Dhaka: Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday announced that the freedom fighters will henceforth be eligible for five-year multiple entry tourist visas.

The decision was taken during the visit of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India on April 7-10.

At present, Bangladesh nationals, above the age of 65 years, are eligible for multiple entry tourist visas of five years.

In recognition of the special connection between Bangladeshi freedom fighters and India, this provision has been extended to freedom fighters as a special gesture, said the High Commission.

Freedom fighters willing to avail of the five-year tourist visa can walk-in without prior appointment and submit their tourist visa applications at visa centre in Gulshan and all of the eight IVACs outside Dhaka - Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, Barisal, Khulna, Jessore, Mymensingh and Rangpur.

They need to apply for a tourist visa along with the following additional documents -- proof of being a freedom fighter, original freedom fighter's certificate issued by the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs or Muktijodha Sansad (to be shown at IVAC at the time of submission) and photocopy to be attached with the application.

A copy of photo ID/NID card is mandatory along with the application.

All other conditions for Tourist visa shall remain unchanged.