India to Introduce Arrival Visas for Medical Tourists from US and Europe

India may soon make access to its international healthcare services much smoother. Speaking at the 22nd CII Annual Health Summit in New Delhi, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal revealed that the government is exploring the possibility of introducing visa-on-arrival (VoA) facilities for international patients seeking medical treatments.

Strengthening India’s Global Medical Tourism Hub

The proposal, which surfaced during the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) annual health summit, is seen as a strategic move to further cement India’s position as a leading global destination for medical tourism. Mr. Goyal described the idea as “a good idea” and confirmed that the government would follow through on it.

The idea of visa-on-arrival is a good idea. We’re going to pursue it… For many countries, we already allow visa-on-arrival or e-visa applications… both could be considered, say for the United States, most of Europe… not all, of course… for most countries with which we have a fair amount of comfort and where detailed scrutiny is not required. Of course, we have to look at the certifications and determine for which countries we can allow this.

Piyush Goyal, Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry

The main targets for this potential new policy include the United States and most European countries—though the exact countries have not yet been specified.

When Will Arrival Visas for Medical Travelers Launch?

Minister Goyal indicated that the facility would be rolled out to nations with which India shares a “fair amount of comfort” and where no detailed investigations or verifications are deemed necessary.

Currently, India already offers visa-on-arrival and e-visa options for several countries—including Japan, South Korea, and the UAE—at six select airports. However, implementing this extension for medical purposes will require a robust framework.

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Mr. Goyal emphasized that the government must clarify the certification requirements and the exact list of eligible countries.

The minister also urged the CII to formalize and submit a detailed proposal to the government for review and consideration. This potential change would enhance the accessibility of healthcare services and build global confidence in India’s medical sector.

India’s International Medical Tourism Market

India’s medical tourism market was estimated at between $18.2 billion and $43.8 billion in 2025 according to different sources. Forecasts suggest strong growth, with one report projecting up to 131,000 foreign patients traveling to India by 2025. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual rate (CAGR) of around 12–14% between 2025 and 2035, reaching a value of $58–70 billion.

Visamundi will continue to monitor developments in this policy and the final list of eligible countries, which will be pivotal in planning future medical travel.