Banking & Finance
- See the data table below for detailed numbers
- Check the FAQ section for common expat questions
- Use our free assessment to get personalised results
Cash or card? Local bank or digital? In Bangladesh, the answer depends on where you live and how long you're staying.
Banking Overview in Bangladesh
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | Bangladeshi taka (BDT) ৳ |
| Bank Account for Foreigners | May be possible — confirm with the bank |
| Access Difficulty | Medium |
| Remote Opening | No |
| Wise Available | No |
| N26 Available | No |
Opening a Bank Account in Bangladesh
Foreign nationals may be able to open a bank account in Bangladesh, but we have not independently verified this — confirm the current rules directly with the bank, in writing, before you rely on it. The process difficulty is rated as medium, which means you should expect some bureaucracy and possibly language barriers.
Required Documents
- Valid passport or national ID
- Proof of address / residence registration
- Residence permit (if applicable)
- Tax identification number (if available)
- Initial deposit (amount varies by bank)
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Banks in Bangladesh — remote & non-resident opening
Named banks operating in Bangladesh, and what our automated research found about non-resident remote account opening (no branch visit required). This has not been verified by a human reviewer — use it as a starting point and confirm directly with the bank.
| Bank | Remote opening | Confidence | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| BRAC Bank PLC | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Probashi virtual account remote but for Bangladeshi NRBs needing BD passport NID not foreign nationals. |
| Dutch-Bangla Bank PLC | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Medium | FC accounts for NRBs and foreigners but foreign nationals generally need in-person KYC or local docs. |
| Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | Foreigners need visa work permit and a branch or nominee visit final verification in person. |
| Pubali Bank PLC | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | Medium | PIA online and FC accounts target NRBs and residents; foreign nationals not onboarded fully remote. |
| Sonali Bank PLC | May require an in-person visit — confirm with the bank directly | High | NFCD by post needs docs verified by BD mission abroad designed for Bangladeshis not foreigners. |
Last checked 2026-06-22 · Source: official bank websites, gathered via automated research that has not been reviewed by our founder — treat every row as a lead, not a verified fact, and confirm directly with the bank before you rely on it. Research confidence: High = clear supporting evidence found · Medium = partial or indirect evidence · Low = weak or conflicting evidence · Unrated = no confidence assessment recorded (unreviewed automated research).
Digital Banking Options
Wise (TransferWise)
Wise has limited availability in Bangladesh. While you may be able to send money to Bangladesh, full local account features may not be available. Check their website for the latest on Bangladesh-specific services.
N26
We have no record of N26 operating in Bangladesh — check N26's own country list, as their coverage changes. You may need to consider local digital bank alternatives or traditional banks.
International Transfers
When transferring money to or from Bangladesh, consider these factors:
- Exchange rate: The currency is BDT. Always compare the offered rate with the mid-market rate.
- Transfer fees: Transfer fees vary — compare providers like Wise for the best rates.
- Transfer speed: Bank-to-bank (SWIFT) transfers take 2-5 business days. Digital services often complete within 1-2 days.
- Regular transfers: If sending money home regularly, set up a recurring transfer to lock in better rates.
Salary and Everyday Banking
The average salary in Bangladesh is approximately €254 per month. Your employer will typically require a local bank account for salary deposits. Most banks offer:
- Debit card (Visa or Mastercard)
- Online banking portal and mobile app
- Direct debit setup for rent and utilities
- ATM withdrawals (check fee policies)
Tips for Expats
- Set up online banking immediately: Most routine transactions can be handled online or via app, saving you queues and branch visits.
- Use a multi-currency card: A multi-currency travel card (Wise, Revolut) saves you exchange fees during the transition period.
- Open your account early: Visit a bank branch within your first week. Having a local account speeds up everything from rent to mobile contracts.
- Carry cash for the first week: Card acceptance varies. Have enough local currency to cover taxis, meals, and small purchases until your account is active.
- Keep your home bank account: Maintain an account in your home country for at least the first year, in case you need to transfer funds back.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
Can I open a bank account in Bangladesh as a foreigner?
Yes, foreigners can open bank accounts in Bangladesh. The difficulty level is rated as medium. You will typically need your passport, proof of address (registration), and sometimes a residence permit.
Can I get a credit card as an expat in Bangladesh?
Credit card availability for expats in Bangladesh depends on your income history and residency status. Some banks require 6-12 months of salary deposits before offering credit. Start with a debit card and apply for credit later.
What is the local currency in Bangladesh?
The local currency in Bangladesh is Bangladeshi taka (BDT), represented by the symbol ৳. Most payments can be made by card, though cash may still be important in some contexts.
What happens to my bank account if I leave Bangladesh?
Most banks in Bangladesh allow you to keep your account open even after leaving, though some may require an address in Bangladesh. It is advisable to switch to a basic or non-resident account to avoid unnecessary fees. Close standing orders and direct debits before leaving.
Does Wise (TransferWise) work in Bangladesh?
Wise has limited functionality in Bangladesh. You may need to rely on traditional banks for transfers.
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About the author
António Mira is the founder of whereTOemigrate. For over a decade he has worked at the intersection of Portuguese real estate and overseas business, helping international clients navigate the cross-border decisions that come with relocating. He sits on the board of CCIAP (Portuguese-Arab Chamber of Commerce), the Portuguese-Saudi Business Council, and the Portugal-Hong Kong Business Association — always with one focus: enabling overseas business and human mobility into and out of Portugal.
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