Medical Visa from Spain to India: Updated Guide
Introduction
Spain and India share a long history of diplomatic engagement, trade cooperation, and growing people-to-people connections. In recent years, this relationship has expanded into the healthcare sector, with a rising number of Spanish patients choosing India for advanced and affordable medical treatment. The journey begins with understanding the Medical Visa from Spain to India, a specialised visa designed for international patients seeking treatment in recognised Indian hospitals.
India has become one of the world’s leading healthcare destinations. It offers advanced surgical technology, internationally trained doctors, English-speaking medical teams, and treatment costs that are often 60–80% lower than in Spain or other European countries. For Spanish patients, access to this level of care starts with securing the correct medical visa.
Choosing the right visa category ensures that your treatment journey is smooth, legally compliant, and stress-free. The Indian government has structured the medical visa system to support international patients with simplified documentation, flexible validity, and extension options when medically required.
Understanding the Medical Visa for Spanish Citizens
The Medical Visa (M Visa) is issued to foreign nationals travelling to India specifically for medical treatment. Spanish passport holders can apply either through the e-Medical Visa system or via the Indian Embassy in Madrid, depending on treatment duration and complexity.
This visa category allows patients to receive treatment at recognised and registered hospitals across India. It is different from a tourist visa. It permits longer stays, multiple entries, and medical extensions when required by the treating hospital.
A major advantage is that up to two family members can accompany the patient on a Medical Attendant Visa. This ensures emotional support during surgery, recovery, and follow-up care.
Types of Medical Visas Available for Spanish Patients
Spanish applicants generally choose between two main options:
1. e-Medical Visa
- Valid for 60 days from arrival
- Triple entry permitted
- Ideal for short procedures, diagnostics, minor surgeries
2. Regular Medical Visa (Embassy Application)
- Valid up to 1 year
- Multiple entries allowed
- Suitable for cancer treatment, organ transplant, or long-term therapy
Complete Documentation Requirements
Preparing accurate documentation is the most important step in securing approval for a Medical Visa from Spain to India.
Essential Documents Checklist
- Valid Spanish passport (minimum 6 months validity from arrival)
- Recent passport-size photographs (white background)
- Completed online visa application form
- Official medical invitation letter from an Indian hospital
- Recent medical reports and diagnostic tests
- Proof of financial capacity (last 6 months’ bank statements)
- Travel itinerary (tentative flight bookings)
- Accommodation details in India
- Travel insurance (recommended)
For attendants:
- Proof of relationship with patient
- Copy of patient’s medical visa approval
Step-by-Step Application Process
For e-Medical Visa (Online Application)
Step 1: Online Registration
Visit the official Indian e-Visa portal and select “e-Medical Visa.” Fill in passport details and treatment information carefully.
Step 2: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of passport bio page, recent photograph, and hospital invitation letter.
3rd : Payment of Visa Fee
The approximate fee for Spanish citizens ranges between USD 80–100 depending on season and duration.
Step 4: Processing Period
Approval generally takes 3–5 business days.
Step 5: Visa Approval Email
Once approved, the visa is sent electronically. Print copies for travel.
For Regular Medical Visa (Embassy Route)
Patients requiring extended stay must apply through the Indian Embassy in Madrid. Processing usually takes 7–10 business days. In complex medical cases, additional verification may be requested.
Cost Comparison: Treatment + Visa Investment
Spanish patients often compare India with Spain, Germany, or the United States before deciding. Here’s a simplified overview:
| EXPENSE CATEGORY | INDIA (USD) | SPAIN (USD) | USA (USD) | SAVINGS WITH INDIA | BOOK NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Visa Fee | 80–100 | N/A | 160 | Moderate | |
| Heart Bypass Surgery | 5,500 – 8,000 | 25,000 – 40,000 | 75,000+ | 70–90% | |
| Hip Replacement | 4,500 – 7,000 | 18,000 – 30,000 | 40,000+ | 75–85% | |
| Cancer Treatment (per cycle) | 2,500 – 4,000 | 8,000 – 15,000 | 25,000+ | 70–85% | |
| Organ Transplant | 13,000 – 20,000 | 60,000+ | 300,000+ | 80–95% | |
| Knee Replacement | 4,000 – 6,500 | 15,000 – 25,000 | 35,000+ | 75–85% |
These estimates include hospital charges, surgeon fees, and basic stay. Medication and follow-up costs are also significantly lower in India.
Visa Processing Timeline
| APPLICATION TYPE | PROCESSING TIME | VALIDITY | ENTRY TYPE | BEST FOR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| e-Medical Visa | 3–5 days | 60 days | Triple | Short procedures |
| Regular Medical Visa | 7–10 days | Up to 1 year | Multiple | Long-term treatment |
| Visa Extension | 15–20 days | As required | N/A | Extended therapy |
| Medical Attendant Visa | Same as patient | Same as patient | Same | Family support |
Why Spanish Patients Choose India
Advanced Medical Infrastructure
India has more than 40 internationally accredited hospitals and hundreds of NABH-certified facilities. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore offer robotic surgery, precision oncology, and advanced cardiac units.
Highly Qualified Specialists
Indian doctors are globally trained and highly experienced. Many have worked in Europe and the UK.
👨⚕️ We arrange online consultations with your chosen specialist before travel.
English-Speaking Environment
English is widely spoken in Indian hospitals, making communication smooth for Spanish patients.
🌐 Interpreter support can also be arranged if preferred.
Comprehensive Treatment Packages
Hospitals offer clear package pricing covering surgery, hospital stay, medications, and follow-up.
Top Medical Specialities Preferred by Spanish Patients
| SPECIALTY | POPULAR PROCEDURES | SUCCESS RATE | AVERAGE COST (USD) | LEADING CITIES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiology | Bypass, Angioplasty | 95–98% | 4,500 – 10,000 | Delhi, Chennai |
| Orthopedics | Joint Replacement | 93–97% | 3,500 – 8,000 | Mumbai, Hyderabad |
| Oncology | Chemotherapy | 85–92% | 2,000 – 6,000 | Mumbai, Bangalore |
| Neurology | Brain Surgery | 90–95% | 5,000 – 12,000 | Delhi, Vellore |
| Organ Transplant | Kidney, Liver | 88–94% | 12,000 – 25,000 | Chennai, Delhi |
| Fertility | IVF | 60–75% | 2,500 – 5,000 | Delhi, Mumbai |
| Cosmetic Surgery | Rhinoplasty | 92–96% | 1,500 – 4,000 | Mumbai |
| Ophthalmology | LASIK | 96–99% | 800 – 2,500 | Chennai |
One-Liner FAQs
How long does a Medical Visa from Spain to India take?
3–5 days for e-visa, 7–10 days via embassy.
Can family travel with me?
Yes, up to two attendants can apply.
Is the visa extendable?
Yes, with hospital recommendation through FRRO.
Are flights available from Spain to India?
Yes, direct and connecting flights operate from Madrid and Barcelona.
Is medical treatment safe in India?
Yes, accredited hospitals follow international safety protocols.
How Shifam Health Supports Spanish Patients
Shifam Health has assisted thousands of international patients in accessing quality treatment in India. Spanish patients receive complete coordination from initial consultation to post-treatment follow-up.
Our services include:
- Free medical opinion from top specialists
- Visa documentation and embassy coordination
- Hospital selection based on diagnosis
- Flight and accommodation support
- Airport pickup assistance
- Treatment scheduling and case management
- Telemedicine follow-ups after returning to Spain
Conclusion
Securing a Medical Visa from Spain to India is a straightforward process when guided properly. India offers Spanish patients a powerful combination of advanced medical expertise, internationally accredited hospitals, and significant cost savings. The visa system is structured to support international patients with flexible options and extension provisions.
With correct documentation, timely application, and professional coordination, your healthcare journey can be smooth and stress-free. Thousands of European patients already trust India for life-saving and elective treatments.
Now is the right time to explore affordable, world-class care in India with the right guidance.
