- The best travel insurance plans for Bangladesh
- Is it currently safe to travel to Bangladesh?
- Is travel insurance a legal requirement for entering Bangladesh?
- Why You Need Travel Insurance for Bangladesh
- What Travel Insurance for Bangladesh Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Bangladesh
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Bangladesh
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Bangladesh?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Bangladesh: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Bangladesh covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unexpected travel-related problems.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises increased caution for travel to Bangladesh due to crime and terrorism.
3. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for travel to Bangladesh from the US.
4. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is costly; a hospital night can cost several hundred dollars for foreign visitors.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Bangladesh typically costs between $30 and $60 from the US.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes high coverage for medical evacuation to a nearby country with better facilities.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Bangladesh.
The best travel insurance plans for Bangladesh
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | A solid choice for travel to Bangladesh. - high reimbursement ceiling - repatriation included - strong support for medical emergencies |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Practical and responsive policy for US travelers. - 24/7 medical helpline - trip cancellation - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $550k | Good for tourism with essential benefits. - solid medical cover - emergency assistance - reasonable pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k | Balanced option for longer trips abroad. - repatriation cover - hospitalization - broad worldwide acceptance |
| Globe Partner | $330k | Reliable for most international stays. - foreign medical care - repatriation - civil liability guarantee |
| Globe Traveller | $550k | Suitable for short, lower-risk visits. - essential medical coverage - fast reimbursement - limited ceiling |
- high reimbursement ceiling
- repatriation included
- strong support for medical emergencies
- 24/7 medical helpline
- trip cancellation
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- emergency assistance
- reasonable pricing
- repatriation cover
- hospitalization
- broad worldwide acceptance
- foreign medical care
- repatriation
- civil liability guarantee
- essential medical coverage
- fast reimbursement
- limited ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Bangladesh?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State issues a Level 3 advisory: reconsider travel to Bangladesh due to the risk of civil unrest and intermittent political violence, particularly in the context of recent government transitions.
- Security risks: occasional violent demonstrations can break out in Dhaka or major cities with little warning. The Chittagong Hill Tracts region is considered especially dangerous due to armed clashes and is officially off-limits to travelers.
- Health risks: certain vaccinations, such as hepatitis A and typhoid, are compulsory, and others, including rabies and Japanese encephalitis, are strongly recommended. Dengue is present throughout the year, and the air quality in Dhaka may be hazardous from November to March, with limited access to advanced medical care outside the capital.
- Legal requirements: a Bangladeshi visa is required before traveling, and a passport must be valid for at least six months past your intended departure. Visitors arriving from yellow fever endemic zones must present a valid vaccination certificate.
- Cultural norms: dress is expected to be modest, especially near religious sites, and any form of demonstration, even peaceful, should be avoided, as participation or proximity can result in arrest or deportation.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Bangladesh.
Is travel insurance a legal requirement for entering Bangladesh?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for travelers from the US to enter Bangladesh.
It is still highly recommended to have travel insurance, as medical facilities in Bangladesh are limited and significant medical events often require evacuation to a third country. Insurance can help cover unexpected expenses like emergency medical care, repatriation, and trip interruptions, which can otherwise be costly.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Bangladesh, mainly because of the costly medical evacuations and the overall higher risk environment compared to many other destinations.
Why You Need Travel Insurance for Bangladesh
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Bangladesh.
In Bangladesh, public hospitals such as Dhaka Medical College Hospital may not meet Western standards and can be overcrowded, while private clinics like United Hospital in Dhaka or Square Hospitals offer better care but at high costs. Foreigners are generally advised to seek treatment in these private facilities, where medical fees, hospitalization, and advance payments can quickly add up.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and repatriation to the US in case of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Bangladesh.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at United Hospital, Dhaka | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 150,000 BDT ($1,400) | up to 100% (according to policy) |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 85,000 BDT ($800) | up to 100% (according to policy) |
| I need to be repatriated | 3,000,000 BDT ($28,000) | up to 100% (according to policy) |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 200,000 BDT ($1,900) | up to 100% (according to policy) |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions. It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Travel Insurance for Bangladesh Should Cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Bangladesh.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospitalization, consultations, medications and surgery for accidents or illness. We recommend a minimum of $100,000 in reimbursement limit. |
| ✈️ Emergency evacuation | Pays for transport to the nearest suitable hospital or back to US in case of serious illness or injury. We recommend at least $150,000 of coverage. |
| 💊 Repatriation | Covers the cost of returning the traveler’s body or supporting a medical evacuation to US after a major emergency. Suggested minimum: $100,000. |
| 🧳 Baggage & personal effects | Reimburses loss, theft or damage to luggage and valuables during travel. A limit of $1,500–$3,000 per person is advised. |
| 💸 Trip cancellation | Refunds prepaid non-refundable expenses if the trip must be cancelled for covered reasons like illness or unforeseen events. We recommend limits matched to your travel costs. |
| 🚑 24/7 assistance services | Provides emergency support, information and translation services throughout the trip. Ensure hotline is included and available in English. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability | Protects in case you inadvertently injure someone or cause property damage in Bangladesh. Recommended coverage: at least $100,000. |
| 📄 Legal assistance | Offers advice and help in dealing with legal issues encountered abroad. A limit of $10,000 or more is appropriate. |
We recommend a minimum of $100,000 in reimbursement limit.
We recommend at least $150,000 of coverage.
Suggested minimum: $100,000.
A limit of $1,500–$3,000 per person is advised.
We recommend limits matched to your travel costs.
Ensure hotline is included and available in English.
Recommended coverage: at least $100,000.
A limit of $10,000 or more is appropriate.
Most local travel insurance or credit card plans offer strict coverage limits and many exclusions. It is much safer to choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive benefits. You can compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online to receive coverage certification instantly.
The cost of travel insurance for Bangladesh
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $30 – $45 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $48 – $70 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $80 – $110 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $185 – $250 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of travel insurance is influenced by several key factors: your age, the duration of your stay, your destination, the coverage limits, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. It's important to keep these elements in mind to select the right policy that fits your needs and budget.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Bangladesh
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Bangladesh while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧑🦳 Traveler’s age | Age affects pricing, and some insurers use higher rates for older travelers. | Compare policies carefully, as Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🎒 Trip duration | Longer stays increase risk and cost, requiring higher coverage periods. | Buy insurance only for the actual days you are in Bangladesh to avoid overpaying for unused coverage. |
| 💵 Medical coverage limit | High costs for medical care or evacuation in Bangladesh due to limited local aid. | Choose the lowest coverage limit that still ensures all major risks are covered for your needs. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Number of travelers | Family or group policies may offer discounts compared to separate individual plans. | Look for group or family plans to enjoy reduced per-person rates and optimize your total insurance expenses. |
| ✈️ Purpose of travel | Certain activities (business, volunteering) may require specific or extended cover. | Exclude coverage for activities you will not need or participate in to lower the overall policy cost. |
| 🕑 Purchase timing | Buying early can prevent premium increases but late purchase may limit options. | Compare rates early, but buy only when your travel details are confirmed for the best pricing and flexibility. |
| 🛡️ Level of coverage | The range and limits of included benefits impact both premium and claims handling. | Opt for plans with essential medical and evacuation cover while skipping unnecessary add-ons to control cost. |
Important
Travel insurance is not required by law for travelers from the US to enter Bangladesh, but it is strongly recommended due to limited emergency support and health risks. Ensure medical evacuation is included in your plan.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Bangladesh?
It is completely reasonable to consider whether your current coverage—such as credit card insurance or private health insurance—can protect you during your trip to Bangladesh. Unfortunately, these insurances are often limited or insufficient abroad. Only travel insurance can guarantee emergency responses and care that meet the needs of trips outside the US.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Bangladesh? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicaid, Medicare) | No, never | No coverage for medical expenses, evacuation, or emergency care outside the US. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in medical care and evacuation, 24/7 worldwide support. |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield) | Yes, partly | Possible emergency care, max limit $50,000, usually excludes repatriation or extended stay. | Travel insurance can reimburse $100,000+ in local expenses and includes repatriation. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash, Wells Fargo Active Cash) | Yes, partly | Emergency health advances up to $2,500, rarely covers baggage loss or trip cancellation. | Travel insurance offers $100,000+ and includes luggage loss, delay, and cancellation. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical up to $25,000, limited baggage and delay coverage, rarely evacuation. | Travel insurance includes $100,000+ in medical/emergency, baggage delay, and all travel days. |
Example
While visiting Dhaka, Maria contracted severe dengue fever, requiring intensive care. The private hospital bill was $8,000. Her US health insurance considered it 'out-of-network,' covering only $500. Her Chase bank card's travel benefits didn't apply to medical emergencies, leaving her to pay the remaining $7,500 out-of-pocket.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Critical situations, like trip interruption for a relative's illness or death, might be excluded. Read your policy carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Bangladesh?
Yes, all US citizens need a visa to travel to Bangladesh. You can apply for a visa before your trip at the Embassy of Bangladesh or request a visa on arrival at certain entry points. However, advance application is strongly recommended. Your passport must be valid for at least six months with at least one blank page. Also, an onward or return ticket is required for entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Bangladesh?
- Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool.
- Carefully check cover and exclusions, paying attention to health risks in Bangladesh such as required vaccinations, risk of dengue, and possible civil unrest.
- Purchase your selected plan online.
- Once payment is confirmed, you will receive your insurance certificate, typically by email.
What medical risks should travelers to Bangladesh be aware of?
Travelers should be prepared for diseases such as dengue, hepatitis A, and typhoid, which require vaccination. Medical facilities can be basic outside major cities and access may be limited, so it is important to have coverage for medical evacuation. Urban air quality, especially in Dhaka, is often poor and can worsen respiratory conditions.
Are there regions in Bangladesh that travelers should avoid?
Yes, the Chittagong Hill Tracts, including Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban districts, are classified as Level 4 "Do Not Travel" zones. Political violence, armed groups, and banditry present persistent risks. Even in less restricted areas, avoid large gatherings or demonstrations as they can quickly become violent.
What documents do I need to show proof of insurance or vaccination in Bangladesh?
Travelers should carry their travel insurance certificate and any official vaccination records, especially for yellow fever if arriving from a risk country. Documents may be checked on arrival or during your stay, particularly proof of insurance when seeking medical treatment or when passing through border controls. Make digital copies as a precaution.
Do I need a visa to travel to Bangladesh?
Yes, all US citizens need a visa to travel to Bangladesh. You can apply for a visa before your trip at the Embassy of Bangladesh or request a visa on arrival at certain entry points. However, advance application is strongly recommended. Your passport must be valid for at least six months with at least one blank page. Also, an onward or return ticket is required for entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Bangladesh?
- Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool.
- Carefully check cover and exclusions, paying attention to health risks in Bangladesh such as required vaccinations, risk of dengue, and possible civil unrest.
- Purchase your selected plan online.
- Once payment is confirmed, you will receive your insurance certificate, typically by email.
What medical risks should travelers to Bangladesh be aware of?
Travelers should be prepared for diseases such as dengue, hepatitis A, and typhoid, which require vaccination. Medical facilities can be basic outside major cities and access may be limited, so it is important to have coverage for medical evacuation. Urban air quality, especially in Dhaka, is often poor and can worsen respiratory conditions.
Are there regions in Bangladesh that travelers should avoid?
Yes, the Chittagong Hill Tracts, including Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban districts, are classified as Level 4 "Do Not Travel" zones. Political violence, armed groups, and banditry present persistent risks. Even in less restricted areas, avoid large gatherings or demonstrations as they can quickly become violent.
What documents do I need to show proof of insurance or vaccination in Bangladesh?
Travelers should carry their travel insurance certificate and any official vaccination records, especially for yellow fever if arriving from a risk country. Documents may be checked on arrival or during your stay, particularly proof of insurance when seeking medical treatment or when passing through border controls. Make digital copies as a precaution.
On the same topic
