with UNDP today organized a view exchange meeting “Work Permit and Security Clearance Process for Expatriates and Investors in Bangladesh” here.  

The meeting brought together representatives from BIDA, the Special Branch (SB), the National Security Intelligence (NSI), and other key government agencies, along with the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, to explore ways to simplify and harmonize work permit and security clearance procedures for expatriates in Bangladesh, said a press release.

 This initiative is part of the Transformative Economic Policy Programme (TEPP), implemented by  United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and coordination in investment facilitation processes.

 Bangladesh’s rapid economic growth has increased demand for skilled foreign professionals and investors. However, delays and complex procedures for obtaining work permits and security clearances have often discouraged potential investors. 

The workshop focused on aligning institutional processes, strengthening coordination, and promoting professional and respectful engagement with foreign applicants.

“A streamlined, technology-driven work permit system will strengthen investor confidence and position Bangladesh as a more attractive destination for global businesses,” said Md. Shaharul Huda, Executive Member, BIDA.

He added, “Strong coordination among the institutions involved in the work permit process is essential for improving service delivery and ensuring a transparent and investor-friendly environment.”

“Work permit reforms are not just administrative, they are strategic steps toward creating a secure, business-friendly, and globally competitive Bangladesh,” stated Md. Ariful Hoque, Director General, BIDA.

“Security vetting must be conducted with both rigor and efficiency, our objective is to safeguard national interests while ensuring investors experience a clear and predictable clearance process,” said Jesmin Akhter Khan, Joint Director, NSI.

She further emphasized, “Ensuring complete, verifiable documentation and channeling salary payments through formal banking systems are essential for compliance and for strengthening confidence in Bangladesh’s work permit framework.”

UNDP is supporting this effort through TEPP by helping digitize and streamline processes between BIDA’s One Stop Service (OSS) and the Ministry of Home Affairs. These reforms aim to reduce manual steps, improve transparency, and make the overall process smoother for foreign experts and investors.

The consultation marks a major step toward creating a more efficient and investor-friendly environment, helping Bangladesh attract global expertise and investment to support its continued economic growth.