Bangladesh Bank has imposed restrictions on foreign travel for officials and employees of all banks and financial institutions until the upcoming national election.

In a circular issued on Wednesday (26 November), the central bank instructed managing directors, chief executive officers, and all other staff to avoid overseas trips unless they are considered absolutely essential.

The directive, issued under the Bank Company Act, 1991, will remain effective until the national election concludes in February next year.

The notice, however, did not specify what qualifies as “essential” travel, leaving banks to interpret the guideline on a case-by-case basis.