BigstockThe suspension will continue for as long as situation demandsThe Department of Immigration & Passports (DIP) has suspended issuance of new passports for all amidst the coronavirus crisis in Bangladesh. The department suspended the processing as both e-passport and machine-readable passports require fingerprints from applicants which raises the risks of the spreading of the coronavirus. However, it will operate in a limited manner for hajj pilgrims and for people who have emergencies, said Major General Shakil Ahmed, director general (DG) of DIP. Applicants who have already submitted the necessary papers for issuance of passports will receive their passports once they are processed, he added. The suspension will continue for as long as situation demands.

Source: Dhaka Tribune March 23, 2020 07:18 UTC