General Travel Advice

Bangladesh is classified as Category II, meaning that there is a high security risk to visit the country. However, we do NOT recommend visiting certain areas of the country, which are classified as Category I (Red) due to the high security risks.

Areas NOT recommended for travel Safety Category I (red):

• Chittagong Hill Tracts region: Ethnic clashes, armed conflicts, kidnappings and the activities of organized criminal groups pose a significant security risk in the region.
• Border areas with Myanmar: Armed clashes and the presence of criminal groups on the border threaten security.

The following areas are considered particularly dangerous:

• Parts of Dhaka: Political protests and riots are regular, often escalating into violence.
• Busy centers of larger cities: mass movements, chaotic traffic, and violent incidents pose a risk.
• Rural areas of Rangpur and Rajshahi regions: increased security risk, due to limited police presence and organized criminal activity.

The country is subject to political instability, strikes (hartals), demonstrations and spontaneous riots. The transport situation is uncertain, roadblocks and demonstrations on major roads may hinder travel. The military presence of law enforcement forces is typical in several areas, and the public security situation is fragile. The crime rate is high, especially pickpocketing and robberies.

Stay up-to-date with local and international news. Avoid mass events, political rallies and demonstrations. Be especially careful in markets, public transport and religious sites.

Recommendation for Hungarian citizens:

• Avoid mass events, demonstrations, and rallies.
• Please follow local news and information from the Hungarian embassy.
• Register for consular protection before traveling.
• Avoid night traffic and rural, deserted areas.
• Ensure sufficient drinking water and basic food supplies due to possible supply disruptions.

The security situation can change rapidly, therefore continuous information and precautions are recommended for Hungarian citizens residing in Bangladesh or wishing to travel there.

Terrorist threat: Bangladesh is characterized by a terrorist threat and an uncertain security situation. Bomb attacks and violent acts can also occur in places visited by tourists, so it is advisable to avoid events that attract large crowds. 

Al Qaeda-linked groups are active in the Indian subcontinent.

Bangladeshi security forces remain on high alert following previous terrorist attacks. Security presence may increase and curfews may be imposed at any time.

The terrorist threat in Bangladesh remains high. Foreigners, especially those from outside Asia, are particularly vulnerable to attacks. Crowded areas where foreigners are expected to be present are a particular source of danger. These areas should be avoided, and all movements should be carried out with caution and great caution.

ADDITIONAL GENERAL TRAVEL RULES FOR BANGLADESH

We would like to draw the attention of Hungarian citizens to the fact that due to the unpredictable domestic political situation, they should only travel to Bangladesh if absolutely necessary. We also recommend that Hungarian citizens residing in the country avoid mass gatherings, political group and party headquarters, and be vigilant.

Specific security risks that require increased attention from all incoming Hungarian citizens:

1. Crime: Armed robberies, pickpocketing, and other attempts at robbery against foreigners are common in the country. The typical method of crime is “hit and run” on motorcycles and three-wheeled motorized rickshaws (locally known as “CNGs” because of the fuel they use). Do not carry large sums of money, and do not wear jewelry or valuable watches in plain sight. It is not recommended – especially for women – to move around alone, and especially not in the evening hours. Since local authorities may abuse their position, it is also not recommended to visit local police stations alone.

Be careful when making online transactions and using credit cards. Although cards are accepted in larger hotels and shops, cash may be more common and safer in smaller places. Always pay attention to the physical security of your card.

2. Terrorism: There are many extremist organizations operating in the country that are capable of carrying out terrorist acts throughout the country. Places visited by foreign tourists are particularly at risk from this perspective. Various organizations (not only terrorist, but also criminal organizations) do not shy away from kidnappings.

3. Street protests: various street protests (political, trade union, religious, etc.) are common, which can suddenly turn violent (burning of vehicles, violence against deployed police or military personnel, building of street barricades, etc.). It is strongly recommended to avoid street protests.

4. Ethnic conflicts: There is strong ethnic tension in many regions. The most vulnerable area in this regard is the Chittagong Hill Tracts (around Rangamati, Khagrachari and Bandarban). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade recommends avoiding all non-urgent or essential travel to this area.

5. Border clashes:  artillery duels and crossfire between the border forces of the two countries are still common in the Bangladesh-India border area, so visiting the border area is not recommended.

6. Domestic political risk: the country has experienced several successful and unsuccessful coups throughout its history, which have caused violence and chaos for longer or shorter periods of time. Therefore, it is advisable to find out about current domestic political developments before entering, and in the event of a potential domestic political crisis, we recommend leaving the country as soon as possible.

7. Local authorities and administration: Local authorities are generally helpful to foreigners, but administration can be slow and bureaucratic. Avoid conflict situations with the authorities. Carry copies of your passport and visa, but keep the originals in a safe place. Be aware that the local legal system and prison conditions may differ significantly from those in Europe. Serious crimes, especially drug-related, can carry severe penalties.

Safety tips for women and those arriving with small children:

Travelers are not necessarily more aware of the tensions that exist and are repressed in Bangladeshi society. We consider traveling as a single woman or in a group of women to be particularly risky; we recommend that you consider this very seriously.

Women traveling with men should always pay special attention to the choice of accommodation they share, its basic safety equipment (a well-closing door, a security chain, a peephole), and we recommend that you adhere to local dress codes.

Avoid places further away from traffic, do not use public transport, do not get into local three-wheeled motor rickshaws, so-called CNG, and refuse any offer of service, and do not leave your accommodation after dark. Under no circumstances should you venture to visit places further away from tourist attractions. Always carry a mobile phone with you and save the emergency number of the local police. Exercise due caution and prudence when visiting public places.