Who is eligible

The Medical (M) Visa is available to foreign nationals travelling to India specifically for treatment at a recognised Indian hospital or medical institution. It is distinct from a standard tourist visa, and most Indian hospitals and immigration authorities expect genuine medical travellers to apply under this category rather than entering on a tourist visa and seeking treatment informally, which can create complications with hospital admission and insurance documentation.

Document checklist

  • Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
  • Recent passport-style photographs meeting Indian visa specifications
  • A formal invitation/recommendation letter from the treating Indian hospital, confirming the diagnosis category, recommended treatment, and treating specialist
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover treatment and stay (requirements vary by Indian mission)
  • Completed online visa application form through India's official e-Visa or mission-specific portal, depending on nationality
  • For any accompanying family member, a separate Attendant (MX) Visa application — see our M-Visa vs MX-Visa guide for details

Application timeline

1
Week

Treatment plan confirmed

Hospital confirms diagnosis review and recommended treatment, issuing the formal invitation letter needed for the visa application.

2
Week

Application submitted

M-Visa application submitted with the invitation letter and supporting documents, either online or through the relevant Indian mission, depending on your country of citizenship.

5-10
Working days

Processing

Medical visas are processed on a priority basis. Most applications are resolved within this window, though it can vary by mission and nationality.

3
Week

Visa issued, travel booked

Once approved, travel dates are confirmed around the hospital's admission schedule.

Step-by-step process

  1. Share your diagnosis and existing medical reports with the hospital or facilitator for remote review
  2. Receive a confirmed treatment plan and request the hospital's formal invitation letter
  3. Submit your M-Visa application with the invitation letter and required documents
  4. Receive visa approval and finalise travel dates aligned with your admission date
  5. Arrange Attendant (MX) Visas for any accompanying family members in parallel
The single most common delay in this process is not the visa processing itself — it's waiting too long to request the hospital's invitation letter. Start that step as soon as your treatment plan is confirmed.

Extensions and follow-up visits

If treatment takes longer than initially planned, or you need to return for a follow-up procedure within the visa's validity window, extensions are handled through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) while you are in India, supported by updated documentation from your treating hospital confirming the need for continued care.

Visa rules, processing times, and document requirements can change and vary by nationality. Always confirm current requirements with the official Indian e-Visa portal or your nearest Indian mission before applying, or ask your facilitator to confirm specifics for your country.

Frequently asked questions

How long is an India Medical Visa valid for?

The M-Visa is typically issued for up to one year with multiple entries, though the actual length and number of permitted entries depend on the nationality of the applicant and the recommendation in the hospital's invitation letter. Most patients only need a fraction of this validity for a single treatment episode, but the extended window allows for follow-up visits if needed.

How long does it take to get a Medical Visa approved?

Indian Medical Visas are processed on a priority basis, commonly within 5-10 working days of a complete application, though this can vary by the applicant's country of citizenship and the specific Indian mission processing the application.

What documents do I need for the hospital invitation letter?

The hospital typically requires your passport details, a summary of your diagnosis and the recommended treatment, and confirmation of the treating hospital and specialist. A facilitator usually manages this exchange between you and the hospital so the letter is ready in time for your visa application.

Can the Medical Visa be extended if treatment takes longer than expected?

Yes, extensions are possible through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India if treatment requires a longer stay than initially planned, supported by updated documentation from the treating hospital.