How to Apply for a Medical Visa to India

Every year, approximately 2 million international patients travel to India for advanced care. If you are considering travelling to India for medical purposes, you will need a valid medical visa.

This article provides a clear, step-by-step guide on how to apply for a medical visa to India. Whether you are a patient or a caregiver supporting a loved one, this guide will help you understand the process, the requirements, and what to expect from application to arrival.

Understanding the Purpose of a Medical Visa

A medical visa is a type of visa granted to individuals who intend to travel to another country specifically to receive medical treatment. In India, this visa allows international patients to access treatment at recognised and reputable hospitals and healthcare facilities.

This visa is not intended for general tourism or casual visits. It is strictly issued when the purpose of the visit is genuine medical care that cannot easily be received in the patient’s home country.

How to Get a Medical Visa

If you are planning to travel to India for medical treatment, the visa application process is straightforward when you follow the correct steps.

Depending on your country of residence and how soon you intend to travel, you can apply either online through the Indian government’s e-Visa portal or through the nearest Indian embassy or high commission.

Applying Online: Medical e-Visa

Many but NOT ALL nationalities are eligible to apply for a Medical e-Visa through India’s official e-Visa portal.

Steps to Apply for an e-Medical Visa

1. Visit the Official Website
   Go to the Indian government’s e-Visa website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa
2. Select ‘Medical e-Visa’
   Choose the “Medical e-Visa” category from the visa type menu.
3. Fill in the Online Form
   Provide personal, passport, and travel details. Upload your passport photo and scanned passport copy.
4. Upload Supporting Medical Documents
   Include a copy of the invitation letter from the Indian hospital and your medical reports.
5. Submit the Application and Pay Online
   Once completed, pay the visa processing fee (rates are dependent on your country of origin) and submit your application.
6. Wait for Approval
   Visa decisions are typically made within 3 working days. The e-Visa is sent to your email as a PDF.
7. Print the e-Visa and Carry It When Travelling
   You will need to present this at immigration upon arrival in India.

Note: The e-Medical Visa is valid for up to 60 days from the date of entry and allows up to three entries during this period.

Applying Through the Embassy or High Commission

For countries NOT ELIGIBLE for the e-Visa or for treatments requiring longer stays, you can apply at your local Indian embassy or high commission.

Steps for Embassy Application

1. Obtain and Complete the Visa Application Form
   This form is usually available online through the website of the local Indian mission or embassy.
2. Gather Required Documents
   Include your passport, medical reports, hospital invitation letter, undertaking for seeking medical visa, passport photos, and proof of residence.
3. Book an Appointment or Walk-In (Depending on Country)
   Visit the Indian mission in person with all required documents.
4. Undergo an Interview (If requested)
   Some applicants may be asked additional questions about their treatment.
5. Wait for Visa Processing and Collection
   Approval time may vary from 3 to 10 working days.

Medical Visa for Minors

Patients under 18 years of age are also eligible for medical visas. Additional requirements apply:

• A notarised letter of consent from both parents or legal guardians.
• A copy of the birth certificate or legal document showing the parent–child relationship.
• Valid passport of the minor.
• One or both parents may be required to accompany the child and must apply for Medical Attendant Visas.

Medical Visa for Attendants

Each patient is allowed a maximum of two attendants to accompany them to India.

Who Can Apply as a Medical Attendant?

• Immediate family members (parent, spouse, child, sibling)
• Legal guardians
• Close relatives responsible for the patient’s care

Important Information

• Attendants must apply for Medical Attendant Visas separately.
• These visas are usually granted for the same duration as the patient’s medical visa.
• Attendants must arrive and depart with the patient or notify immigration if travel is separate.

Eligibility Criteria for an Indian Medical Visa

To be granted a medical visa to India, you must meet specific requirements set by the Indian government. These requirements are in place to ensure that applicants have genuine medical needs and will receive treatment from reputable institutions within India.

Who Is Eligible for a Medical Visa?

You are eligible to apply for a medical visa if:

• You are seeking medical treatment in a recognised or specialised hospital or treatment centre in India.
• You are travelling to India for a specific medical procedure, surgery, or specialised treatment.
• You can provide proof of medical need and confirmation from both your home country physician and the hospital in India.

Types of Medical Conditions Covered

Indian medical visas are generally approved for treatment in areas such as:

• Oncology (cancer treatment)
• Cardiac surgery and cardiology
• Organ transplants (liver, kidney)
• Bone marrow transplants
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopaedics and spinal surgery
• Fertility treatments
• Plastic and reconstructive surgery
• Genetic or congenital disorders
• Rehabilitation following major injury or illness

Note: Dental treatments, cosmetic enhancements not tied to trauma or deformity, and general wellness therapy may not qualify for a medical visa.

Hospital Eligibility

The hospital or treatment centre in India must:

• Be registered and accredited with Indian health authorities.
• Provide an official invitation letter outlining your diagnosis, proposed treatment, and expected duration of stay.
• Be prepared to submit updates or confirmation if requested by Indian immigration or consular officials.

Who Is Not Eligible?

• Individuals without formal referral documents or invitation letters.
• Those seeking treatment at unlicensed or unverified clinics.

Eligibility for Medical Attendant Visas

Each patient may be accompanied by a maximum of two family members or caregivers. To qualify:

• The attendant must be a blood relative or legal guardian.
• The relationship must be documented with appropriate identification.
• Their purpose must be solely to assist the patient during treatment and recovery.

Vaccination and Health Requirements

In addition to medical eligibility, some travellers may be required to show proof of vaccinations, particularly if they are coming from countries with specific health risks.

Common requirements include:

• Yellow Fever Vaccination: Mandatory for travellers from certain African and South American countries.
• Polio Vaccination (OPV/IPV): May be required based on age or country of residence.
• A negative COVID-19 test or vaccination certificate may still be requested at immigration depending on current public health guidance.

Medical Visa Assistance by My 1Health

Preparing to travel for treatment abroad is a significant step toward better health, and it deserves to be handled with clarity and care.

My 1Health provides professional support to make this process easier, safer, and more efficient for patients and their families. Our role is to guide you at every step, from preparing your documents to helping you settle in once you arrive in India.

Personalised Visa Guidance

We offer one-on-one support to help you:

• Gather and organise all necessary documents
• Complete your visa application accurately and on time
• Respond to embassy or consular queries, if any arise

Our team ensures your application meets all Indian immigration requirements, reducing the chances of delays or rejection.

Hospital Coordination and Invitation Letter Support

My 1Health works directly with leading hospitals across India. Once your diagnosis and medical reports are reviewed:

• We assist in identifying the right hospital and specialist for your condition
• We obtain the official hospital invitation letter required for your visa
• We communicate with the hospital to clarify treatment timelines and procedures

This step is critical for visa approval and also helps you plan your journey more confidently.

Read: Top 10 Hospitals in India 2025 for International Patients

Assistance for Attendants and Minors

If you are travelling with a caregiver or guardian:

• We help your attendant apply for the correct visa
• For minors, we ensure that parental consent forms and legal requirements are correctly submitted

Every case is handled with sensitivity, ensuring that patients of all ages and backgrounds feel supported and safe.

Document Preparation and Review

Our visa support team will:

• Review all your documents for accuracy and completeness
• Provide clear checklists so nothing is missed
• Help with translations of medical documents

This includes medical reports, referral letters, identification documents, and visa forms.

Travel Logistics Support

Beyond the visa, My 1Health helps you plan your arrival:

• Guidance on booking flights, especially for patients needing special care
• Advice on travel insurance and pre-travel medical preparation
• Hotel or apartment options near your hospital
• Airport pickup and transfer arrangements if needed

Post-Arrival and FRRO Support

Upon arrival in India, foreign nationals on a medical visa must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). My 1Health provides:

• Step-by-step instructions and reminders for timely FRRO registration
• Document preparation for the FRRO process
• Support with registration appointments or online filing
• Help with medical visa extension in case your treatment requires more time

Documents Required for Medical Visa Application

To apply for a medical visa to India, you must submit a complete and accurate set of documents. These documents help the Indian authorities assess the purpose of your visit, the seriousness of your medical condition, and your ability to undergo treatment in India. Preparing these in advance ensures a smoother application process and reduces the chances of delay.

Core Documents for the Patient

1. Valid Passport
   • Must be valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of travel.
   • Should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
2. Recent Passport-Sized Photographs
   • White background
   • As per Indian visa photo specifications
3. Completed Visa Application Form
   • Filled out online (for e-Visa) or by hand (for embassy submission)
   • Signed and dated appropriately
4. Letter from the Referring Doctor or Hospital (Home Country)
   • Should explain the patient’s condition
   • Must clearly state the recommendation for treatment abroad
5. Invitation Letter from the Indian Hospital
   • Must be on the hospital’s official letterhead
   • Should include the patient’s name, diagnosis, treatment plan, and expected duration of stay
   • Contact details of the treating physician or department
6. Medical Reports
   • Copies of diagnostic tests, scans, prescriptions, or clinical summaries
   • Should support the diagnosis and referral
7. Proof of Financial Means
   • Bank statement (last 3 to 6 months)
   • Letter of financial support (if sponsored by another individual or organisation)
   • Salary slips, if applicable
8. Proof of Residence
   • National ID, utility bill, or government-issued address confirmation
9. Return Air Ticket or Travel Itinerary
   • Shows intended date of arrival and return
   • Not mandatory for approval but often requested

Documents for Medical Attendants

Each patient may be accompanied by up to two attendants, usually close family members. They must submit:

• A separate visa application form
• Passport and passport-sized photo
• A copy of the patient’s passport and visa application
• Proof of relationship to the patient (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate, family ID card)
• Financial documents if applicable

Additional Documents for Minors

When the patient is under 18 years of age, the following are also required:

• Birth certificate or legal proof of guardianship
• Parental consent letter, signed and notarised
• Passports of both parents or guardians
• Details of who will accompany the child

It is important to organise all original documents along with clear photocopies before submitting your application or attending a visa interview, if one is required.

Time Duration for Medical Visa Approval

Knowing how long it takes to get a medical visa approved can help you plan your treatment and travel with more confidence. The duration depends on the type of visa you apply for, your country of residence, and how complete your application is at the time of submission.

Medical e-Visa Approval Timeline

If you apply online through the Indian e-Visa portal, you can typically expect:

• Approval within 3 to 5 working days from the date of application submission.
• Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or require further clarification.

Once approved, your e-Medical visa will be emailed to you as a downloadable PDF. You must carry a printed copy with you when travelling to India.

Tip: Always apply at least 7 days in advance of your intended travel date to allow time for review and document verification.

Embassy or High Commission Application Timeline

For patients applying through an Indian Embassy or High Commission, the visa processing time may vary. Common timelines include:

• 5 to 10 working days for most countries
• Longer if additional background checks or interviews are required

Processing time depends on the embassy’s workload and the quality of your documentation.

Common Factors That May Delay Approval

• Incomplete or incorrectly filled application forms
• Missing or unclear invitation letters from the Indian hospital
• Medical reports that do not support the referral
• Inconsistent or outdated identification documents
• Failure to provide evidence of sufficient funds
• Technical issues when uploading documents to the online portal
• Strained political relations between countries

How to Track Your Application

You can check the status of your visa application using:

• The Indian e-Visa portal for online applications
  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa
• The tracking system provided by the embassy or visa service centre in your country

Use your application ID and passport number to log in and follow up on your visa progress.

Arrival in India: What to Do Next

Once your medical visa has been approved and you’ve arrived in India, there are a few important steps you must complete to remain compliant with immigration regulations. These steps are crucial, especially for patients whose treatment requires a longer stay.

1. Complete Your FRRO Registration

All foreign nationals holding a Medical Visa must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival in India.

This rule applies to both:

• The patient
• The attendant(s) travelling on a Medical Attendant Visa

Failure to register within this time may result in penalties, visa complications, or limitations on your treatment journey.

2. Where and How to Register

There are two ways to register with the FRRO:

Online Registration

Most major cities in India allow online FRRO registration through the official portal:
https://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/

Steps:

• Create an account using your email and passport number
• Fill in the required forms
• Upload scanned copies of necessary documents (see next section)
• Track status and wait for confirmation or further instructions

In-Person Registration

If online registration is not supported in your city, you must:

• Visit the nearest FRRO office
• Carry physical copies of all required documents
• Submit your application and attend a short interview or document check

3. Who Must Register?

FRRO registration is mandatory for:

• All patients staying longer than 14 days
• All accompanying attendants
• Minors travelling for medical reasons
• Patients undergoing high-level treatment such as organ transplant or cancer therapy

Tip: Even if your stay is under 14 days, some hospitals and authorities may still recommend registration for smoother follow-up care or visa extension later.

4. Other Immediate Tasks After Arrival

Apart from FRRO registration, make sure you also:

• Confirm your appointment schedule with the hospital
• Finalise local accommodation
• Arrange transport between your stay and the hospital
• Activate a local SIM card for easier communication

Documents Required for FRRO Registration

FRRO registration is a legal requirement for patients and attendants travelling to India on a medical visa. It confirms your stay, treatment intent, and compliance with Indian immigration rules.

Whether you are registering online or in person, you must provide clear and valid documentation.

For the Patient

1. Passport
   • Original passport with visa stamp
   • A clear photocopy of the passport and visa page
2. Visa Approval Copy
   • Printed copy of the e-Visa or embassy-issued visa
3. Recent Passport-Sized Photographs
   • At least four (white background, as per Indian specifications)
4. Indian Hospital Invitation Letter
   • Must clearly state the diagnosis, treatment plan, doctor’s name, and hospital address
   • Should mention expected duration of treatment
5. Medical Reports or Certificate of Admission
   • Diagnostic records from your home country
   • Admission slip or medical certificate from the Indian hospital
6. Residential Proof in India
   • Rental agreement, hotel booking, or formal accommodation letter
   • Utility bill or property document if staying with relatives or friends
7. Undertaking Letter from the Patient
   • A written and signed statement confirming treatment intention and compliance with Indian visa laws

For the Attendant

Each medical attendant must submit the following:

1. Passport and Visa Copy
   • As with the patient, both original and photocopies
2. Photographs
   • Passport-size photographs matching Indian visa photo guidelines
3. Proof of Relationship with the Patient
   • Birth certificate, marriage certificate, or national family ID
4. Accommodation Proof
   • Same as the patient or individual proof if staying separately
5. Undertaking Letter
   • A simple declaration that the purpose of visit is to accompany and assist the patient

Important Reminders

• All documents must be in English or translated officially.
• Ensure names and dates match across all documents.
• Keep both digital and physical copies of everything.
• FRRO officials may request in-person verification or additional details if needed.

Once registered, you will receive a Residential Permit or Registration Certificate. Keep this document safe, as it may be required for hospital check-ins, visa extensions, or at departure from India.

Medical Visa Extension Requirements

Sometimes, a patient’s medical treatment in India may take longer than initially expected. In such cases, the patient (and their attendant) must apply ffor an extension of their medical visa before it expires. Extensions are granted based on medical necessity and supporting documentation from the treating hospital.

When to Apply for an Extension

You should apply for a medical visa extension:

• If your recovery requires more time than anticipated
• If additional procedures or treatment phases are recommended
• If your attending specialist provides medical justification for extended care

Important: Apply for an extension before your current visa expires. Overstaying a visa without approval may lead to penalties or legal issues.

Where to Apply

Extensions must be requested through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in the city where you are receiving treatment.

• Online Application: https://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/
• In-Person: Visit the FRRO office with original and supporting documents

Documents Required for Medical Visa Extension

1. Patient’s Current Passport
   • Original and photocopies of the photo and visa pages
2. Existing Residential Permit or Registration Certificate
   • Proof of your current FRRO registration
3. Letter from the Treating Indian Hospital
   • Explains why more time is required
   • Should include updated diagnosis and treatment plan
   • Signed by the attending consultant or specialist
4. Updated Medical Reports
   • Recent test results or progress notes that support the extension request
5. Proof of Accommodation in India
   • Extended hotel booking, rental agreement, or supporting letter
6. Financial Documents
   • Updated bank statements or evidence of continued ability to support the stay
7. Application Letter by the Patient
   • A signed written request explaining the need for extension

Visa Extension for Medical Attendants

Attendants must also apply for an extension separately, supported by:

• The same documents as the patient
• Proof of relationship with the patient
• A declaration that they are still actively supporting the treatment

Extensions are generally granted for the length of time recommended by the hospital, subject to approval by immigration authorities.

Final Tips for Extension Applications

• Submit your request at least 2 weeks before your visa expiry
• Keep scanned copies of all documents ready for upload
• Follow up regularly via the FRRO portal or helpdesk
• Do not leave India while your extension is under process unless instructed