India has emerged as one of the world’s leading destinations for affordable, high-quality medical treatment. From advanced cardiac surgeries and orthopedic procedures to cutting-edge cancer care and fertility treatments, India attracts thousands of international patients every year. To facilitate their journey, the Indian government offers a dedicated Medical Visa, designed specifically for those seeking treatment at recognized hospitals and wellness centers across the country.

If you or a loved one are considering traveling to India for medical care, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Medical Visa for India in 2025—including eligibility, application process, required documents, visa validity, and much more.

What is an Indian Medical Visa?

The Indian Medical Visa (M Visa) is a type of visa issued to foreign nationals who wish to travel to India for specialized medical treatment. This visa is exclusively meant for patients undergoing therapy at recognized hospitals, treatment centers, or medical institutions in India.

The visa is not intended for general wellness tourism, such as spa treatments or cosmetic procedures. It is meant for genuine medical concerns requiring professional treatment such as:

• Cardiac issues

• Neurological disorders

• Organ transplants

• Joint replacements

• Cancer treatment

• Fertility treatments (e.g., IVF)

• Complex surgeries

Who is Eligible for an Indian Medical Visa?

Foreign nationals from over 160 countries are eligible to apply for a Medical Visa to India. You must meet the following basic criteria:

• A confirmed appointment or treatment plan with a recognized Indian hospital

• Medical documents or diagnosis from your home country

• Proof of financial ability to pay for treatment and stay

• A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity

• No criminal record or security concerns

Additionally, up to two family members or companions may accompany the patient by applying for a Medical Attendant Visa, which is issued only alongside a Medical Visa.

Validity and Duration of Stay

The Indian Medical Visa is typically issued for:

• 60 days per visit

• Triple entry allowed within the validity period

• Can be extended in certain medical emergency cases through FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) in India

Patients from select countries may also be granted longer-duration Medical Visas (up to 6 months or 1 year), depending on the treatment required and recommendations from the Indian medical institution.

Benefits of an Indian Medical Visa

• Fast processing compared to regular visas

• Multiple entries allowed, enabling follow-up visits if necessary

• Permission to stay in India for up to 60 days per visit

• Option to extend the visa for severe or ongoing medical cases

• Access to world-class treatment at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries

Medical Visa vs. e-Medical Visa

India offers two formats of Medical Visas:

1. e-Medical Visa (Online)

• Apply online via https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa

• Available to citizens of eligible countries

• Suitable for short-term medical visits (60 days)

• Faster processing and paperless application

2. Regular Medical Visa (Sticker Visa)

• Apply through the Indian Embassy/Consulate

• Suitable for complex, long-term treatments

• May allow longer stays and multiple entries over a year

If your treatment is expected to last more than 60 days or if you're from a country not covered under the e-Medical Visa scheme, you should apply for the regular Medical Visa.

How to Apply for an Indian e-Medical Visa

The application process is simple and can be completed in a few steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official e-Visa Portal

Go to Indian Visa from Australia

Step 2: Fill Out the Online Application

• Choose “Medical Visa” as the purpose of travel

• Provide your personal and passport information

• Mention the name of the hospital and type of treatment

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

• Recent passport-size photo (white background)

• Scanned bio page of your passport

• Medical letter from your local doctor and Indian hospital

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

The fee depends on your nationality and visa type. Payment is made online.

Step 5: Receive Your e-Medical Visa via Email

If approved, the visa will be emailed to you within 3–5 business days. Print a copy and carry it during your travel.

Required Documents for Indian Medical Visa

To ensure smooth processing, you will need the following:

• Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months’ validity

• Recent color photograph as per visa guidelines

• Letter from a recognized Indian hospital outlining your treatment plan

• Medical records or diagnosis from your home country

• Proof of financial means to cover expenses

• Confirmed return flight ticket (optional but recommended)

For a Medical Attendant Visa, companions must provide proof of relationship with the patient (e.g., marriage or birth certificates) and a copy of the patient's visa.

Visa Fees for Medical Visa to India

The visa fee varies based on the applicant’s nationality and visa duration. As a general reference:

Additional charges may include bank transaction or convenience fees.

Can the Indian Medical Visa be Extended?

Yes, under certain circumstances, your Medical Visa can be extended by the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) in India. You must provide:

• A medical certificate from the treating hospital

• Proof that continued treatment is essential

• Updated passport and visa details

Extensions are usually granted only in genuine medical emergencies or in case of ongoing treatment that cannot be completed within the original visa period.

Important Guidelines for Patients

• Do not overstay your visa. Penalties can be severe.

• Travel with medical documents, including prescriptions, test reports, and referral letters.

• Get medical insurance that covers emergencies and evacuation.

• Book accommodation near the hospital or treatment center.

• Learn about Indian culture and hospital etiquette beforehand for a more comfortable stay.

• Stay connected with your embassy, especially during long treatments.

Why Choose India for Medical Treatment?

India is a preferred destination for international patients due to:

• Highly qualified doctors and surgeons

• World-class hospitals with modern technology

• Affordable treatment costs (up to 70–80% cheaper than the U.S./UK)

• Minimal waiting periods for surgeries

• English-speaking staff in major cities

• Holistic healing options like Ayurveda and yoga

Popular treatment cities include Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kochi.

Final Thoughts

A Medical Visa for India opens the door to advanced healthcare services at an affordable cost. Whether you're seeking life-saving surgery, long-term treatment, or specialized procedures, India's healthcare system offers a world-class experience for international patients.

Make sure you apply for the correct visa, keep your documents in order, and plan your travel with support from a recognized hospital or medical tourism facilitator. With the right preparation, your healing journey in India can be smooth, successful, and transformational.