Getting a treatment in India? You have picked the best location for medical treatments right now and the Indian medical sector is just getting better. With advanced technology and highly skilled doctors, you can find world-class treatment in this sub-continent.
Medical visa from Canada to India requires a few steps and some document preparation to ensure you get it in the first go. The following guide will help you understand the process easily so that you can get your treatment in India smoothly.
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents:
Valid Canadian Passport (with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages)
Doctor’s Referral Letter (from a Canadian or Indian hospital)
Medical Invitation Letter (from an Indian government-recognized hospital)
Proof of Financial Means (bank statements or sponsor letters)
Completed Visa Application Form
Passport-Size Photos (2x2 inches, white background)
Visa Fee Payment Receipt (approximately $100–$150 CAD, depending on duration)
Important Note:
The Medical Visa permits up to three attendants (family members) on the same application.
The maximum stay is one year (multiple entries), but extensions are required for stays beyond 180 days.
Secure a referral letter from your Canadian doctor stating the need for treatment in India.
Obtain an appointment confirmation letter from an Indian government-approved hospital (e.g., Apollo, Fortis, AIIMS).
Visit the official website of Indian Visa from India Visa Online
Select "Medical Visa" and fill out the required details.
Upload necessary documents and print the submitted application form.
Book an in-person appointment at a BLS International Visa Center (locations in Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, etc.).
While walk-ins may be accepted, scheduling an appointment reduces waiting time.
Bring the following to your appointment:
Printed visa application form
Original passport and a photocopy
Medical documents (referral and appointment letters)
Visa fee payment receipt
Provide fingerprints and a photograph at the center.
Processing typically takes 5–10 business days (expedited processing may be available).
Track your application status via the BLS/VFS portal.
The visa will be stamped in your passport (e-Visa is not available for Medical Visas).
In-Person Submission Required: Unlike tourist e-Visas, Medical Visas must be applied for in person.
Visa Extensions: If treatment exceeds 180 days, apply for an extension at the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) in India.
Attendant Visa: Family members must apply under the "MED-X" (Medical Attendant Visa) category.
COVID-19 Regulations: Verify if your hospital requires RT-PCR tests or vaccination proof before travel.
Here are a few frequently asked questions about the medical visa process.
No. Medical Visas require an in-person application and cannot be processed online.
The visa is valid for up to one year with multiple entries, but each stay is limited to 180 days (extendable in India).
Only government-recognized hospitals (e.g., Apollo, Max, AIIMS) qualify. Verify the hospital’s eligibility on the Ministry of Health website.
Yes. Up to two attendants can apply for a Medical Attendant Visa (MED-X) alongside your application.
Visit the FRRO office in India within 14 days of arrival to apply for an extension.
While not required, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical complications or trip disruptions.
For urgent inquiries, contact:
BLS Canada Helpline: +1-800-255-0877
Indian Embassy (Ottawa)
You can also reach out to our supportive coordinators for the best assistance through any of our channels. Safe travels!
Reference - India Visa Online