When is the best time to move to Bangladesh?

October to February is ideal — the weather is cool and dry (15–25°C), air quality is better (though still poor), and it avoids the oppressive summer heat (35–40°C) and monsoon flooding (June–September). November and January are particularly pleasant months.

How long does it take to ship belongings to Bangladesh?

Sea freight from the US or Europe takes 6–10 weeks, plus 1–3 weeks for customs clearance. Air freight takes 5–7 days. Many expats recommend shipping only essentials and buying furniture and household items locally, which is very affordable.

What should I bring from home?

Bring electronics (laptops, phones — cheaper and better selection abroad), prescription medications (3-month supply), an air purifier, lightweight modest clothing, and important documents. Don't ship furniture — it's very affordable locally. Western-sized clothing and specific international brands may be hard to find.

Do I need a car in Bangladesh?

No. Most expats hire a private driver with a car ($300–$500/month total) rather than driving themselves. Dhaka's chaotic traffic, poor road conditions, and unfamiliar driving customs make self-driving extremely challenging. Rideshare apps (Pathao, Uber) are good alternatives for occasional trips.

How do I find domestic help in Bangladesh?

Ask colleagues, expat community groups, or your employer's HR department for recommendations. References are important — ask for at least 2–3 from previous employers. A cook costs $90–$180/month, a cleaner $60–$120/month, and a driver $135–$225/month. Treat staff well — they often become invaluable to expat life.

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🇧🇩 Bangladesh

Moving Guide

Moving to Bangladesh requires careful planning around visa arrangements, shipping logistics, health preparations, and cultural orientation. The country's infrastructure challenges mean you'll want to prepare thoroughly before arrival — from vaccinations and insurance to identifying your neighborhood and setting up domestic help..

6–10 weeks

Shipping Time

Sea freight from US/EU

Variable

Customs Duty

On imported goods

Oct–Feb

Best Arrival Month

Cool, dry season

2–4 weeks

Setup Time

For apartment + essentials

Last updated: March 2026

Overview🏙️Dhaka ⚓Chittagong

🛂Visa 🏥Healthcare 💰Finance 🏠Housing 💼Working 🌆Daily Life ✈️Moving 📚Education 🌅Lifestyle 📈Investing

Overview

Key Takeaways

Visa: arrange employment visa through your employer or apply for appropriate visa category
Sea freight: 6–10 weeks from US/EU ports — cost varies by volume ($2,000–$5,000 for standard shipment)
Temporary accommodation: stay at a serviced apartment or hotel (Gulshan recommended) while apartment hunting

Before You Move — Essential Checklist

Preparation is key for a successful move to Bangladesh. Unlike more established expat destinations, Bangladesh requires extra planning around health, logistics, and expectations. Starting your preparation 3–6 months before your move date is recommended.

Visa: arrange employment visa through your employer or apply for appropriate visa category
Vaccinations: get Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies, Tetanus — 4–6 weeks before travel
Health insurance: purchase international coverage with medical evacuation — Cigna, Allianz, or Bupa
Documents: notarize and apostille educational certificates, marriage certificate, and birth certificates
Finances: notify your bank about international use; set up Wise account for transfers
Research: join 'Expats in Dhaka' Facebook groups — invaluable for practical advice
Medication: bring a 3-month supply of any prescription medicines with doctors' letters
Power adapters: Bangladesh uses Type C, D, G, and K sockets — bring universal adapters

Shipping & What to Bring

Shipping to Bangladesh is possible but the customs process can be slow and bureaucratic. Many expats opt to ship only essential items and purchase furniture and household goods locally at very affordable prices. Air freight is faster but expensive; sea freight takes 6–10 weeks from major ports.

Sea freight: 6–10 weeks from US/EU ports — cost varies by volume ($2,000–$5,000 for standard shipment)
Air freight: 5–7 days — expensive but practical for essential items
Customs clearance: can take 1–3 weeks — use a reputable clearing agent
Duty-free allowance: personal effects are generally exempt with proper documentation
Electronics: bring laptops, phones, and gadgets — prices are higher locally
Clothing: lightweight, modest clothing — available locally but Western sizes may be limited
Don't ship furniture: very affordable to buy locally — better quality available at Hatirjheel and Gulshan markets
Air purifier: essential purchase — bring one or buy upon arrival (available at electronics shops)

Your First Weeks in Bangladesh

The first few weeks in Bangladesh are about getting oriented, setting up your home, and adjusting to a very different pace of life. Having a local contact — colleague, employer's HR team, or fellow expat — is invaluable for navigating the initial settlement process.

Temporary accommodation: stay at a serviced apartment or hotel (Gulshan recommended) while apartment hunting
SIM card: get a Grameenphone SIM — requires passport and local address (available at any GP shop)
Bank account: open with employer assistance — Standard Chartered or HSBC are most expat-friendly
Domestic help: ask colleagues or expat groups for recommendations — references are important
Grocery orientation: visit Unimart (Gulshan) for imported goods and Agora for local + imported mix
Medical registration: identify your nearest private hospital (United Hospital or Evercare in Gulshan)
Join expat communities: American Club, Nordic Club, British Club — excellent for networking and social life
Explore: visit Old Dhaka, Lalbagh Fort, and Sadarghat river terminal for cultural orientation