The Indian Visa Application Centre in Chittagong halted all Indian visa applications indefinitely starting Sunday, December 21, 2025. Authorities cited a recent security incident at the Indian High Commission in the port city.
IVAC Bangladesh issued an official notice confirming the suspension. Operations at the Chittagong centre remain closed until a security review concludes. Other centers in Dhaka, Sylhet, Khulna, and Rajshahi continue to provide regular services.
Chittagong Indian Visa Suspension Announced
Chittagong Indian visa suspension affects applicants from southeastern Bangladesh. The centre processes medical, tourist, business, and student visas.
IVAC stated: “Due to a recent security incident at the Assistant High Commission of India (AHCI) Chittagong, Indian visa operations at IVAC Chittagong will remain suspended from 21/12/2025 until further notice.”
The notice stated that reopening would depend on the assessment of the situation. Applicants receive rescheduling information via email or the IVAC portal.
Many Bangladeshis rely on Indian visas for medical treatment at hospitals in Kolkata or Chennai. Business travellers and tourists also face disruptions. Alternative submissions require travel to Dhaka. This adds costs and delays for regional residents. The port city centre primarily serves the Chattogram division. High demand exists for cross-border movement.
Triggering Incident and Protests
Protests intensified after the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Masked gunmen shot him on December 12 during an election campaign in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area. Hadi died on December 18 in Singapore General Hospital. He played a key role in the 2024 student protests that led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
His death sparked widespread unrest. Demonstrators vandalised properties and targeted media outlets seen as pro-India. Stone-pelting targeted the Assistant Indian High Commissioner’s residence in Chittagong on December 18.
Similar attempts occurred near Indian missions in Rajshahi and Khulna. Brief closures followed there. Protesters chanted anti-India slogans during Hadi’s funeral on December 20. Tens of thousands attended a gathering near Dhaka University’s mosque.
Hadi criticized the perceived Indian influence in Bangladeshi politics. Allegations surfaced that assailants fled to India, though this is unverified. Bangladesh police enhanced security around diplomatic sites. Additional measures were taken to protect the Sylhet Assistant High Commission on December 20.
Broader Context of India-Bangladesh Relations
Indian visa applications suspended as a precautionary measure amid tensions. Bilateral ties have been strained since Hasina’s exile in India. Interim government under Muhammad Yunus navigates pre-election challenges. Parliamentary polls are scheduled for early 2026.
Cross-border travel remains essential. Thousands cross daily for trade, treatment, and family visits. IVAC operates five centres nationwide. Chittagong handles significant volume from the southeast.
Past suspensions occurred during the 2024 unrest. Services resumed gradually then. Current closure is limited to Chittagong. No disruptions reported elsewhere as of December 21.
Applicants are advised to monitor the official IVAC website. Updates posted there. Diplomatic channels address security obligations. Bangladesh is responsible for protecting foreign missions in accordance with international conventions and treaties.
Impact on Travellers and Bilateral Ties
The Bangladesh Indian visa centre in Chittagong has closed, disrupting planned trips. Medical patients face urgent rescheduling needs.
Business communities in both countries express concern. Trade links depend on smooth mobility. Student visa applicants are also affected. Many pursue education in Indian institutions.
The suspension highlights the vulnerability of consular services to local unrest. Regional stability is crucial for South Asian connectivity. India and Bangladesh share a long border and economic ties.
Medical tourism from Bangladesh supports Indian hospitals. Delays could shift patients elsewhere. Tourist flows are mutual. Bangladeshis visit Indian hill stations and religious sites.
What’s Next for Indian Visa Applications Suspended
Indian visa applications are suspended while awaiting the outcome of security clearance. IVAC commits to making a timely announcement regarding the reopening. Authorities conduct thorough reviews. Enhanced protection measures continue at missions.
Applicants encouraged to check alternatives. Dhaka centre handles an increased load potentially. Monitoring evolves closely. Diplomatic efforts aim to restore normalcy.
The pre-election period demands vigilance. Law enforcement prevents the exploitation of tensions. The suspension of Indian visa applications highlights the importance of maintaining calm amid political transitions.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 21st, 2025
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