Pakistani Passport vs Bangladeshi Passport: Full 2026 Comparison
Pakistan and Bangladesh share a complex history and many demographic similarities. Both are South Asian Muslim-majority nations with large diaspora populations in the Gulf. Their passports are often compared by families with roots in both countries, and by Gulf workers from both nationalities.
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Quick Answers
Which is stronger -- Pakistani or Bangladeshi passport?
The Bangladeshi passport is slightly stronger in 2026: approximately 42 countries visa-free/VOA (Henley rank ~99) vs Pakistan''s ~34 (rank ~104). Bangladesh has better access to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, where Bangladeshis have historically had a labor migration pathway that created favorable arrangements.
Do Pakistanis and Bangladeshis need the same visa for the UAE?
Yes. Both nationalities require a prior UAE tourist visa (approximately AED 350-500 for 30 days). The application process through airlines, VFS, or the UAE immigration portal is the same for both.
Where does the Pakistani passport have an advantage over Bangladeshi?
Pakistan''s main advantage is China: Pakistani nationals can visit China visa-free for up to 90 days due to the strong Pakistan-China bilateral relationship. Bangladeshi nationals require a Chinese visa. Pakistan also has better access to some Central Asian nations.
Can Pakistanis and Bangladeshis visit each other freely?
No. Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals require prior visas to visit each other''s countries. There is no bilateral visa-free arrangement between Pakistan and Bangladesh, reflecting the historically complex relationship since the 1971 separation.
Key Destinations: Pakistan vs Bangladesh Passport
| Destination | Pakistan | Bangladesh |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| Saudi Arabia | Tourist eVisa (SAR 535) | Tourist eVisa (SAR 535) |
| Schengen | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| UK | Visa Required (GBP 115) | Visa Required (GBP 115) |
| USA | B1/B2 Visa Required | B1/B2 Visa Required |
| Malaysia | eVisa (MYR 100) | Visa Required / Check current policy |
| China | Visa-Free (90 days) | Visa Required |
| Iran | Visa-Free (3 months) | Visa on Arrival |
| Maldives | Visa-Free (30 days) | Visa-Free (30 days) |
| Indonesia (Bali) | Check eVOA eligibility | eVOA (IDR 500,000) |
| Nepal | Visa Required | Visa Required |
| Thailand | Visa Required | Visa Required |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pakistani nationals work in Bangladesh?
Pakistani nationals require a valid Bangladesh visa and a work permit issued by a Bangladeshi employer. There is no special work rights arrangement between the two countries despite their historical ties.
Is the Bangladeshi passport improving faster than Pakistani?
Both passports have seen incremental improvements in recent years through new bilateral agreements. Bangladesh has benefited from its growing garment export economy and active bilateral diplomacy with Southeast Asian nations. Pakistan has benefited from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) relationship with China.
⚠ Data note. Passport access figures are approximate per early 2026 Henley Passport Index. They include visa-free and visa-on-arrival access. Always verify current requirements for specific destinations before booking.
Last reviewed: February 2026 · About · Report inaccuracy