Govt issues guidelines on visa extension for stranded Mideast expats
A large number of expatriates who had returned to Bangladesh on leave are now facing difficulties in travelling back to their workplaces, with some of their visas already expired or close to expiry
ATT Correspondent 
The Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Ministry has issued a public notice outlining procedures for Bangladeshi migrant workers to extend their visas after many were unable to return to their jobs due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
According to the notice issued on Saturday, a large number of expatriates who had returned to Bangladesh on leave are now facing difficulties in travelling back to their workplaces, with some of their visas already expired or close to expiry.
To address the situation, the ministry advised affected workers to follow the visa renewal procedures set by the respective host countries.
Expatriates who travelled from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Bahrain have been instructed to apply for visa renewal through their employers, sponsors or the kafala system using official online platforms or designated channels.
The ministry said the governments of Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have already taken steps to ease the situation by extending the validity of entry visas that have expired or are due to expire by one month.
Officials said the directive aims to help stranded migrant workers maintain their legal status and return to their workplaces once travel conditions improve.
