Navigating Indian Medical Visa Procedures and Legal Formalities for Bangladeshi Patients

When Bangladeshi patients consider traveling to India for medical treatment, understanding the medical visa process is essential. Navigating through the visa procedures and legal requirements can seem overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the process. This guide aims to simplify the journey, providing clear, straightforward information to help patients and their families prepare for a successful medical trip to India.

What is an Indian Medical Visa?

An Indian medical visa is a special type of visa designed specifically for foreign nationals seeking medical treatment in India. This visa is essential for patients travelling to India for medical purposes and allows them to receive treatment at recognised hospitals or medical institutions within the country.

Types of Medical Visas:

• Patient Visa: Issued to the patient undergoing treatment.
• Medical Attendant Visa: Issued to the accompanying family members or relatives. Up to two attendants are allowed to accompany the patient, and these visas are usually granted to the patient’s closest family members.

Required Documentation for Medical Visa Application

Valid Passport:

• The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in India.
• It should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping by Indian immigration officials.

Recent Passport-Sized Photographs:

• Two recent colour photographs of the patient and any accompanying attendants.
• The photographs should be clear, with a white background, and meet the size and format requirements specified by the Indian visa authorities.

Medical Documentation:

• A medical report from a certified doctor in Bangladesh, confirming the diagnosis and the necessity of treatment in India.
• Any relevant past medical reports that support the diagnosis.

Hospital Invitation Letter:

• An official letter from the hospital in India where the treatment will be conducted.
• The letter should clearly outline the treatment plan, duration of stay, and other relevant details. It must be on the hospital's official letterhead and signed by the appropriate authority.
• For a smooth visa application process, obtain your official medical invitation letter from Apollo Hospitals India by visiting Bangla Health Connect.

Proof of Financial Means:

• Bank statements, insurance documents, or other financial records that prove the patient has sufficient funds to cover the cost of treatment, travel, and stay in India.
• Some applicants may also need to provide proof of payment for the treatment or an assurance from the hospital.

Additional Documents:

• Return Ticket: A confirmed return ticket to Bangladesh, indicating that the patient and their attendants will return after the treatment. For a hassle-free booking experience, arrange your flights through Bangla Health Connect.
• Police Clearance Certificate: In some cases, a police clearance certificate may be required to ensure that the patient and their attendants have no criminal record.
• Vaccination Certificates: Depending on the patient’s health condition, vaccination certificates, such as Yellow Fever and Oral Polio Vaccination, may be required.

Special Considerations:

• Attendant Documents: For each attendant, documents similar to those required for the patient (passport, photographs, proof of relationship, etc.) must be provided. The relationship with the patient (e.g., spouse, parent, sibling) should be clearly documented.
• Additional Health Documentation: Depending on the nature of the illness, additional health certifications or clearances may be required to ensure the safety of both the patient and the general public.

Navigating the medical visa application process can be challenging, but having the right documents in place is key to success. For personalised support and to streamline your application, visit Bangla Health Connect here and let our experts guide you through every step.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Medical Visa

How to fill Application for Patient

How to fill Application for Attendar

Online Application Process

Applying for an Indian medical visa online is a convenient option for Bangladeshi patients, allowing them to complete the process from home without the need to visit an embassy. Here’s how to do it:

1. Access the Official Website:

Visit the Indian Visa Online portal dedicated to Bangladeshi applicants. Ensure you are on the official website to avoid fraud.

2. Filling Out the Application Form:

• Personal Details: Enter your full name, date of birth, nationality, and other basic information as it appears on your passport.
• Passport Information: Provide your passport number, place of issue, and validity dates. Double-check to ensure accuracy.
• Medical Details: Include details of your medical condition, the treatment planned in India, and the hospital where you will be treated.
• Attendant Information: If applicable, fill in the details of the attendants who will accompany you, including their relationship to you.

3. Uploading Documents:

• Photograph: Upload a recent passport-sized photograph following the specified guidelines (format, size, and background).
• Passport Scan: Provide a clear scan of your passport’s information page.
• Hospital Letter and Medical Reports: Upload the hospital invitation letter along with any supporting medical documents.

4. Fee Payment:

• Pay the visa application fee using the available online payment options (credit/debit card, bank transfer). Make sure to save the payment receipt.

Offline Application Process

For those who prefer or require an offline application, here’s how to apply through the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC):

1. Visit the Nearest IVAC:

Locate the closest IVAC in Bangladesh. They are present in major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet.

2. Collect the Application Form:

Obtain the visa application form from the IVAC or download it from the official website and print it out.

3. Complete the Form:

Fill out the application form with the same details as required for the online process. Be precise and avoid any errors.

4. Attach Required Documents:

• Gather all necessary documents, including passport, photographs, medical reports, and the hospital invitation letter.
• Attach photocopies of these documents along with the completed application form.

5. Submit the Application:

• Submit the form and documents at the IVAC. They may ask you to verify your details, so bring the original documents with you.
• Pay the visa processing fee at the centre.