The Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) has introduced mandatory digital security clearance for all foreign investors and employees, to be processed exclusively through its One Stop Service (OSS) portal.

The new requirement, effective from tomorrow, will apply to every foreign work permit. If no objections are raised during verification, the clearance will be automatically approved within 21 working days. Failure to apply within the stipulated timeframe will result in the permit being cancelled, officials said.

Bida Executive Chairman Ashiq Chowdhury said the reform would make investment services “faster, more transparent, and more reliable,” helping position Bangladesh as a more attractive destination for foreign capital. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Home Affairs for supporting the initiative.

Senior Home Secretary Nasimul Ghani welcomed the move, saying the digitised system would improve inter-agency coordination and simplify visa and work permit procedures. He added that the ministry would continue working with Bida to ensure smooth implementation.

The decision to digitise the process was finalised at a high-level inter-agency meeting on 2 September, attended by Bida, the Home Ministry, law enforcement bodies, and other agencies.

Officials said the broader reform programme, aimed at streamlining Bangladesh’s investment climate, is expected to be completed by December 2025.