This comprehensive guide covers UK visa requirements for Bangladeshi citizens in 2026, including official fees in BDT, processing times, and current success rates. The 6-month Standard Visitor visa costs ৳21,828, the Student visa is ৳90,061, and the Spouse visa is ৳333,089. Critical warning: Bangladesh has the lowest visitor visa grant rate globally at just 48% — meaning more than half of all applications are refused. Understanding the statistics and requirements is essential for Bangladeshi applicants to maximise their chances of approval.
Source: Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025
- UK Visa Ratio from Bangladesh 2026
- UK Visa Fees in Bangladesh (BDT)
- UK Visit Visa from Bangladesh
- UK Student Visa from Bangladesh
- UK Family Visa from Bangladesh
- UK Work Permit Visa from Bangladesh
- UK Transit Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
- How to Apply for UK Visa from Bangladesh
- FAQs: UK Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
Overview: UK Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens 2026
Bangladeshi citizens require a visa to enter the United Kingdom for any purpose — tourism, family visits, study, or work. Applications are processed through VFS Global centres in Dhaka and Sylhet, with standard processing times of approximately 3 weeks for non-settlement visas and up to 12 weeks for settlement applications. The exception is Bangladeshis holding dual citizenship from visa-exempt countries such as the USA, EU member states, or Commonwealth nations with visa-free access.
Bangladesh has the lowest visitor visa grant rate of any major nationality — just 48% (year ending September 2025). More than half of all visitor visa applications from Bangladesh are refused. Applicants must provide exceptionally strong documentation to succeed.
The challenging approval rates reflect the UK Home Office's heightened scrutiny of applications from Bangladesh. Common refusal reasons include insufficient financial evidence, weak ties to Bangladesh, concerns about overstaying intentions, and document authenticity issues. Professional guidance is often essential for complex applications, particularly for spouse visa applications and skilled worker visas.
UK Visa Ratio from Bangladesh 2026
The UK visa ratio (success rate) from Bangladesh varies significantly by visa type: visitor visas have a 48% grant rate (worst globally), student visas 84%, family visas 88%, and work visas just 51%. According to Home Office statistics for the year ending September 2025, Bangladesh faces the highest refusal rates among all major nationalities.
The term "ratio" is commonly used in Bangladesh to refer to visa success rates or grant rates. Understanding these statistics helps applicants set realistic expectations and prepare stronger applications. The data below comes from official Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025.
What is the UK visa ratio from Bangladesh 2025?
| Visa Category | Applications | Grant Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa | 39,733 | 48% (21,712 refused) |
| Student Visa | 14,104 | 84% (1,684 refused) |
| Family Visa | 2,268 | 88% (262 refused) |
| Work Visa | 6,390 | 51% (3,155 refused) |
| Skilled Worker | 5,393 | 52% (2,581 refused) |
Source: Home Office Immigration System Statistics, year ending September 2025
How does Bangladesh compare to other countries?
Bangladesh's 48% visitor visa grant rate is the lowest of any major nationality applying for UK visas. For comparison, the global average visitor visa grant rate is 79%. Even other countries considered "high-risk" by the Home Office have significantly better outcomes — Ghana achieves 57%, Pakistan 58%, and Nigeria 61%. The only countries approaching Bangladesh's refusal rates are smaller applicant pools with fewer than 10,000 annual applications.
| Country | Visitor Grant Rate |
|---|---|
| Bangladesh | 48% (LOWEST) |
| Ghana | 57% |
| Pakistan | 58% |
| Nigeria | 61% |
| India | 82% |
| Global Average | 79% |
What is the UK student visa ratio from Bangladesh?
The UK student visa ratio from Bangladesh is 84% (year ending September 2025), with 14,104 applications and 1,684 refusals. While significantly better than visitor visas, this remains below the global student visa average of 95%. By comparison, China achieves 99%, India 96%, and Pakistan 92%. Bangladesh ranks #7 globally for UK student visa applications but faces greater scrutiny around financial evidence and genuine student intent.
UK Visa Fees in Bangladesh 2026 (BDT)
UK visa fees for Bangladeshi citizens in 2026 are paid in Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) at the official Home Office exchange rate of 1 GBP = ৳171.874 BDT (February 2026). The 6-month Standard Visitor visa costs ৳21,828, the Student visa is ৳90,061, and the Spouse settlement visa is ৳333,089. VFS service charges, IHS, and priority fees are additional.
UK visit visa fee from Bangladesh
| Visitor Visa Type | Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Standard Visitor (6 months) | ৳21,828 |
| Long-term (2 years) | ৳81,639 |
| Long-term (5 years) | ৳145,748 |
| Long-term (10 years) | ৳182,013 |
| Marriage Visitor | ৳21,828 |
| Medical Visitor (6-11 months) | ৳37,812 |
| Visiting Academic (6-12 months) | ৳37,812 |
UK student visa fee for Bangladeshi citizens
| Study Visa Type | Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Student Visa | ৳90,061 |
| Short-term Study (6-11 months) | ৳36,781 |
| Child Student Visa | ৳90,061 |
UK work permit visa price in Bangladesh
| Work Visa Type | Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (up to 3 years) | ৳127,183 |
| Skilled Worker (over 3 years) | ৳251,224 |
| Skilled Worker — ISL (up to 3 years) | ৳97,579 |
| Skilled Worker — ISL (over 3 years) | ৳191,850 |
| Health & Care Worker (up to 3 years) | ৳50,278 |
| Health & Care Worker (over 3 years) | ৳97,579 |
| Global Business Mobility (all types) | ৳52,759 |
| Global Talent (with approval letter) | ৳33,905 |
| Innovator Founder | ৳210,704 |
UK spouse visa fee from Bangladesh
| Family Visa Type | Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Spouse/Partner Visa | ৳333,089 |
| Fiancé(e) Visa | ৳333,089 |
| Parent of British Child | ৳333,089 |
| Adult Dependent Relative | ৳586,601 |
| Parent of Student Child | ৳117,217 |
VFS fees and priority services in Bangladesh
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Priority Service (5 working days) | ৳85,937 |
| Super Priority (next working day) | ৳171,874* |
| Settlement Priority (6 weeks) | ৳85,937 |
| IHS — Student rate (per year) | £776 |
| IHS — Standard rate (per year) | £1,035 |
*Super Priority service is not consistently available in Bangladesh. Check availability at time of application. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is paid in GBP during the online application and is required for all visas longer than 6 months. Visitor visa applicants are exempt from IHS.
UK Visit Visa from Bangladesh
The UK visit visa from Bangladesh costs ৳21,828 for a 6-month visa, with a standard processing time of 3 weeks. Bangladesh has the lowest visitor visa grant rate globally at just 48%, meaning applicants must provide exceptionally strong evidence of ties to Bangladesh, genuine travel intentions, and substantial financial resources.
The Standard Visitor visa allows Bangladeshi citizens to visit the UK for tourism, family visits, business activities, or short-term studies. The visa permits stays of up to 180 days per visit, though the challenging 48% approval rate means exceptional documentation is essential.
In the year ending September 2025, 39,733 Bangladeshi nationals applied for UK visitor visas. Only 20,034 were granted — a 48% success rate. This compares unfavourably to India (82%), Pakistan (58%), and the global average (79%). The high refusal rate reflects strict scrutiny of financial evidence and immigration intent.
How to improve UK visit visa chances from Bangladesh?
- Strong ties to Bangladesh: Property ownership, employment letters, business registration
- Substantial bank balance: 6+ months statements showing consistent savings (not recent large deposits)
- Clear travel history: Previous Schengen, US, or other Western visa stamps demonstrate compliance
- Specific travel plans: Confirmed accommodation bookings, detailed itinerary, return tickets
- Genuine purpose: Sponsor invitation letter with relationship evidence if visiting family
Show money for UK tourist visa from Bangladesh
Bangladeshi applicants should demonstrate sufficient funds for their UK trip. While there is no official minimum, typical expectations based on trip duration are:
| Trip Duration | Recommended Funds |
|---|---|
| 1-2 weeks | ৳200,000 - ৳350,000 (£1,200 - £2,000) |
| 3-4 weeks | ৳350,000 - ৳520,000 (£2,000 - £3,000) |
| 1-2 months | ৳520,000 - ৳860,000 (£3,000 - £5,000) |
For comprehensive guidance on supporting documents for UK visa applications, including financial evidence requirements, see our detailed guide. Bangladeshi applicants should pay particular attention to ensuring bank statements show a consistent savings pattern rather than sudden large deposits, which frequently trigger refusals.
UK Student Visa from Bangladesh
The UK Student visa for Bangladeshi citizens costs ৳90,061 plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per year (student rate). The student visa ratio from Bangladesh is 84%, significantly better than visitor visas, though below the global average of 95%. In the year ending September 2025, 14,104 Bangladeshis applied for student visas with 1,684 refused.
The UK Student visa permits Bangladeshi nationals to study at licensed UK institutions with a valid Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). The visa allows part-time work during studies — 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays for degree-level courses.
UK student visa ratio from Bangladesh 2025
Bangladesh ranks #7 globally for UK student visa applications. The 84% grant rate, while decent, is below the global average of 95%. China achieves 99%, India 96%, and Pakistan 92%. Bangladeshi students face greater scrutiny around financial evidence and genuine student intent.
UK student visa fee for Bangladeshi: total cost breakdown
| Cost Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Student Visa Application Fee | ৳90,061 |
| IHS (per year, student rate) | £776 |
| Maintenance funds (London) | £1,334/month (9 months) |
| Maintenance funds (outside London) | £1,023/month (9 months) |
| Priority processing (optional) | ৳85,937 |
Bangladeshi students must demonstrate they can cover both tuition fees and living costs for at least 9 months. After graduation, students can access the Graduate route for post-study work. The Short-term Study visa (৳36,781 for 6-11 months) is available for English language courses that do not lead to a qualification.
UK Family Visa from Bangladesh
UK family visa applications from Bangladesh have an 88% success rate — the best outcome among all visa categories for Bangladeshi nationals. The spouse visa costs ৳333,089 with processing times of up to 12 weeks. The UK sponsor must meet the £29,000 minimum income requirement, increasing to £38,700 by 2027.
Family visas are the most successful route for Bangladeshi applicants. In the year ending September 2025, 2,268 Bangladeshis applied for family visas with 2,052 granted — an 88% success rate. This reflects the strength of genuine relationships with British citizens and settled persons.
The UK Spouse visa is the most common family route for Bangladeshi nationals. Requirements include proving a genuine relationship, meeting the financial requirement (£29,000 minimum income or equivalent savings), and demonstrating adequate accommodation.
UK spouse visa requirements from Bangladesh
- Genuine relationship: Photos, communication records, visit history, meeting evidence
- Financial requirement: UK sponsor earning minimum £29,000 annually (increasing to £38,700)
- English language: A1 level for initial application, A2 for extension
- Accommodation: Adequate housing that will not be overcrowded
- Application fee: ৳333,089 plus IHS £1,035 per year
After initial approval, spouse visa holders can extend their visa and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years (or 10 years via the 10-year family route). The Adult Dependent Relative visa costs ৳586,601 and has stricter requirements including demonstrating that adequate care is not available in Bangladesh.
UK Work Permit Visa from Bangladesh
The UK work permit visa price from Bangladesh ranges from ৳50,278 (Health & Care Worker) to ৳127,183 (Skilled Worker, up to 3 years). Bangladesh has a concerning 51% work visa grant rate — the second-lowest after visitor visas. The Skilled Worker route specifically has just a 52% success rate with 2,581 refusals in the year ending September 2025.
Work visa applications from Bangladesh face severe scrutiny. Of 6,390 applications in the year ending September 2025, only 3,476 were granted (51%). The Skilled Worker route specifically shows a 52% grant rate with 2,581 refusals. Key challenges include meeting the £38,700 salary threshold, sponsor compliance, and document verification.
The Skilled Worker visa is the primary route for Bangladeshis seeking UK employment. Applicants need a job offer from a Home Office licensed sponsor meeting the £38,700 minimum salary threshold (or the "going rate" for the occupation, whichever is higher). Jobs on the Immigration Salary List qualify for discounted fees — ৳97,579 instead of ৳127,183 for applications up to 3 years.
The Health and Care Worker visa offers significantly reduced fees (৳50,278 for up to 3 years) and faster processing for NHS and social care roles. Other work routes include the Global Business Mobility visa for intra-company transfers (৳52,759). Successful work visa holders can eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years and subsequently British citizenship.
UK Transit Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
Bangladeshi citizens require a transit visa to pass through the UK, even without leaving the airport. The Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) costs ৳6,703, while the Visitor in Transit visa costs ৳12,031. Both are significantly cheaper than the Standard Visitor visa but serve different purposes.
| Transit Visa Type | Fee (BDT) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) | ৳6,703 | Changing flights without passing UK border control |
| Visitor in Transit | ৳12,031 | Passing through UK border control (up to 48 hours) |
Bangladesh is on the UK's DATV list, meaning Bangladeshi nationals need a visa even to transit through a UK airport without leaving the airside area. If you hold a valid visa, residence permit, or permanent residence card from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or an EEA country, you may be exempt from the DATV requirement.
How to Apply for UK Visa from Bangladesh
To apply for a UK visa from Bangladesh: complete the online application at gov.uk, pay the visa fee in BDT, book an appointment at VFS Global (Dhaka or Sylhet), attend for biometrics and document submission, then await the decision within 3 weeks for non-settlement visas or up to 12 weeks for settlement applications.
The UK visa application process for Bangladeshi citizens involves several steps. Unlike EU/EEA nationals and some other nationalities, Bangladeshis cannot use the UK Immigration: ID Check app for identity verification — all applications require an in-person appointment at a Visa Application Centre. Current visa decision waiting times are published by the Home Office and updated regularly.
VFS Bangladesh UK Visa Application Centres
- VFS Dhaka: 4th Floor, Delta Life Tower, Plot 37, Road 45, North Avenue, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212
- VFS Sylhet: 7th Floor, Nirvana Inn, Mirza Jungle Road, Ramerdhigir par, Sylhet 3100
For detailed guidance on completing the UK visa application form and understanding processing times after biometrics, see our comprehensive guides.
Bangladeshi diaspora in the UK
Approximately 600,000 people of Bangladeshi origin live in the United Kingdom, making it one of the largest Bangladeshi communities outside South Asia. Major concentrations are found in East London (particularly Tower Hamlets, where Bangladeshis comprise over 30% of the population), Birmingham, Manchester, and Luton. This established diaspora creates strong family connections driving visitor visa applications, though the challenging approval rates highlight the importance of thorough documentation.
- Visitor visa: 48% grant rate (LOWEST globally) — ৳21,828 for 6 months
- Student visa: 84% grant rate — ৳90,061 + IHS £776/year
- Family visa: 88% grant rate (BEST outcome) — ৳333,089 for spouse
- Work visa: 51% grant rate — ৳127,183 for Skilled Worker (3 years)
- Processing: 3 weeks (non-settlement), 12 weeks (settlement), priority available
FAQs: UK Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
How much is the UK visa fee in Bangladesh 2026?
UK visa fees in Bangladesh for 2026 are paid in BDT at the Home Office exchange rate of 1 GBP = ৳171.874: 6-month visitor visa ৳21,828, student visa ৳90,061, skilled worker visa ৳127,183 (up to 3 years), health and care worker ৳50,278, and spouse visa ৳333,089. Additional costs include IHS (£776/year student, £1,035/year standard) and optional priority service (৳85,937).
What is the UK visa ratio from Bangladesh 2025?
The UK visa ratio (success rate) from Bangladesh varies by category: visitor visa 48% (lowest globally), student visa 84%, family visa 88% (highest), and work visa 51%. According to Home Office statistics for year ending September 2025, Bangladesh faces the highest refusal rates among major nationalities.
How long does UK visa processing take from Bangladesh?
Standard UK visa processing time from Bangladesh is approximately 3 weeks for non-settlement visas (visitor, student, work) and up to 12 weeks for settlement visas (spouse, family). Priority service reduces non-settlement processing to 5 working days (৳85,937) and settlement to 6 weeks (৳85,937).
Why is the UK visit visa ratio so low from Bangladesh?
Bangladesh's 48% visitor visa grant rate reflects heightened Home Office scrutiny around several factors: concerns about overstaying intentions, insufficient evidence of ties to Bangladesh, questionable financial documentation (including unexplained large deposits), and document authenticity verification challenges. Applicants should provide comprehensive evidence of employment, property, family ties, and consistent savings history.
What are UK spouse visa requirements from Bangladesh?
UK spouse visa requirements from Bangladesh include: genuine relationship evidence (photos, communication records, meeting history), UK sponsor earning minimum £29,000 annually (increasing to £38,700), adequate accommodation, English language requirement (A1 level), and ৳333,089 application fee plus IHS at £1,035 per year. Processing takes up to 12 weeks with an 88% approval rate — the highest of any Bangladesh visa category.
What is the UK student visa ratio from Bangladesh?
The UK student visa ratio from Bangladesh is 84% (year ending September 2025), with 14,104 applications and 1,684 refusals. While significantly better than visitor visas, it remains below the global student visa average of 95%. Key requirements include a valid CAS from a licensed sponsor, proof of funds (tuition plus living costs for 9 months), and genuine student intent.
Where is the UK visa application centre in Bangladesh?
VFS Global operates two UK Visa Application Centres in Bangladesh: VFS Dhaka at 4th Floor, Delta Life Tower, Plot 37, Road 45, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212; and VFS Sylhet at 7th Floor, Nirvana Inn, Mirza Jungle Road, Sylhet 3100. Appointments are booked online through the VFS Global website after completing the UK visa application on gov.uk.
How many Bangladeshi live in the UK?
Approximately 600,000 people of Bangladeshi heritage live in the United Kingdom, making it one of the largest South Asian diaspora communities. The highest concentrations are in East London (Tower Hamlets has over 30% Bangladeshi population), Birmingham, Manchester, and Luton. This established community creates strong family ties driving visitor and spouse visa applications.
Is UK priority visa available from Bangladesh?
Yes, priority visa processing is available from Bangladesh for most visa categories at ৳85,937 (£500), reducing non-settlement processing to 5 working days. Settlement priority (৳85,937) reduces spouse and family visa processing to approximately 6 weeks. Super priority (next working day, ৳171,874) is not consistently available at VFS Bangladesh — check availability when booking your appointment.
What is the UK work permit visa price from Bangladesh?
UK work permit visa prices from Bangladesh in 2026: Skilled Worker visa ৳127,183 (up to 3 years) or ৳251,224 (over 3 years), Health and Care Worker ৳50,278 (up to 3 years), Immigration Salary List discount ৳97,579 (up to 3 years), and Global Business Mobility ৳52,759. IHS of £1,035 per year and the £38,700 minimum salary threshold apply. The work visa grant rate from Bangladesh is just 51%.