How to Apply for a Medical Visa to India – A Step-by-Step Guide for International Patients

Introduction: Why You Need This Guide

If you're planning to come to India for surgery, cancer treatment, organ transplant, or even Ayurvedic healing, you’ll need a Medical Visa. India has made it quite simple—but you need the right documents, steps, and awareness.

This post will guide you through the process clearly. Whether you're from Nigeria, Kenya, UAE, UK, or Bangladesh, this guide is written for you—with zero confusion.

how to apply for a medical visa to India

What is a Medical Visa to India?

A Medical Visa (MED Visa) is a specialized visa that allows international patients to come to India for medical treatment in a recognized hospital. If someone from your family or a caretaker wants to accompany you, they will need a separate Medical Attendant Visa (MEDX Visa).

India also offers a separate Ayush Visa if you're visiting for traditional therapies like Ayurveda, Yoga, Siddha, or Naturopathy.

Who Should Apply for It?

You should apply for a Medical Visa if:

• You are planning treatment for serious conditions (e.g., heart surgery, cancer care, organ transplant, IVF, etc.)

• You’re seeking Ayurvedic or wellness therapies from certified centers (via the Ayush visa)

• You have a hospital recommendation letter

• You’re from a country eligible for India’s e-Visa facility (check at indianvisaonline.gov.in)

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Get a Hospital Letter

• The Indian hospital should issue a letter stating your diagnosis, treatment plan, cost, and duration

• For wellness treatments: Get a certificate from an AYUSH-accredited center

Step 2: Visit the Official e-Visa Portal

• Go to https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa

• Choose “e-Medical Visa” or “Ayush Visa”

• Start a new application

Step 3: Fill in the Application Form

• Complete personal details

• Select hospital or healing center info

• Upload:

• Recent passport-size photo

• Passport bio page (PDF/JPEG, under 1 MB)

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

• Fee depends on nationality ($10 to $100 USD, approx. ₹830 to ₹8,300)

• Pay securely online via international card

Step 5: Apply for the Medical Attendant Visa (if needed)

• A patient can bring up to two attendants

• Each attendant must fill out a separate form

• Upload:

• Passport bio page

• Passport-size photo

• Proof of relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, or affidavit)

• Copy of the patient’s hospital letter and visa application number

• Make sure attendant’s travel matches the patient’s schedule

Step 6: Wait for Processing (2–5 working days)

• Track your application status using the Reference Number

• If approved, your e-Visa will be sent via email

• Print and carry it with your passport during travel

Indian medical e-visa application form example for foreign patients

Required Documents Checklist

For the Patient (Medical Visa):

• Valid passport (6 months minimum)

• Passport-sized photo (white background)

• Hospital letter

• Proof of residence

• Travel details (return ticket recommended)

For the Attendant (Medical Attendant Visa):

• Valid passport

• Passport photo

• Proof of relationship with the patient

• Patient’s hospital letter and visa copy

Visa Validity and Extension Info

• e-Medical Visa: Valid for 60 days, with triple entry

• e-Medical Attendant Visa: Same duration, same entry limits

• If treatment extends beyond 60 days, you can apply for a visa extension through FRRO in India

AYUSH Visa (For Wellness Travelers)

Coming for detox, yoga therapy, Panchakarma, or naturopathy?

• Select “AYUSH Visa” on the same application portal

• Upload a certificate from a registered AYUSH center

• Same process and fees apply

[Future Post Placeholder: Top Ayurvedic Retreats in India for Post-Surgery Recovery]

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t apply with a Tourist Visa if coming for treatment—it may lead to rejection

• Always have a proper hospital letter, not a casual email

• Make sure your passport scan is clear and readable

• Don’t ignore follow-up queries from the visa portal (check your inbox/spam)

After Visa Approval – What to Expect

Once your e-Visa is approved:

1. Print a copy of the visa

2. Carry your medical file, hospital documents, and visa printout

3. Inform your hospital of arrival date

4. If your stay exceeds 60 days, visit the nearest FRRO in India to request an extension

Conclusion: Take the First Step with Confidence

India offers not just treatment, but care—with heart, soul, and world-class expertise. The Medical Visa and Attendant Visa process is simple when you follow it step by step.

Need help choosing a hospital?
[Placeholder: Best Hospitals in India by Treatment Type – Coming Soon]

Verified Source Disclaimer (Footer):

This post is based on verified information from the Government of India’s official e-Visa portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in) and Ministry of External Affairs guidelines. Please recheck with your local Indian embassy or the official portal before applying, as procedures may change over time.