Embassy Of France, Dhaka

Embassy of France in Dhaka: Visiting Hours, Services, and Visitor Information

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Embassy of France in Dhaka is a central institution in Bangladesh’s diplomatic landscape, symbolizing the enduring partnership between France and Bangladesh. Established soon after Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, the embassy has evolved into a hub for diplomacy, cultural exchange, education, economic collaboration, and consular assistance. Located in the secure Baridhara Diplomatic Zone, the embassy serves French nationals, Bangladeshi citizens, and international visitors, offering a full suite of services from visa issuance to cultural programming. This guide compiles all essential information on visiting hours, appointments, location, cultural initiatives, and tips to ensure a smooth and enriching visit. For the latest updates, refer to the official French Embassy Dhaka website, VisaHQ, and Embassies.info.

Historical Background and Architectural Significance

France’s engagement with Bengal predates Bangladesh’s independence, with early links established by traders and missionaries. After 1971, France quickly recognized Bangladesh, setting up the embassy to mark a new era of bilateral relations. The embassy is housed in the innovative Franco-German joint building in Baridhara, a symbol of European partnership and a pioneer in collaborative embassy architecture (bdnews24.com). The building features sustainable design, multilingual signage, and modern facilities to support its multifaceted mission.

Essential Visitor Information

Location & Directions

Address: Madani Avenue, Baridhara Diplomatic Enclave, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh (bd.ambafrance.org)
Coordinates: 23.790608°N, 90.418701°E (embassies.net)
Access: Best reached via taxi or ride-sharing services. Public buses do not enter the enclave due to security.
Nearby Landmarks: Gulshan-2, international schools, Hatirjheel Lake, and multiple embassies.

Visiting Hours

Embassy Office:
- Days: Sunday to Thursday
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed: Friday, Saturday, and on French/Bangladeshi public holidays (embassies.info)
Consular Services: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Alliance Française Dhaka (for cultural events): Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (afdhaka.org)

Entry Protocols

Appointments: Mandatory for all consular and visa services. Book online or by phone (bd.ambafrance.org).
Identification: Valid photo ID required for entry.
Security: All visitors undergo screening at enclave and embassy entrances.
Public Access: The embassy is not open for tours. Cultural events are held mainly at the Alliance Française.

Tickets and Fees

Embassy entry: Free for those with appointments.
Visa applications: Fees apply (e.g., approx. ৳11,500 for short-term, €99 for long-term visas).
Cultural events: Many are free or low-cost; some require registration or ticket purchase via the Alliance Française (afdhaka.org).
French language courses: Enrollment fees apply; discounts and scholarships are available.

Accessibility

The embassy and Alliance Française venues are wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Visitor parking is limited; taxis and ride-sharing are recommended.

Contact Information

Embassy Phone: +880 2 5566 8600
Alliance Française Dhaka: +880 2 985 6285
Emergency Consular Assistance: Use embassy contact details or online forms (bd.ambafrance.org)

Consular and Visa Services

For French Nationals: Passport issuance/renewal, notarial services, emergency support, civil status documentation.
For Bangladeshi Citizens: Visa processing for tourism, study, research, or business in France.
Visa Application Steps:
1. Create an account on the French visa portal.
2. Prepare required documents.
3. Book appointment and attend biometric collection.
4. Pay fees and submit documents.
5. Track processing (short-term: 15–20 days; long-term: 30–45 days).

More details are available on the official French Embassy Dhaka website and VisaHQ.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Cultural Initiatives

The Embassy, in partnership with the Alliance Française de Dhaka, organizes:

French Film and Francophonie Festivals
Art exhibitions and concerts
Literary events and artist workshops

These initiatives foster cross-cultural dialogue between France and Bangladesh.

French Language Promotion

The Alliance Française, accredited by the French Ministry of Culture, offers language courses at all proficiency levels, teacher training, and official certification. Scholarships and discounts are available for eligible students.

Higher Education and Campus France

The local Campus France Bangladesh office helps Bangladeshi students apply for French higher education, offering:

Application guidance for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs
Scholarship programs for tuition and living expenses
Pre-departure orientations and ongoing support

Collaborative Projects

The embassy collaborates with local universities, NGOs, and cultural organizations on translation workshops, scientific conferences, and heritage preservation. Initiatives address topics like climate change and gender equality, promoting shared solutions.

Security, Crisis Management, and Outreach

The embassy maintains crisis response protocols and encourages French citizens to register for timely alerts.
Honorary consulates in Chittagong and Sylhet extend consular support regionally (VisaHQ).
Community engagement includes partnerships with NGOs and support for local cultural and educational projects.

Visitor Tips

Arrive early for appointments, especially during busy periods.
Carry all required documents for consular or visa services.
Check embassy and Alliance Française event calendars for public programs.
Dress modestly and adhere to security protocols.
Explore nearby attractions: Hatirjheel Lake, Lalbagh Fort, and other Old Dhaka sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the embassy’s visiting hours?
A: Sunday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; consular services Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–12:30 PM and 2:00 PM–4:30 PM.

Q: Is an appointment required?
A: Yes, for all consular and visa services.

Q: Are cultural events open to the public?
A: Most Alliance Française events are public, with some requiring registration or tickets.

Q: Can I buy tickets online for events?
A: Yes, for major festivals via the Alliance Française Dhaka website.

Q: Is the embassy accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Q: How do I reach the embassy?
A: Use taxi or ride-sharing services; public transport does not enter the Baridhara enclave.

Explore More: Dhaka’s Historical and Cultural Landmarks

Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)

Ahsan Manzil, the “Pink Palace,” is a major historical attraction in Old Dhaka. Built in 1872 as the Nawab’s residence, it is now a museum showcasing Bengal’s aristocratic heritage.

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Tickets: BDT 30 (locals), BDT 200 (foreigners), children under 12 free
Nearby Attractions: Lalbagh Fort, Star Mosque, Armenian Church

Visit early to avoid crowds, and check Ahsan Manzil Official Facebook Page for updates.

Final Tips and Recommendations

Stay updated via the French Embassy Dhaka website and the Alliance Française de Dhaka.
Download the Quai d’Orsay travel advisory app for real-time safety updates.
For French language or cultural interests, enroll with the Alliance Française and follow their event calendar.
Explore Dhaka’s diplomatic and historic quarters for a complete cultural experience.

Official Sources and Further Information

The Embassy of France in Dhaka stands as a beacon of modern diplomacy and cultural exchange. Plan ahead, utilize official channels, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Franco-Bangladeshi relations during your visit.