Meghna Bank launches Visa Direct for Account, first in Bangladesh

Meghna Bank PLC has become the first bank in Bangladesh to launch Visa Direct for Account (VDA), enabling near real-time outward remittances through a fast, secure and cost-effective digital payment solution.

Launched in partnership with Visa, the service allows customers to send money abroad for all Bangladesh Bank–approved purposes, including person-to-person (P2P) and consumer-to-business (C2B) transactions. The platform was commercially launched in December 2025, and Meghna Bank is currently facilitating eligible outward remittances through the system.

To mark the milestone, a programme was held in Dhaka on 19 January 2026. Md Zakir Hossain Chowdhury, Deputy Governor of Bangladesh Bank, attended the event as the chief guest, while Sabbir Ahmed, Country Manager of Visa for Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan, was present as the special guest. The event was hosted by Syed Mizanur Rahman, Managing Director of Meghna Bank PLC, along with senior officials of the bank.

Speaking at the event, Md Zakir Hossain Chowdhury said the introduction of Visa Direct for Account aligns with Bangladesh Bank's vision of promoting secure, transparent and technology-driven cross-border payment solutions. He said such initiatives would improve efficiency, reduce transaction costs and support the growing demand for digital financial services.

Sabbir Ahmed said Visa is proud to partner with Meghna Bank to introduce the first Visa Direct for Account service in Bangladesh, adding that the solution enables customers to send money abroad quickly, securely and at lower cost.

Syed Mizanur Rahman said Meghna Bank's early adoption of Visa Direct for Account reflects the bank's commitment to innovation and customer-centric banking.