What the medical visa (M visa) is for
India issues a dedicated medical visa, commonly called the M visa, to foreign nationals travelling specifically to receive treatment at a recognised Indian hospital. It is distinct from a tourist visa and is generally required whenever the purpose of the trip is medical treatment rather than sightseeing, even for short procedures.
A medical attendant visa (MX visa) is issued alongside it for up to two family members accompanying the patient, which is why hospitals usually ask for the attendant's passport details at the same time as the patient's.
The hospital invitation letter
The single most important document in the application is a letter from the treating Indian hospital, addressed to the Indian mission processing the visa. It should state the patient's name, the diagnosis or treatment being sought, the expected duration of treatment, and confirmation that the hospital will take responsibility for the patient's care during that period.
- Patient's full name matching the passport exactly
- Nature of treatment and expected line of management
- Estimated duration of stay in India
- Hospital's registration or accreditation details and contact information
- Names of accompanying attendants, if the letter also supports their visa application
Requesting this letter is usually the first practical step once a hospital has reviewed your reports and agreed to accept you for treatment, so it is worth asking the international patient desk for it as soon as a treatment plan is confirmed rather than waiting until travel dates are fixed.
Supporting documents typically required
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay
- Recent passport-style photographs meeting the visa application specifications
- Medical reports or referral summaries supporting the need for treatment in India
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover treatment and stay
- Return or onward travel itinerary where requested
Where and how to apply
Medical visa applications are generally submitted through India's online e-visa system where the applicant's country is eligible, or through the nearest Indian visa application centre or high commission. Processing times vary and can extend around holidays, so applying as soon as the invitation letter and other documents are ready, rather than close to the planned travel date, reduces the risk of delay.
Extending the visa if treatment takes longer
Recovery does not always follow the exact timeline first estimated, and complications or a longer rehabilitation phase can mean a patient needs more time in India than the visa initially covers. In that situation, the hospital's international patient desk typically assists with an application to the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) for a visa extension, supported by an updated letter from the treating doctor explaining why continued treatment is medically necessary.
Extensions are handled case by case, so it is worth asking the hospital, before you travel, what their process is for supporting patients whose treatment overruns the original visa period, and keeping copies of all medical correspondence in case they are needed for the extension application.
Practical tips before you fly
- Confirm the invitation letter reflects your correct diagnosis and expected stay
- Carry printed copies of the invitation letter, medical reports and visa approval
- Check attendant visa requirements early if a family member is travelling with you
- Keep the hospital's international desk contact details accessible for any airport or immigration query
This article is general information, not medical advice. Diagnosis and treatment decisions rest with a qualified doctor who has examined the patient.