Apply Malawi eVisa from Bangladesh

Planning a trip from Bangladesh to the "Warm Heart of Africa"? Malawi offers incredible experiences, from the pristine beaches of Lake Malawi to the wildlife reserves of Majete. However, before you board your flight from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC), securing the correct travel documentation is essential.

For Bangladeshi citizens, the process has become significantly streamlined thanks to the Malawi eVisa system. You no longer need to worry about lengthy appointments or couriering your passport to a distant embassy. This guide covers everything you need to know to apply for your Malawi eVisa from Bangladesh.

Do Bangladeshi Citizens Need a Visa for Malawi?

Yes, citizens of Bangladesh are required to hold a valid visa to enter the Republic of Malawi. Bangladesh is not on the visa-exempt list; therefore, travel authorization is mandatory before you travel.

Fortunately, Bangladeshi passport holders are fully eligible for the Malawi eVisa (Electronic Visa). This digital platform allows you to apply, pay, and receive your official visa approval entirely online from the comfort of your home in Dhaka, Chittagong, or Sylhet.

Why Use an Agent Service Instead of Applying Directly?

While the government portal is available, many Bangladeshi travelers prefer using a professional visa agent or service to ensure success. Here is why expert assistance is often the smarter choice:

• Guaranteed Error-Free Application: One small typo or a blurry document scan can lead to an instant rejection, often with no refund of the fee. Agents manually review every detail of your application before submission to ensure 100% accuracy.
• Document Formatting: The Malawi system has strict technical requirements for file sizes and formats. A service will resize and convert your passport scans and photos to meet these standards, saving you technical headaches.
• Payment Success: International payments from Bangladesh can sometimes be tricky due to banking restrictions on foreign currency transactions. Agents provide secure, reliable payment gateways that work seamlessly.
• 24/7 Support: If you have a question late at night or need an update, professional services offer round-the-clock support, unlike government portals.

What Types of Malawi eVisas Are Available?

Depending on your reason for travel, you can choose from several visa categories. Selecting the correct one is vital for approval.

1. Tourist eVisa

This is the standard visa for leisure, holiday, or visiting friends.

• Single Entry: Valid for 90 days.
• Multiple Entry (6 Months): Valid for 180 days.
• Multiple Entry (12 Months): Valid for 1 year.

2. Business eVisa

If you are traveling from Bangladesh for trade, conferences, or client meetings, this is the correct category. It permits short-term business activities but is not a work permit.

3. Transit eVisa

Designed for travelers passing through Malawi to a third destination. This visa is valid for 7 days and allows a Single Entry.

How long is an eVisa valid?

It is common to confuse visa validity with stay duration.

• Visa Validity: This is the window of time you have to enter Malawi (e.g., 90 days from the date of issue).
• Stay Allowance: Once you arrive, the immigration officer will grant you a permit to stay, typically for 30 days initially.
• Extensions: If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension at a local immigration office in Malawi (usually up to a maximum total of 90 days for tourists).

What documents are needed for a visa application?

The Malawi eVisa system requires clear digital scans. Ensure you have the following Malawi eVisa Requirements ready (usually in JPG or PNG format):

• Valid Passport: A clear color scan of your passport's bio-data page (the page with your photo and details). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended arrival date.
• Recent Photograph: A passport-sized digital photo taken against a white background. Ensure your face is clearly visible without heavy glasses or headgear (unless for religious reasons).
• Covering Letter: A signed letter explaining the purpose of your visit.
• For Tourism: A letter from your host in Malawi or a confirmed hotel booking.
• For Business: An invitation letter from the company in Malawi and a letter from your employer in Bangladesh.
• Proof of Funds: In some cases, a recent bank statement may be requested to show you can support yourself during the stay.

What are the photo requirements for a visa?

Your visa photo must meet specific standards to be accepted by the system:

• Background: Must be a plain white background.
• Expression: Neutral facial expression with mouth closed and eyes open.
• Size: Standard passport size (35x45mm or 2x2 inches).
• Format: JPEG or PNG format, usually under 300KB in size.
• No Accessories: Remove glasses, hats, or large jewelry that obscures the face.

Do kids need an eVisa?

Yes. Every traveler, regardless of age, must have their own valid visa.

• Separate Application: You must submit a separate eVisa application for each child.
• Required Documents for Minors:

1. Birth Certificate: A clear copy showing the names of both parents.
2. Consent Letter: A signed letter from both parents authorizing the travel. If the child is traveling with only one parent, the non-traveling parent must sign the consent letter.
3. Passport & Photo: The child's own passport and recent photo.

How long does it take to get Malawi eVisa?

It is wise to apply well before your travel date. Based on current processing standards:

• Normal Processing: Takes approximately 6 - 9 Working Days.
• Rush Processing: Takes approximately 4 - 7 Working Days.
• Super Rush Processing: Takes approximately 3 - 5 Working Days.

Note: These are estimates. Apply at least 10-14 days in advance to account for any unforeseen delays.

How to apply for Malawi eVisa?

1. Fill the Online Form: Select "Bangladesh" as your nationality. Enter your details exactly as they appear on your passport.
2. Upload Documents: Attach the clear scans of your passport, photo, and covering letter.
3. Pay the Fee: complete the payment securely online.
4. Wait for Approval: Your application is reviewed by the Malawi Department of Immigration.
5. Download and Print: Once approved, the approval letter is sent to your email. Print this document and carry it with you to show immigration officers.

Why Was My Malawi eVisa Rejected?

Common reasons for rejection for Bangladeshi applicants include:

• Blurry Scans: If the text on your passport scan is unreadable.
• Missing Host Letter: Applying for a "Visit" visa without a signed invitation letter from your host in Malawi.
• Passport Validity: Passport expiring in less than 6 months.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bangladesh to Malawi is an exciting journey. By choosing the Malawi eVisa, you ensure a secure and hassle-free entry into the country. Remember to check your passport validity, prepare your documents clearly, and apply at least two weeks in advance.