New travel protocol guidelines for ministers

The Cabinet Division has introduced a set of 11 updated guidelines outlining travel protocols for ministers, state ministers, and deputy ministers, covering both domestic and foreign trips with a focus on coordination, security and administrative discipline.

The instructions, signed by the Cabinet Secretary, were published on Monday, detailing responsibilities of officials at different levels during ministers’ movements.

Under the new guidelines, for foreign travel, the additional secretary concerned or joint secretary must be present at the airport during both departure and arrival. For domestic travel, private secretaries will attend as per the minister’s preference.

At district level, deputy commissioners (DCs) and superintendents of police (SPs), along with senior officials from the relevant ministry, are expected to receive and see off ministers. If they are unavailable due to official duties, senior deputies will take their place. However, if specifically requested, DCs or SPs must adjust their schedules to attend.

During visits to upazila headquarters, reception duties will be handled by the upazila nirbahi officer (UNO), assistant superintendent of police, and the senior-most local official of the concerned ministry.

The guidelines also clarify that certain key officials-including DCs of Dhaka, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, and Jessore, as well as SPs and metropolitan police commissioners-are not required to be present at airports or railway stations unless necessary.

Security arrangements have been emphasised, with SPs instructed to take appropriate measures upon receiving travel schedules. For rail journeys, railway police must coordinate along the route, ensuring officers are present at boarding and arrival points.

In terms of general procedures, ministries are required to share travel schedules in advance and promptly communicate any changes. The rules also state that protocol will apply even if ministers stay at private residences instead of government accommodation.

Additionally, officials must clearly indicate whether a trip is official or personal, as this will determine transport and accommodation arrangements. For personal visits, applicable service charges will be enforced.

The Cabinet Division said the updated guidelines aim to streamline official movements, improve coordination among agencies, and ensure efficient use of government resources.