Bangladesh Bank relaxes forex rules for freelancers to boost digital services

Central bank allows up to $20,000 in inward remittances without formal declaration, aiming to streamline flows for the growing digital economy.

By Handelsavisen Newsroom · Automated 2026-07-22 10:47 UTC · 1 min read

Bangladesh Bank has introduced new guidelines easing foreign exchange transaction rules for freelancers and individual service exporters.

The central bank’s move is designed to support the country’s expanding digital services sector by reducing administrative friction for small-scale earners.

Under the updated framework, inward remittances of up to $20,000 can now be credited to accounts without the need for formal declaration requirements.

Under the updated framework, inward remittances of up to $20,000 can now be credited to accounts without the need for formal declaration requirements.

This simplification targets the informal and semi-formal digital workforce, which has become a significant source of foreign currency inflows for the economy.

The policy shift aligns with broader regulatory efforts to modernize financial infrastructure.

Previously, the central bank authorized financially sound non-bank financial institutions to accept individual deposits exceeding the statutory limit of Tk 50 lakh ($4,500), signaling a gradual loosening of capital controls.