Colombo beckons Bangladeshis amid visa hurdles

Sri Lanka's gradual economic recovery is opening new doors for Bangladeshi expatriates, with opportunities emerging in tourism, garments, construction, manufacturing and services. But visa and work-permit complications, job insecurity, salary disputes and inadequate legal protection continue to cloud their prospects.

The South Asian island nation, which weathered a severe economic crisis in 2022, is now regaining its economic footing. Fresh investments are flowing into several sectors, creating potential openings for skilled and semi-skilled foreign workers. The World Bank has projected Sri Lanka's economy to grow by 4.4 per cent in 2026, reinforcing hopes of a broader recovery.

However, Sri Lanka’s administrative procedures regarding the recruitment and employment authorization of foreign workers are often complicated. Bangladeshis may face legal risks if they work on tourist visas, change jobs without proper authorization or remain in the country after their visas expire. In addition, there are concerns over recruitment-related fraud, failure to receive promised salaries and dissatisfaction with working conditions. On the other hand, skilled Bangladeshi workers have employment opportunities in Sri Lanka’s tourism, hotel management, information technology, engineering, garment and manufacturing industries. In particular, technical skills, language proficiency and professional training could increase their employment prospects in these sectors.

Commercial relations between the two countries could also open new avenues of opportunity. Bangladesh has the potential to export pharmaceuticals, ready-made garments, textiles and various industrial products to Sri Lanka. At the same time, opportunities for joint investment could emerge in food processing, information technology and tourism.

In this situation, it is essential to establish a comprehensive database to determine the exact number, occupations and legal status of Bangladeshis living in Sri Lanka. Regular engagement with expatriates, legal assistance, effective complaint resolution and improved emergency consular services through the Bangladesh High Commission are also necessary.