Security Clearance for Expatriate Workers in Bangladesh

1.What is security clearance?

Security clearance is a process by which the government of Bangladesh assesses an individual's eligibility to access classified information. The purpose of security clearance is to protect national security by ensuring that only those individuals who have been vetted and found to be trustworthy are granted access to classified information. Two institution under Home Ministry such as SB (Special Branch) and NSI (National Service Intelligent) conduct security clearance report, if the report is positive, the respective foreigner can work and stay at a long 5 years in a same company through yearly work permit extension.

2. Importance of Security Clearance

Security clearances are essential when expatriates are asked to conduct business and work in nations such as Bangladesh. To protect both individual and national security, the hosting company must be registered with BIDA and RJSC. Moreover, the government agencies such as the Special Branch office (SB) and National Security Intelligence (NSI) thoroughly analyze and verify all pertinent papers. This approach protects the interests of all parties involved by ensuring a secure environment while allowing business operations. 

3. Who Provides Security Clearance

As an authority, the Home Ministry-People's Republic of Bangladesh gives security clearance under a specific company. During an investigation by SB and NSI authorities, the investigation report is provided to the Home Ministry. The Security Clearance Report must be approved by the Govt Secretary of the Home Ministry after receiving a constructive report from both parties.

4. Positive & Negative Report-Security Clearance?

The secretary issues clearance permission based on the SB and NSI evaluations. All legal documentation must be submitted to both authorities by the expatriates. If all of the records are in order, the Ministry of Home Affairs will issue an acceptable report. Failure to present required papers, offering misleading information, or being unavailable during the investigation, on the other hand, may result in a negative report from the SB and NSI. This underscores the need of accurate information and collaboration during the Security Clearance process.

 5. The Consequence of Negative Report !

 In most cases, where Security Clearance is not present, the immigration authority provides visa extensions for a maximum of three (3) months. If an applicant fails to secure security clearance, the authority may consider providing a 3-month extension. Once security clearance is received, the visa authority verifies the validity of the work permit and provides the visa. This highlights the critical role that security clearance plays when assessing visa extensions and eligibility.

 4. Required Documents for Security Clearance of Foreigners in Bangladesh:

Here we have shared relevant information need for security clearance from both SB (Special Branch) and NSI (National Service Intelligent) of  the ministry of Home Affairs. 

Please find the Direction of Security Clearance,  FORM 2  and list of information checklist below;

• Application form, Appointment letter, Board Resolution
• Contract Paper, Chain of ends client relations (if any)
• Appointment certificate from concern ministry (NOC).
• Updated CV/Resume of the applicant
• Recommendation from the institution.
• Previous Security Clearance.
• Visa recommendation (LOR)
• Permission letter of the institution.
• Photocopy of the full passport and visa of the employee.
• Bank Account & Bank Statement/Salary Statement
• Update Trade License (Photocopy)
• Any other documents (if required)

7. What is a No Objection Certificate (NOC)?

A NOC, or No Objection Certificate, is a document issued by the Home Ministry that allows a foreign national to work and stay in Bangladesh. The NOC is typically required for foreign nationals who will be working in sensitive or government-related positions.

8. How to obtain security clearance and a NOC in Bangladesh:

The process for obtaining security clearance and a NOC in Bangladesh is as follows:

1. The employer must submit an application to the Home Ministry.

2. The application must include the following documents:

3.  A copy of the foreign national's passport

4. A copy of the foreign national's work permit

5. A copy of the foreign national's CV

6. A letter from the employer stating the purpose of the foreign national's employment in Bangladesh

7. The Home Ministry will review the application and may conduct an investigation.

8. If the application is approved, the Home Ministry will issue a NOC.

Note:

The security clearance process in Bangladesh can take several months to complete. The cost of obtaining a NOC in Bangladesh varies depending on the length of stay and the type of employment.

 9. Who are Eligible for Security Clearance in Bangladesh

Any foreign employer who intends to Get Security Clearance is eligible to make this application.

10. Fees for Security Clearance in Bangladesh

The applicant has to pay the prescribed fee as requested by the authority.

11. Processing Time for Security Clearance

This entire process can be completed within 7-14 working days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority, however its takes 25-60 working days based on the requirements.

FAQ ?

1) What if, I don’t get positive security clearance, what’s the solution?

Ans:  You should immediately re-apply for security clearance through home ministry without fail.

2) I haven’t received security clearance yet, whether my visa validity is already ended, But I have 1 year work permit, what should I do?

Ans : Without security clearance, you won’t get visa Extension. So, it’s foremost. Also, It’s better to leave within your Visa validity, as there is overstay fees for each day and can’t stay more than 3 months

3) I have 1 year Work Permit and 1 Year Visa, however, haven’t received Security clearance yet, how can I get Visa extension and new work permit?

Ans: You should immediately re-apply for Security clearance & consult with the respective authority, although you have to pay over stay fees if you stay more than your visa validity. If not possible, take immediate exist and collect new visa to Enter again in Bangladesh.

 For  Security Clearance, Work Permit and Expatriate visa related any queries, you can Whats App: +8801915173971

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