Foreign workers must get security clearance via Bida OSS

The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (Bida) has made it mandatory for every foreign investor and employee to obtain security clearance for work permits exclusively through Bida's One Stop Service (OSS) portal.

Bida sources said the OSS portal requirement takes effect today for all foreign workers.

If no objection is raised during verification, the clearance will be deemed automatically approved within 21 working days.

Failure to apply for security clearance within the stipulated timeframe mentioned in the work permit will result in the automatic cancellation of the permit.

Speaking on the development, Bida Executive Chairman Ashiq Chowdhury said: "The digitisation of the security clearance process will allow investors to receive services that are faster, more transparent, and more reliable. We believe this reform will play a significant role in making Bangladesh more investment-friendly."

"We are especially grateful to the Ministry of Home Affairs for their support in implementing this important step with the investors' experience in mind."

Senior Home Secretary Nasimul Ghani also welcomed the move, stating: "The digital security clearance process will strengthen inter-agency coordination and simplify visa- and work permit-related services for foreign investors.

"The home ministry will continue close coordination with Bida to ensure service quality and operational efficiency," he said.

The decision to go fully digital followed a high-level inter-agency meeting held at Bida headquarters on September 2 this year, chaired by the Bida executive chairman and attended by Ghani.

Representatives from the Department of Immigration and Passports, law enforcement agencies, and investment promotion bodies were also present.

These reforms are expected to be completed by December 2025, aiming to make Bangladesh's investment climate more efficient, transparent, and globally competitive.