Dhaka,Bangladesh:Expatriates will begin receiving Machine-Readable Passports (MRPs) starting from December 15, as announced by Professor Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Ministry of Law, Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare, and Overseas Employment. The announcement comes as a major relief for Bangladeshi expatriates who have been struggling with expired passports, causing difficulties in renewing visas, traveling for urgent matters, and other travel-related issues, especially in countries like Saudi Arabia, Italy, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates.
In a video message shared on social media, Professor Asif Nazrul assured expatriates that the long-standing passport issues would soon be resolved. He emphasized that the issuance of MRPs would begin on December 15, and those who have already applied would receive their new passports within three to four weeks. This development marks a significant step towards easing the challenges faced by millions of Bangladeshis living abroad.
Nazrul stated that priority would be given to expatriates in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, two of the largest destinations for Bangladeshi workers. After addressing the demand in these countries, the process would be extended to other regions within three to four weeks. The government’s swift action is expected to eliminate the delays and frustrations often experienced by expatriates due to outdated passports.
Professor Asif Nazrul’s intervention in resolving the passport issue has been hailed as a groundbreaking move, particularly considering the critical role expatriates play in Bangladesh’s economy through remittances. His efforts to address this issue highlight his commitment to improving the welfare of Bangladesh’s global workforce and ensuring they are equipped with the proper documentation for their international travel needs.
The government’s decision to issue MRPs is a historic step, making it easier for expatriates to navigate their travel and visa processes. It also aligns Bangladesh with global standards in passport security, further supporting the nation’s international relations. This change is set to greatly benefit the expatriate community, providing them with timely solutions for their long-standing passport challenges.
