Bangladesh eliminates police verification for e-passport applications, streamlining the process using National ID or birth certificates for verification.
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| The Bangladesh government has streamlined the e-passport application process by eliminating police verification, now requiring only a National ID or birth certificate for verification. Image: epassport/ BD Govt |
Dhaka, Bangladesh — March 4, 2025:
The Bangladesh government has officially removed the police verification requirement from the e-passport application process. According to a circular issued by the Security Services Department of the Ministry of Home Affairs on February 18, 2025, e-passports will now be issued based solely on information available in the National Identity Card (NID). For minors and expatriate Bangladeshis, an online-registered birth registration certificate (BRC) will serve as the primary verification document.
Applicants under 18 must submit an online-registered BRC in English, while those aged between 18 and 20 can use either a NID card or a BRC. Individuals over 20 years old must provide a NID card, though Bangladeshis residing abroad can submit a BRC if they do not possess a NID. Additional documents required for e-passport applications include a printed copy of the online application form, a payment slip for the e-passport fee, an original and photocopy of the NID card or BRC, a previous passport if applicable, and a printed appointment slip.
The cost of a 48-page e-passport valid for 10 years is BDT 5,750 for regular delivery, BDT 8,050 for express delivery, and BDT 11,500 for super express delivery. A 64-page e-passport with the same validity costs BDT 11,500 for regular, BDT 14,950 for express, and BDT 18,400 for super express processing.
To apply online, applicants must visit the official e-passport portal, select the ‘Apply Online’ option, choose their district and police station to determine the designated passport office, and complete the online application form with accurate details. They must then upload the necessary documents, schedule an appointment for biometric data submission, pay the required fee, and attend the appointment with original documents for verification.
This streamlined process aims to expedite passport issuance and enhance administrative efficiency, benefiting citizens both domestically and abroad.