Medical Visa from the Netherlands to India: Complete Guide
Introduction
More and more patients from the Netherlands are choosing medical treatment in India – whether for highly qualified doctors, modern hospitals, or significantly lower treatment costs. The first and most important step is obtaining the Medical Visa from the Netherlands to India.
This guide explains clearly, up-to-date, and completely how Dutch patients, attendants, and medical facilitators can correctly apply for the Indian Medical Visa – without risks or rejections.
What is a Medical Visa for India?
A Medical Visa (MED Visa) is a special visa issued by the Indian government for foreign patients who travel to India exclusively for medical treatment.
Important:
- A tourist visa is NOT permitted for medical procedures
- Hospitals require a valid Medical Visa upon admission
- Attendants also need a Medical Attendant Visa
Who Can Apply for a Medical Visa from Netherlands?
A Medical Visa from Netherlands to India can be applied for by:
Patients
- Dutch citizens
- Foreign nationals living in the Netherlands with valid residence permit
- Patients with confirmed treatment plan from India
Attendants (Companions)
- Family members
- Caregivers
- Maximum 2 attendants per patient
B2B Facilitators
- Medical facilitators
- International coordinators
- Partner clinics & agencies
Types of Medical Visas for India
Medical Visa (Patient)
- For medical treatment in recognized hospitals
- Multiple entry possible
- Extendable in case of medical necessity
Medical Attendant Visa
- For accompanying persons
- Same validity as patient visa
- No work permitted
Step-by-Step: Medical Visa Application (Netherlands → India)
Step 1: Treatment Confirmation from India
- Invitation letter from hospital
- Planned treatment period
- Doctor’s credentials and hospital accreditation
Step 2: Fill Online Application
- Official Indian Visa Portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in)
- Personal & medical information
- Upload digital photograph
3: Upload Documents
- Medical records
- Hospital confirmation letter
- Treatment cost estimate
Step 4: Appointment & Submission
- Visa center or Indian mission in Netherlands
- Biometric data (if required)
- Pay visa fees
Step 5: Visa Approval
- Electronic or stamped visa clearance
- Usually within 3-7 working days
Required Documents (Complete Checklist)
For Patients
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Recent passport-size photograph (white background)
- Medical reports and diagnosis
- Hospital invitation letter from India
- Treatment plan / cost estimate
- Proof of financial means
- Travel insurance (recommended)
For Attendants
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport photograph
- Proof of relationship with patient
- Copy of patient’s Medical Visa
- Hospital letter mentioning attendant requirement
Processing Time & Validity
Processing Time
| Application Type | Standard Processing | Express Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Visa (Patient) | 3-7 working days | 1-3 working days |
| Medical Attendant Visa | 3-7 working days | 1-3 working days |
| e-Medical Visa | 2-4 working days | 24-72 hours |
Note: Processing time depends on complete documentation and current workload at visa centers.
Validity
- Duration: Up to 6 months from date of issue
- Entries: Multiple entries permitted
- Extension: Possible upon medical necessity within India
- Stay: As per treatment duration, extendable
Cost of Medical Visa from Netherlands
Medical Visa Fee Structure Table
| Visa Type | Validity | Netherlands Citizens (EUR) | Other Nationals (EUR) | Service Charges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| e-Medical Visa | 60 days | 25-40 | 40-80 | 15-30 |
| Regular Medical Visa | 6 months | 80-120 | 100-160 | 30-50 |
| Medical Attendant Visa | 6 months | 80-120 | 100-160 | 30-50 |
| Visa Extension (India) | Variable | 50-100 | 50-100 | Hospital assistance |
Additional Costs to Consider:
- VFS Global service charges (if applicable)
- Courier fees for passport return
- Medical report translation (if not in English)
- Travel insurance
- Medical documentation fees
Visa fees are set by the Indian government and may vary based on bilateral agreements.
Common Rejection Reasons – And How to Avoid Them
Common Mistakes Leading to Visa Rejection:
- Incomplete medical documents
- Solution: Provide complete medical history and recent reports
- Unclear hospital confirmation
- Solution: Ensure hospital letter includes treatment details, duration, and costs
- Wrong visa category
- Solution: Apply for Medical Visa, not Tourist Visa
- Contradictions in application
- Solution: Cross-check all information before submission
- Insufficient financial proof
- Solution: Show bank statements proving ability to pay for treatment
- Expired passport
- Solution: Renew passport before applying (must be valid 6+ months)
- Missing attendant relationship proof
- Solution: Provide marriage certificate, birth certificate, or legal documents
With professional guidance, over 95% of rejections can be avoided.
Why Patients from Netherlands Choose India
World-Class Medical Expertise
- Internationally trained surgeons (many from USA, UK, Netherlands)
- Super-speciality hospitals with sub-specialty departments
- English-speaking medical staff
Modern JCI-Accredited Hospitals
- Apollo Hospitals (15+ centers)
- Fortis Healthcare
- Max Healthcare
- Medanta – The Medicity
- Manipal Hospitals
Significantly Lower Treatment Costs
- 70-85% savings compared to Netherlands
- Same quality of care and technology
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
Short Waiting Times
- Treatment can start within 1-2 weeks
- Compare: Netherlands waiting time 6-12 months for many procedures
High Success Rates
- International quality standards
- Latest technology (Robotic surgery, CyberKnife, Proton therapy)
- Excellent patient outcomes
Common Treatments for Dutch Patients:
- Cardiac surgery and interventions
- Orthopedic procedures (joint replacements)
- Cancer treatment (all types)
- Neurosurgery and spine surgery
- Organ transplantations
- Fertility treatments (IVF/ICSI)
- Cosmetic and plastic surgery
Explore treatment options: View all specialties we cover.
How Shifam Health Supports International Patients
Shifam Health is your end-to-end medical tourism partner from the Netherlands to India, managing everything from visa assistance to treatment, travel, and recovery support.
- Visa Support: Medical & attendant visas, documents, hospital letters, and fast-track processing
- Treatment Planning: Hospital & doctor selection, second opinions, appointments, and transparent cost estimates
- Travel & Stay: Flight guidance, airport transfers, accommodation, and local transport
- During Treatment: Admission help, interpreters, family updates, medicines, and 24/7 assistance
- Aftercare: Follow-ups, teleconsultations, medication supply, and coordination with Dutch doctors
- Personal Support: Dedicated case manager, WhatsApp communication, and real-time updates
Medical Visa Application: Netherlands Embassy Locations
Indian Visa Application Centers in Netherlands
| Location | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam | VFS Global, Stadhouderskade 5, 1054 ES Amsterdam | +31 20 244 5250 |
| The Hague | Indian Embassy, Buitenrustweg 2, 2517 KD Den Haag | +31 70 346 9771 |
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Appointment required)
Important: Always check official website for updated information and holiday closures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, any medical treatment requires a Medical Visa, not a tourist visa.
No, medical treatments are not permitted with tourist visas; hospitals will not admit patients without a medical visa.
Yes, it can be extended within India if medical treatment requires longer stay.
Yes, but we recommend having at least one attendant for support during recovery.
Yes, millions of international patients travel safely each year; top hospitals have international patient safety standards.
Up to two Medical Attendant Visas per patient can be issued.
Start Now – Safe, Professional & Stress-Free
Medical treatment abroad requires trust, planning, and experience. With Shifam Health, you have a reliable partner who accompanies you from visa application to your return journey home.
Ready to Begin Your Medical Journey?
Start Your Free WhatsApp Consultation Now:
WhatsApp: +91 81785 95807
Email: contact@shifamhealth.com
Website: www.shifamhealth.com
Join thousands of Dutch patients who trusted Shifam Health for world-class, affordable medical care in India.
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