Indian Visa Application Centres (IVAC) across major cities in Bangladesh have recently introduced limited appointment slots for urgent medical and student visas. This new measure is aimed at assisting those who need to travel urgently to third countries and require visa appointments with foreign embassies in India.

The services are available in key cities, including Dhaka, Chattogram, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna. This initiative is particularly important for individuals who need to address urgent medical needs or academic requirements abroad. The centres are prioritizing these urgent cases to help ease the travel and visa process for those affected.

The Indian Visa Application Centre in Bangladesh has issued a statement highlighting that these appointments are limited and will be available until the centres can resume their regular operations. The move comes as part of an effort to manage the increased demand and provide timely assistance to those facing pressing circumstances.

The announcement of these limited slots comes amid significant turmoil in Bangladesh. In mid-July, the country experienced widespread student protests against a controversial quota system for government jobs. The protests led to significant unrest and resulted in the removal of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government on August 5. The unrest has had a severe impact, with over 600 reported deaths since the beginning of the protests.

For Bangladeshi nationals in need of urgent medical or academic travel, these limited appointment slots provide a crucial opportunity to secure necessary visas. The IVAC centres are working to accommodate these needs as efficiently as possible under the current constraints.

 Major Fee Hike for H-1B Visas: Costs Surge by Over 2000%

In related news, meanwhile, it is to say that the H-1B visa, a crucial tool for companies hiring foreign workers in specialized fields, has seen a dramatic increase in application costs. The registration fee, which was once a modest $10, has soared to $215 per applicant, marking an astonishing 2150% increase. Additionally, the application fee for paper submissions has jumped significantly from $460 to $780, reflecting a 70% rise.

These fees are just part of the total cost. Applicants may also encounter additional charges, such as the Asylum Program Fee, Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee, and other expenses mandated by Public Law 114-113 and the American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA).

This surge in fees represents a substantial financial burden for both employers and potential employees, potentially impacting the accessibility of the H-1B visa program for many seeking opportunities in the U.S.

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