Medical tourists from the US and Europe may soon be able to obtain a visa upon arrival in India.

Medical tourists from the US and Europe may soon be able to obtain a visa upon arrival in India.

In an effort to increase health tourism, India is thinking about granting medical and wellness travelers from the US and Europe visa-on-arrival access. Visitors currently require medical or e-medical visas, but the change may soon make it quicker and simpler for foreign patients to travel to India for medical care.
India is investigating a substantial policy change that would greatly facilitate travel for medical and wellness purposes for citizens of the United States and some EU member states.


In an effort to eliminate a significant obstacle for individuals seeking medical care or wellness stays in India, the Indian government is thinking of allowing medical tourists from these countries visa-on-arrival access.

India's Pursuit of Global Medical Hub Status During the CII Health Summit, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal provided this information and stated that the government is receptive to suggestions from the medical community regarding the enhancement of medical equipment import taxes.

According to Goyal, the idea of visa-on-arrival or e-visas is being carefully examined for nations like the US and EU where India has close travel links and mutual confidence.

Opportunity in the Market

With health and fitness included, the global medical tourism sector, which currently stands at roughly $800 billion, could soon reach $1 trillion, according to Minister Goyal. He thinks India may spearhead this expansion by fusing ancient wellness practices like yoga and Ayurveda with contemporary healthcare at reasonable prices.

The Meaning of a Visa-on-Arrival
Medical travelers from the US and specific EU countries would no longer have to finish the frequently difficult visa application process beforehand if the regulation is put into effect. Alternatively, they could:

Take a direct flight and land at a major airport in India.
Acquire a Visa Upon Arrival: At the airport counter, they can pick up their entry permit.
For individuals already preparing a trip to India for medical value travel, whether it be for major surgical care or a yoga-based rehabilitation retreat, this update immediately addresses one of the most frequent causes of friction: the visa application procedure.


Current Requirements for Visas
For medical travelers, the Visa-On-Arrival program is still being considered and is not yet in effect. Travelers must adhere to the current protocols until an official announcement is made:

1. A medical visa (MV)
For specialized care in a reputable Indian hospital or wellness facility, the Medical Visa (MV) is required. must apply at an Indian consulate or embassy.

Important prerequisites include a valid passport for at least six months, a hospital admittance letter, proof of funds, flight reservations, and a care plan.

2. The e-Medical Visa
The e-Medical Visa is intended for people who need medical care. submitted a fully online application through the Indian Visa Online platform.

Important prerequisites include an online application, a photo upload, passport information, and a hospital invitation letter.

3. Visa for e-Medical Attendant
Those traveling with a patient are eligible for the e-Medical Attendant Visa. It is important to remember that this visa needs to be applied for in addition to the e-Medical Visa.

Important prerequisites: To receive specialized care in a reputable Indian hospital or wellness facility. must apply at an Indian consulate or embassy.
Crucial Information

You must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) if you are traveling to India on a medical visa and want to remain longer than is allowed. Regardless of how long you plan to remain, always check the registration requirements.
A Plan of Action for Upcoming Medical Travelers

Here are some tips for anyone who intends to travel to India in the near future for medical or wellness purposes:

Keep an eye on official channels: Watch for formal announcements from the Indian government about the implementation of the visa-on-arrival policy.
Make a plan for the current regulations: Until the new policy is formally established, assume you will have to apply for the regular Medical (MV) or e-Medical Visa.

Secure Documentation: Make sure you get the required admission letter from the reputable hospital or wellness center well in advance and pick your facility carefully.
Verify that your passport has enough blank pages and at least six months left on it.
Insurance is essential: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and travel disruptions, even though the focus is on treatment.

Concluding Remarks
With the proposed visa-on-arrival for US and EU citizens being a game-changer for accessibility, India is unmistakably demonstrating its commitment to become a top destination for medical and wellness travel. Secure your journey by adhering to the current Medical Visa and e-Visa criteria while this promising option is being developed.