Moving to Bangladesh

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Bangladesh for its low cost of living, diverse culture, and friendly people. People can find a place to live in Bangladesh by searching online for rental properties, or by asking around in the local community. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Bangladesh are Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet.

What do I need to know before moving to Bangladesh?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bangladesh, they said:

"Bangladesh is a culturally rich and diverse country, so it is important for expats to familiarize themselves with the local customs and etiquette before moving. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Bangladesh. It is also important to research the cost of living in Bangladesh, as it can be significantly lower than in other countries. Additionally, expats should be aware of the political situation in Bangladesh, as it can be volatile at times. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before moving to Bangladesh," replied a member in Bangladesh.

"Set right expectations. Visit Dhaka first before you decide. Try in May to July when families are ending contracts. Check for mold. Check the water supply. Check any possibility that a construction project may start nearby. If there are one floor houses around, the risk is high that a 6 to 10 floor building will start below your window. By the time it reaches your windows you can touch it by hand. This is close together they build their buildings. Check in clubs. There are lots of info posted there. Check Deshperate in Dhaka on Facebook too," commented one expat who made the move to Dhaka.

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How do I find a place to live in Bangladesh?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Bangladesh is to use online resources such as rental websites, classifieds, and real estate agents. You can also ask friends and family for recommendations. Additionally, you can look for rental postings in local newspapers and magazines. Once you have identified a few potential places to live, it is important to visit the area in person to get a better sense of the neighborhood and to ensure that the property is suitable for your needs," said one expat who made the move to Bangladesh.

"Basically my company decided. All expats lived in Gulshan area so we went for same. Baridhara seemed nicer but it was more expensive too. Now they have started construction on high buildings everywhere in both Gulshan and Baridhara and it is quite tough to live in these areas. In a few years these areas will not be so called residential anymore. My company used an agent to see apartments," explained one expat living in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Bangladesh?

"Expat homes and apartments in Bangladesh tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, internet access, and other amenities. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expats also have access to a wide range of international restaurants, shopping malls, and other entertainment options," commented one expat who made the move to Bangladesh.

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What is the average cost of housing in Bangladesh?

If you are thinking about moving to Bangladesh, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Bangladesh varies depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in Bangladesh is relatively affordable compared to other countries, with the average cost of a basic apartment ranging from around $50 to $200 per month. Additionally, there are many options for low-cost housing, such as shared housing and dormitories, which can be found for as little as $10 to $20 per month," remarked one expat in Bangladesh.

"Higher. It is difficult to compare, but for a decent apt in Bucharest it will be a few hundreds euro. In Dhaka, it is thousands," said one expat in Dhaka.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Bangladesh?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Bangladesh, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Bangladesh can be a great investment, as the country is experiencing rapid economic growth. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of housing. Renting a home in Bangladesh can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility if you are unsure of how long you will be living in the area. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Bangladesh should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," replied a member in Bangladesh.

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What should I pack when moving to Bangladesh?

We asked people living in Bangladesh to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Bangladesh, it is important to pack clothing that is appropriate for the climate. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen are ideal for the hot and humid weather. It is also important to bring a good supply of sunscreen and insect repellent. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items of western-style clothing for special occasions. It is also important to bring any necessary medications, as well as a first aid kit. Finally, it is a good idea to bring a few items that will help you feel at home, such as photos, books, and music," remarked one expat who made the move to Bangladesh.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Bangladesh?

We asked people in Bangladesh if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"Yes, I had an almighty road rage incident, which the locals at whom my rage was targeted could not fathom what it was that I was so worked up about, and probably couldn't understand a word that I was saying (which is probably just as well)," remarked one expat who made the move to Dhaka.

"No, I did not. However, it is important to note that I come from a multi religious , multi-racial environment (country of Singapore), and have been exposed to Islamic practices and culture, hence it may have been easier for me," explained one expat living in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

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Why do people move to Bangladesh?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Bangladesh, they responded:

"Bangladesh is an increasingly attractive destination for expats due to its fascinating culture, delicious food, stunning natural beauty, and friendly people. The country has a booming economy, with impressive economic growth and a relatively low cost of living. Bangladesh also offers exciting career opportunities, especially in the areas of technology, education, healthcare, and finance. Furthermore, the quality of life in Bangladesh remains generally quite high with access to excellent healthcare and education, plentiful leisure activities, and strong infrastructure. All these aspects make Bangladesh a compelling place to live and work for expats," said one expat living in Bangladesh.

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How are healthcare services Bangladesh?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Bangladesh, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Bangladesh are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and is available to all citizens of Bangladesh. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Bangladesh generally use the private healthcare system, as it is more reliable and of a higher quality than the public system. However, some expats may use the public healthcare system if they are unable to access private healthcare or if they are on a tight budget," wrote one expat living in Bangladesh.

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What are medical services in Bangladesh like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Bangladesh, they replied:

"Medical services in Bangladesh are generally of a good standard, with a range of both public and private hospitals and clinics available. The country has a number of well-trained doctors and nurses, and a variety of medical treatments and procedures are available. The government has also invested in improving the quality of healthcare in the country, with initiatives such as the introduction of free healthcare for the poor and the expansion of rural health services. In addition, Bangladesh has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Bangladesh Institute of Child Health, which provide specialized care for children," said one expat.

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Moving to Bangladesh

What do I need to know before moving to Bangladesh?

How do I find a place to live in Bangladesh?

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Bangladesh?

What is the average cost of housing in Bangladesh?

Should I buy or rent a home in Bangladesh?

What should I pack when moving to Bangladesh?

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Bangladesh?

Why do people move to Bangladesh?

How are healthcare services Bangladesh?

What are medical services in Bangladesh like?

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