Passport

How to Check Your E-Passport Application Status Online in Bangladesh

So, you've successfully submitted your e-passport application in Bangladesh. Congratulations! That's a significant step done. But now comes the waiting game, and let's be honest, wondering about the progress can be a bit nerve-wracking. Where is it? Is it approved? When can I collect it?

Thankfully, the days of solely relying on uncertain timelines or multiple visits to the passport office are largely behind us. The Department of Immigration & Passports (DIP) in Bangladesh offers a convenient online system to check your e-passport application status right from the comfort of your home.

Why Bother Checking Your E-Passport Status Online?

Checking your status online offers several advantages:

  • Convenience: No need to travel to the passport office or spend time waiting on phone lines. Check anytime, anywhere with an internet connection.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing where your application stands in the process can significantly reduce anxiety.
  • Timely Updates: You'll know relatively quickly when your application moves to the next stage, including when it's ready for police verification (if applicable) or collection.
  • Planning: It helps you plan, especially if you need the passport for upcoming travel or other official purposes.

What You'll Need to Check Your Status

Before you dive in, make sure you have the following information handy:

  • Application ID OR Online Registration ID (OID): This is the unique identifier you received when you submitted your application online or at the passport office. It's crucial – double-check you have the correct one. It's usually found on your application summary or delivery slip.
  • Date of Birth: You'll need to enter your date of birth exactly as you provided it in the application form (DD/MM/YYYY format).

Step-by-Step Guide: Tracking Your E-Passport Application Online

Ready? Here’s how to check your status:

  1. Visit the Official E-Passport Portal: Open your web browser and go to the official Bangladesh E-Passport Online Portal: www.epassport.gov.bd
  2. Navigate to 'Check Status': Look for an option on the homepage menu usually labeled "Check Status" or similar wording. Click on it.
  3. Enter Your Details: You will now see a form asking for specific information:
    • Select either "Application ID" or "Online Registration ID (OID)" based on which one you have.
    • Enter the chosen ID carefully in the designated field.
    • Enter your Date of Birth using the calendar selector or by typing it in the correct DD/MM/YYYY format.
  4. Human Verification: You'll likely need to complete a CAPTCHA challenge (like typing distorted text or selecting specific images) to prove you're not a bot.
  5. Submit and View Status: Once all information is entered correctly and the CAPTCHA is solved, click the "Check" or "Submit" button. The portal will process your request and display the current status of your e-passport application.

Understanding the Different Status Messages

The status message you see will indicate where your application is in the process. Common statuses include (though exact wording might vary slightly):

  • Submitted: Your application has been successfully received by the system.
  • Enrolment in Process / Biometric Capture Completed: Your biometric data (fingerprints, photo) has been captured.
  • Pending SB/Police Verification: Your application is undergoing security clearance (Special Branch/Police).
  • Pending Final Approval: Security clearance is complete, and the application is awaiting final approval from the passport authorities.
  • Approved: Your application has been approved!
  • In Printery / Printing Succeeded: Your e-passport is being printed.
  • Shipped / Sent for Distribution: Your printed passport has been dispatched from the printing facility to the Regional Passport Office (RPO) or Embassy where you applied.
  • Ready for Issuance / Collection: Your e-passport is ready! You can now visit the designated office to collect it (you might receive an SMS notification as well).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • "No data found" or Error Message: Double-check that you've entered the correct Application ID/OID and Date of Birth. A simple typo is often the culprit. Ensure you're using the ID from the *e-passport* application, not an older MRP application.
  • Status Not Updating for a Long Time: Processing times can vary. Delays can occur during peak seasons or due to complexities in verification. If it seems unusually long, you might consider contacting the passport office helpline or visiting in person for clarification, but give the online system a reasonable amount of time first.
  • Website Issues: Occasionally, the official portal might be down for maintenance or experience high traffic. If you can't access it, try again later.

Stay Patient!

The online tracking system is a fantastic tool for staying informed about your Bangladesh e-passport application. Check it periodically, understand the status messages, and have your required IDs ready. While waiting can be tedious, this system makes the process much more transparent. Good luck, and hopefully, you'll have your new e-passport in hand soon!