The Bangladesh government has decided to launch a pilot project for the “Probashi Card” aimed at citizens living abroad, according to reports.
Sources from the Prime Minister’s Office said that the decision was made at a meeting on the Probashi Card chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
During the meeting, it was discussed that the government would initially introduce a Probashi Debit Card for overseas citizens. The main objectives of the card are to enhance the social status of expatriates, provide economic incentives, and offer easier access to international payment systems and banking services through a dual-currency card facility.
As part of its election commitments, the government has already begun implementing programs such as the Family Card, Farmer Card, and Sports Card. The Probashi Card initiative is now being introduced as another major program targeting overseas citizens.
Under the government’s plan, Probashi Card holders will receive special services at domestic and international airports. These benefits will include access to complimentary airport lounges, faster services through special immigration booths, and complimentary meet-and-greet services at international airports.
In addition, card holders will receive discounts on air tickets and hotel bookings, affordable vehicle booking services at home and abroad, and airport pick-and-drop services through the Signature Card facility.
In the healthcare sector, dedicated service booths for expatriates will be established at government hospitals, while private hospitals will provide discount facilities for Probashi Card holders.
The government also plans to provide free transportation of the deceased bodies of card holders back to their home country, as well as rehabilitation opportunities and insurance benefits for expatriates returning from abroad.
The card will also provide priority services for administrative and economic matters, including land registration, name transfer procedures, utility services, licensing, and foreign investment-related activities.
The Bangladesh government aims to strengthen the social, economic, and national contributions of overseas citizens through the Probashi Card initiative.
Ref/Photo: Dhaka Tribune
