Bangladesh Bank has directed all banks to ensure that inward remittances are credited to customers’ accounts on the same day they are received, in a major move to improve service for expatriates and their families.
The central bank issued a circular on Thursday (January 08, 2026), saying the directive aims to reduce delays, enhance efficiency in the payment process and improve the overall quality of customer service.
According to the circular, the new instructions will take effect immediately.
However, banks have been given time until March, 2026 to fully put in place the required technical infrastructure.
Read more: Forex reserves hit 3-year high as December remittances cross $3bn
Under the new guidelines, remittances received during banking hours must be credited on the same working day, while those received after banking hours must be credited no later than the next working day.
To speed up processing, Bangladesh Bank advised banks to adopt Straight-Through Processing (STP) or other risk-based expedited methods.
If essential information is available, banks are encouraged to credit the funds first and complete the remaining documentation or verification formalities later.
In cases where post-credit review is not possible, banks must complete verification and settle the transaction within a maximum of three working days.
To improve transparency, the central bank has also made it mandatory to use a Unique End-to-End Transaction Reference (UETR), which will allow digital tracking of remittances from receipt to final credit.
In addition, Bangladesh Bank plans to strengthen digital foreign currency platforms to gradually eliminate manual paperwork, including Form C and Form C (ICT).
The business community has welcomed the initiative, saying it will boost customer confidence and align Bangladesh’s remittance system with global best practices.
Read more: Remittances hit $2.93 billion in 28 days of December
Arif Hossain Kahan, Executive Director and spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank, said the move is a positive step towards modernisation.
“There are many operational challenges during the transition but the focus on digital tracking and faster settlement is essential for the future of our economy,” he said.