India could soon be making access to its international healthcare services much more seamless. The Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, announced at the 22nd CII Annual Health Summit in New Delhi that the government was exploring the possibility of offering visa on arrival for international patients seeking medical treatment.
A strong signal for global medical tourism
The idea, which emerged at the Confederation of Indian Industry's (CII) annual health summit, is seen as a key strategy for strengthening India's position as a global hub for medical tourism. Mr. Goyal described the proposal as « good idea »and confirmed that the government would follow up.
The idea of visa on arrival is a good one. We're going to pursue it... For many countries, we already allow visa on arrival or e-visa applications... Both can be considered, say for the United States, most European countries... not all, in fact... for most of the countries with which we have a good level of trust and where detailed surveys are not necessary. Of course, we need to study the certifications and determine for which countries we can allow this.
Piyush Goyal, India's Minister of Commerce and Industry
The main nations targeted by this potential new policy include UNITED STATES and the most European countries (without specifying which ones, of course...).
When can you arrive in India for a visa on arrival?
The Minister specified that the scheme would be extended to nations with which India enjoys «good confidence» (“a fair amount of comfort”) and where detailed investigations or verifications (sic) are not deemed necessary.
Currently, India already offers visa-on-arrival and e-visas options for several countries (Japan, South Korea and UAE, at 6 airports only). However, implementing this extension specifically for medical care requires a rigorous framework.
Mr. Goyal stressed that the government must clearly determine certifications and a precise list of eligible countries.
The Minister encouraged the ICN to formalize and present a detailed proposal to the government for review and consideration. This potential development could improve accessibility to care and increase global confidence in the Indian healthcare sector.
The international medical market in India
The Indian medical tourism market was estimated at between $18.2 and $43.8 billion in 2025. according to various sources, with strong growth forecasts. One report speaks of 131,000 foreign patients in India in 2025. This market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 12-14% between 2025 and 2035, to reach between $58 and $70 billion.
Visamundi will continue to monitor the evolution of this policy and the list of eligible countries, which will be essential for planning your future medical trips.
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