Banks can now send up to $15,000 for treatment abroad

Banks in Bangladesh can now send up to $15,000 abroad for the treatment of patients, as Bangladesh Bank has raised the permissible limit with effect from today.

The funds can be sent in foreign currencies directly to the hospital abroad or through an international card, the central bank said in a notice today.

The highest cash release limit in this case is set at $5,000, according to the notice.

Prior regulatory approval will be required for any amount exceeding these limits.

Due to visa complications in neighbouring countries, patients are planning to seek medical treatment in other nations, Bangladesh Bank officials said.

As treatment costs in these countries are relatively higher, banks can send funds for such purpose without prior approval from the banking watchdog, they added.