Bangladesh

Bangladesh is an Asian country which doesn't have a very developed tourist sector. Visa rules are in a constant state of flux, but visas for extended stays are generally very difficult to obtain with local contacts.

Visa On Arrival
Getting a visa for Bangladesh on arrival (a.k.a. landing permit) at the International Airport in Dhaka may be possible, but this method is not recommended and should not be relied upon without clear investigation in advance. If available, they tend to be only for a short time (e.g. 14 days) and to be more expensive than a visa obtained in advance.

Tourist Visas
Single-entry tourist visas are generally available for 1-2 months stays. These are sometimes available in nearby countries, though this changes so up to date information is needed to prevent mishap. The simplest place to get a visa is in your home country (if an embassy is available). Many embassies accept postal applications, which may be easiest. Although not a well publicised possibility, once you are in Dhaka, it is often possible to extend tourist visas for a total of up to 3 months - and if you with to try this, the sooner you do this the better.

Passport holders of most countries find it difficult to stay in Bangladesh for more than 3 months with a Tourist (T) visa. Seek advice from local contacts about this possibility.

Other Visa Classes
Bangladeshi visas have different classes, issued by different branches of the Bangladesh government and governed by different regulations. Generally, this need not concern the tourist, whose options will be limited to a 'T' (tourist) visa. Users of other visas will probably not be responsible for their own visas anyway. For example, if you are traveling to Bangladesh for employment in the educational sector, an 'E' visa is applicable, in which case your employer should be able to sort this out for you.

Changing Classes
Changing visa classes is problematic. For example, if you arrive with a 'T' visa, it is difficult to replace this with an 'E' visa. Generally, it is easier to leave the country and re-enter with an 'E' visa. Often this will entail a trip back to your home country, bearing requisite proof of employment or other supporting documentation for presentation at the embassy.

Overstaying
Overstaying your visa in Bangladesh can be an expensive business (a daily charge is applied), and may well prevent you from re-entering the country. To prevent problems, be aware of the possibility of disturbances such as hartals or random office closures and bear this in mind when scheduling travel. hitch:Bangladesh nomad:Bangladesh