Living in Khulna as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Visitors from most Asian and African countries can enter and stay in Bangladesh for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of other countries must apply for a visa from their respective Bangladeshi embassy or consulate. The visa application process takes approximately one week.

Language resources

English is widely spoken in urban settings, especially in Khulna's business, medical, and academic sectors. The primary local language is Bengali. Expat families can avail language learning programs at international schools, cultural centers, and with private tutors.

Housing

Accommodation in Khulna is reasonably priced, and expats can choose from a variety of housing options ranging from shared houses to apartments and villas. Shared houses are the most affordable, with rooms costing between $50 and $120 USD per month. It's possible to find a one-bedroom apartment in a central location for $100-200 USD per month, while a two or three-bedroom house costs between $300 and $600 USD.

Groceries

The prices of groceries in Khulna are generally lower than in Dhaka, making for more affordable living overall. Fresh produce, such as fruits, vegetables, and fish, can be found at local markets like the bustling Bus Stand Market or the New Market for around $1-$3 USD per kg. Meat, dairy, and grains are also available at lower prices than in Dhaka.

Transportation

Khulna's transportation system is manageable, and getting around the city is affordable. Rickshaws (battery or CNG) are the most popular mode of transportation, costing approximately $0.10-$0.25 USD per 1km. Auto-rickshaws are more expensive, costing around $0.30-$0.60 USD per km. Local taxis are also readily available and can be hailed or booked via ride-hailing apps like Uber or Pathao.

Khulna has a tropical wet and dry climate with hot and humid weather year-round. The summer (March to May) is scorching, and temperatures can exceed 40°C. The monsoon season (June to October) brings heavy rainfall that causes flooding in some areas. Winter (November to February) is relatively cool and dry with moderate temperatures averaging 22°C.

Khulna houses a growing economy built around agriculture, fisheries, and textile industries. The city's top industries include jute processing, shipbuilding, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. Companies such as Square Pharmaceuticals, Far East Textile Mill, and Intex Karkyet, amongst others, provide job opportunities to expats. Job seekers should possess a bachelor's degree in relevant fields and have at least four years of work experience.

Khulna offers several healthcare facilities, including specialized hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries. Khulna Medical College and Hospital was established in 1976 and is the primary healthcare facility in the city. Additionally, Apollo Hospitals, Dhaka Community Hospital, and Medi revealed are among the reputed healthcare establishments present in Khulna.

Khulna's transportation infrastructure is continuously being improved, with regular buses, auto-rickshaws, local taxis, and cycle-rickshaws ensuring that commuting around the city is manageable. The most popular bus routes include Khulna-Chittagong, Khulna-Dhaka, Khulna-Barisal, Khulna-Satkhira, and Khulna-Magura.

Khulna is a relatively safe city for expats, but it's essential to take common-sense precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in crowded areas and public transportation. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and avoid displaying flashy jewellery or cash.