India e-Medical Visa for UAE Patients: Fees, Process & Documents
UAE residents travelling to India for medical treatment need an India e-Medical Visa, which costs USD 25 (approximately AED 92) and is applied for entirely online.
Official India e-Medical Visa Fee for UAE Nationals
The India e-Medical Visa fee for UAE residents is USD 25 (approximately AED 92 at current exchange rates). This fee is payable online by credit or debit card and is non-refundable.
Payment is made in USD on the official portal. The AED equivalent varies with the exchange rate at the time of payment.
What Is the India e-Medical Visa?
The India e-Medical Visa (e-MV) is an electronic visa issued by the Government of India specifically for patients travelling to India for medical treatment. It is available to nationals of over 160 countries, including UAE, and is applied for entirely online through the official portal indianvisaonline.gov.in.
The e-Medical Visa allows a stay of up to 60 days per visit per visit and is valid for 60 days from date of issue from the date of issue. It is a triple-entry visa, meaning you can enter India up to three times within the validity period — useful if you need follow-up treatment.
Importantly, the e-Medical Visa also covers one attendant (a family member or caregiver) who can accompany the patient under a separate e-Medical Attendant Visa, which costs USD 25 per attendant.
The visa is linked electronically to your passport — there is no sticker or stamp required before travel. Immigration officers verify it digitally on arrival at designated Indian airports.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Documents Required for India e-Medical Visa
All documents must be uploaded as clear scanned copies (JPEG or PDF). The hospital letter must be on official letterhead and include the patient's name, diagnosis, proposed treatment, and estimated duration of stay.
India e-Medical Visa: Key Facts for UAE Patients
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | e-Medical Visa (e-MV) |
| Applicant Nationality | UAE |
| Visa Fee | USD 25 |
| Attendant Visa Fee | USD 25 per attendant |
| Processing Time | 3–5 business days |
| Validity | 60 days from date of issue |
| Maximum Stay per Visit | 60 days per visit |
| Number of Entries | Triple entry |
| Application Portal | indianvisaonline.gov.in |
| Visa Format | Electronic (no sticker required) |
| Eligible Entry Points | Designated international airports & seaports |
| Extension | Possible via FRRO/FRO in India (up to 6 months) |
Tips for UAE Patients Applying for India Medical Visa
- Apply for your e-Medical Visa at least 2 weeks before your planned travel date.
- The hospital invitation letter is the most critical document. Medworth arranges this for all patients.
- India is just a 3-hour flight from Dubai — one of the closest major medical destinations for UAE residents.
- Medworth has Arabic-speaking coordinators who can assist UAE patients throughout the process.
- Keep two printed copies of your e-Medical Visa — one for immigration and one as a backup.
- Carry USD for initial expenses in India. Exchange to INR at the airport or authorised money changers.
- Many UAE patients prefer Kochi or Chennai for their proximity and the large Indian diaspora community in the UAE.
- If your treatment extends beyond your visa validity, contact Medworth for FRRO extension assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions — India Medical Visa for UAE Patients
How much is the India medical visa fee for UAE residents?
The India e-Medical Visa fee for UAE residents is USD 25 (approximately AED 92 at current exchange rates). This is the official fee set by the Government of India, payable online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. The fee is non-refundable.
How long does it take to get an India medical visa from UAE?
Processing typically takes 3–5 business days. Apply at least 2 weeks before your planned travel date. There is no need to visit the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate in Dubai — the entire process is online.
Which Indian cities are best for UAE medical patients?
Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kochi are the most popular destinations for UAE patients. All have direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi and excellent JCI-accredited hospitals. Medworth recommends the best hospital based on your specific condition.
Can my family member accompany me to India on a medical visa?
Yes. One family member or caregiver can accompany you on an e-Medical Attendant Visa, which also costs USD 25. They must apply separately on the same portal.
How much can UAE patients save on medical treatment in India?
UAE patients typically save 60–80% compared to UAE private hospital costs. Cardiac bypass surgery costs approximately AED 36,000–AED 55,000 in India versus AED 180,000–AED 300,000 in the UAE. Knee replacement costs AED 18,000–AED 27,000 in India versus AED 80,000–AED 130,000 in the UAE.
Is India safe for medical treatment for UAE patients?
Yes. India's top hospitals are JCI-accredited. Many UAE patients have successfully received treatment in India for cardiac conditions, cancer, orthopaedic problems, and fertility treatment. Medworth has Arabic-speaking coordinators for Gulf patients.
Can I extend my India medical visa if my treatment takes longer?
Yes. You can apply for a visa extension through the FRRO in India. Extensions are typically granted for up to 6 months for genuine medical cases. Medworth can assist with the FRRO extension process.
What is the best hospital in India for UAE patients?
The best hospital depends on your specific condition. For cardiac surgery, Apollo Chennai and Fortis Delhi are highly regarded. For orthopaedics, Manipal Bangalore and Max Delhi are excellent. For oncology, Tata Memorial Mumbai and Apollo Chennai are top choices. Medworth will recommend the best hospital for your specific diagnosis.
Indian Embassy / High Commission in UAE
While the e-Medical Visa is applied for entirely online, you may contact the Indian Embassy or High Commission in UAE for queries about your application status or special circumstances.
How Medworth Helps UAE Patients with the Medical Visa
Navigating the India e-Medical Visa process can feel overwhelming, especially when you are already dealing with a health concern. Medworth's patient coordinators guide UAE patients through every step:
Ready to Plan Your Medical Trip to India?
Book a free consultation with a Medworth specialist. We'll confirm your treatment plan, arrange the hospital invitation letter, and guide you through the entire visa process — at no extra cost.