Md.Mamun Mia.Special Correspondent |Riyadh,Saudi Arabia

Bangladeshi expatriates living in Saudi Arabia are expressing growing frustration and concern over complications related to the E-Passport system. Many expatriates are facing serious difficulties in their professional lives, travel plans, and administrative activities due to delays in receiving their passports within the scheduled timeframe.

According to expatriates, although the E-Passport system has been made mandatory, the authorities have failed to ensure timely passport delivery. As a result, many are experiencing difficulties renewing their Iqama (residency permits), changing jobs, obtaining Exit-Re-Entry visas, and even travelling to Bangladesh for urgent family matters.

Affected expatriates said that even after the scheduled delivery period has passed, they are still unable to obtain any clear information about the status of their passports. In many cases, repeated attempts to contact the relevant authorities have failed to produce satisfactory responses. This uncertainty is increasing workplace difficulties and causing significant mental stress among expatriates.

Expatriates are raising an important question: “If the authorities cannot ensure timely delivery of E-Passports, why was the system made mandatory in the first place?”

They are demanding improvements in the passport delivery system, greater transparency in the application process, and effective measures to reduce the suffering of Bangladeshi expatriates.

According to analysts, considering the significant contribution of expatriates to the national economy, it is essential to ensure that their basic services are delivered efficiently and without unnecessary delays. Otherwise, frustration and dissatisfaction among expatriates may continue to grow.

Expatriates hope that the concerned authorities will recognise the seriousness of the situation, take immediate and effective action, and bring an end to their prolonged suffering.