Medical Visa to India — Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Overview

India’s medical visa system is one of the most streamlined in the world for healthcare travelers. The e-Medical Visa — launched as part of the government’s “Heal in India” initiative — allows patients from 171 countries to apply entirely online and receive approval within 3–5 business days.

This guide walks you through every step of the process, from gathering documents to clearing immigration at the airport.

e-Medical Visa vs. Regular Medical Visa

Feature	e-Medical Visa	Regular Medical Visa
Application	Online (indianvisaonline.gov.in)	In-person at Indian embassy/consulate
Processing time	3–5 business days	5–15 business days
Validity	60 days from arrival	Up to 1 year
Entries	Triple entry	Multiple entry
Extendable	Yes, up to 6 months	Yes, up to 1 year
Countries eligible	171	All
Cost	$25–$80	$50–$150

Our recommendation: Use the e-Medical Visa for most cases. It’s faster, cheaper, and entirely online. Only opt for a regular medical visa if your treatment plan exceeds 60 days or requires more than 3 entries.

Required Documents

1. Valid passport — Must have at least 6 months validity from your travel date and 2 blank pages
2. Passport-size photograph — Recent, white background, 2×2 inches, JPEG format for online upload
3. Hospital invitation letter — Official letter from your Indian hospital confirming treatment details
4. Medical reports — Documents confirming your condition and need for treatment
5. Proof of funds — Bank statements from the last 3 months showing sufficient funds
6. Return flight itinerary — Booking confirmation (doesn’t need to be a confirmed ticket)

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Get Your Hospital Invitation Letter

This is the single most important document. The letter must be on official hospital letterhead and include:

• Patient’s full name and passport number
• Diagnosis and recommended treatment
• Estimated treatment dates
• Treating doctor’s name and registration number
• Hospital’s address and contact information

Fittour provides this letter free of charge once you confirm your treatment plan with us.

Step 2: Apply Online

1. Visit indianvisaonline.gov.in
2. Click “Apply for e-Visa”
3. Select “e-Medical Visa” as visa type
4. Fill in personal details exactly as they appear on your passport
5. Upload passport scan, photo, and supporting documents
6. Pay the visa fee via credit/debit card or PayPal
7. Note your Application ID — you’ll use this to check status

Step 3: Track and Receive Approval

• Check status at indianvisaonline.gov.in using your Application ID
• Approval arrives via email as an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
• Print the ETA — you must carry a hard copy

Step 4: At the Airport

• Present your ETA, passport, and hospital letter at immigration
• Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are taken at the e-Visa counter
• Medical visa holders are processed at dedicated counters at major airports
• Your Fittour concierge will be waiting outside arrivals

Medical Attendant Visa (for Family)

Up to 2 family members can accompany you on a Medical Attendant Visa. Requirements:

• Patient’s approved visa number
• Same hospital invitation letter
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
• Same fee structure as the medical visa

Tips for Smooth Processing

• Apply 2–3 weeks before travel — don’t cut it close
• Double-check spelling — your name must match your passport exactly
• Use a clear photo — blurry or low-resolution photos cause rejections
• Keep documents handy — immigration may ask for your hospital letter
• Save the embassy number — in case of emergencies: +91-11-2419-1100

Need Help With Your Visa?

Fittour handles the entire visa process for our patients. We provide the hospital invitation letter, review your application before submission, and troubleshoot any issues. This service is completely free.