Expatriate Card will replace BMET Card: Minister

Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury has said that the proposed Expatriate Card will replace the existing card issued by the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET).

Speaking at a press briefing, the minister said there was no need for multiple cards when a single card could provide access to all relevant services on Tuesday (June 2).

"Once the Expatriate Card is introduced, there will be no separate BMET card. We are working to ensure that all facilities can be accessed through one card," he said.

According to ministry officials, the card will not be limited to remittance earners. Bangladeshis living abroad, including those residing in Europe and Latin America, will be eligible to apply for the Expatriate Card.

The minister said the card would function similarly to a credit card. Applicants would submit their requests through a dedicated cell, where eligibility would be verified before the card is issued.

"We have not yet finalized all the benefits that will be provided. However, we are considering how cardholders can receive currency-related services, gain advantages in sending remittances more easily, and access banking payment gateways. The card will also be linked to a digital identification and tracking system," he said.

Ariful Haque Choudhury added that the government is working to incorporate land-related services into the card's benefits package. Discussions are underway with the Ministry of Land to ensure that expatriates receive priority services upon presenting the card.

"We also want expatriates to receive priority treatment in hospitals and other public service sectors. We are seeking to bring meaningful improvements in these areas," he said.

State Minister Md. Nurul Haque and Ministry Secretary Mokhtar Hossain were also present at the press briefing.