How to get Medical Visa for India: A Complete Guide (2026)

India has become a global hub for medical tourism, attracting thousands of international patients every year. With its world-class hospitals, highly skilled doctors, and affordable healthcare services, India offers advanced treatments at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. To seek medical treatment in India, international patients need a Medical Visa (M-Visa), which allows them to stay in the country for treatment at recognized hospitals. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Medical Visa for India, including eligibility, application procedures, required documents, processing time, and essential travel tips.

What is a Medical Visa for India?

A Medical Visa (M-Visa) is a special type of visa issued to foreign nationals seeking medical treatment in India. It is granted to patients who require or want to get specialized treatment in recognized hospitals or accredited medical institutions in India.

Key Features of a Medical Visa:

• Valid for up to 6 months or 1 year, depending on the treatment durations
• Multiple-entry visa, allowing patient to travel back and forth if it is required depending on person to person.
• Can be extended in case of ongoing treatment if it is required.
• Available for patient and up to two medical attendants (family members or caregivers or any relatives).

Eligibility Criteria for a Medical Visa to India

To qualify for an Indian Medical Visa, the patient must:

• Require medical treatment in India for serious health conditions or any health checkup.
• Seek treatment at a recognized hospital or accredited medical Centre in India.
• Provide proof of the need for medical care (doctor’s recommendation or invitation letter)
• Be from an eligible country (Most countries are eligible for an Indian Medical Visa and get best treatment in India)

Conditions Treated Under a Medical Visa to India 2026

The Indian Medical Visa is granted for various treatments, including:

• Cardiac treatment (Heart surgery, bypass, angioplasty)
• Neurosurgery (Brain tumor removal, spinal surgeries)
• IVF & fertility treatment
• Cancer treatment (Chemotherapy, radiation therapy)
• Organ transplant (Kidney, liver, bone marrow)
• Orthopaedic treatments(Joint replacement, spine surgeries)
• Advanced dental procedure
• Cosmetic & reconstructive surgeries
• Ayurveda & alternative traditional medicine treatments

Also Read: India Medical Visa 2026: New Rules, Application Process & FAQs

Step by Step Process to Apply Medical Visa to India

Step 1: Online Visa Application

access the official Online Visa Portal (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/)

choose Medical Visa (M-Visa) from the visa category

Fill out the application form with personal, passport, and all other treatment details

Upload a recent passport-size photograph and required documents

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• Recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant
• Medical certificate or history of medical reports from a hospital in the home country.
• Invitation letter from an Indian hospital confirming the treatment plan of the patient.
• Return flight ticket (recommended but not mandatory)

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

The Indian Medical Visa fee varies by country and visa duration. Payments can be made online or at the visa application portal.

Step 4: Schedule and Attend an Interview

Some applicants may be required to visit the Indian Embassy or Consulate for aninterview or biometric verification to proceed but in majority cases it is not required to attend.

Step 5: Wait for Visa Processing

✅ The processing time for Indian Medical Visa is typically 3 to 7 working days to complete.

✅ Expedited visas are available in urgent medical cases if it is required.

Medical Visa for India: Fees & Processing Time

Note: Fees vary based on nationality. Check with the Indian Embassy or Consulate for the exact payable charges.

How to Extend duration of Medical Visa in India?

If additional treatment is required, Visa extension can be requested through the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office).

Steps to Extend a Visa:

• Visit the FRRO website or nearest FRRO office
• Submit a medical certificate from the treating hospital confirming the need for an extension
• Provide a valid passport, visa, and updated treatment records
• Pay the visa extension fee (varies by duration)

Note: Visa extensions are usually granted for 6 months to 1 year, depending on the treatment plan and requirement.

Medical Attendant Visa: For Family Members & Caretaker or for relatives who will be accompanied with patient’s

Patients can bring up to two medical attendants (family members, friends, or caretaker) on a Medical Attendant Visa (MX Visa).

Key Features of Visa for Medical Attendant:

• Same validity as the patient’s Medical Visa
• Can be extended if the patient’s visa is extended
• Multiple entry allowed

Required Documents for a Medical Attendant Visa to India:

•  Passport with at least 6 months validity
• Visa application form & photograph
• Relationship proof with the patient (birth/marriage certificate)
• Invitation letter from the hospital in India

India’s Medical Visa makes it easy for patients to receive affordable, high-quality treatment without long waiting times.

If you’re planning now medical treatment in India, start your Medical Visa application today and experience the best healthcare services at a fraction of global costs comparing to other western countries!

What is the difference between an e-Medical Visa and a regular Medical Visa?

Conclusion

Securing a medical visa for India may seem complex at first, but with the right guidance and preparation, it becomes a smooth and empowering step toward quality healthcare. India continues to stand out as a global leader in medical tourism, offering advanced treatments, experienced specialists, and compassionate care at affordable costs.

By understanding the process, organizing your documents, and choosing the right support system, you can focus less on paperwork and more on what truly matters—your recovery and well-being. With trusted partners like Shifam Health by your side, your journey from application to treatment can be seamless, safe, and stress-free.

Your path to healing begins with a single step and make it count by choosing India with confidence.

FAQs

Can I enter India through any airport with a medical visa?

You must enter through designated international airports. Major airports are valid, including:

• Delhi (DEL)
• Mumbai (BOM)
• Bangalore (BLR)
• Chennai (MAA)
• Hyderabad (HYD)
• Kochi (COK)

Can I apply for a medical visa through a medical tourism agency?

Yes. Reputed facilitators like Shifam Health simplify the process:

• Help with doctor appointments
• Arrange invitation letters
• Guide through visa application
• Offer airport pickup and hotel options