India has emerged as one of the world's leading destinations for medical tourism, offering high-quality healthcare at significantly lower costs than many Western countries. World-renowned hospitals in cities like New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore attract patients from around the globe seeking treatments ranging from cardiac surgery and orthopedic procedures to cancer treatment, fertility services, and organ transplants. The combination of skilled medical professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and affordable costs makes India an attractive option for patients seeking quality healthcare abroad.
When patients travel to India for medical treatment, they often need family members, friends, or caregivers to accompany them for support during their healthcare journey. The India e-Medical Attendant Visa is specifically designed for individuals traveling to India to accompany a patient who holds a valid Medical Visa. This ensures that patients have the emotional and practical support they need during their treatment and recovery period while remaining compliant with Indian immigration requirements.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the India e-Medical Attendant Visa in 2026, including eligibility requirements, the application process, required documentation, fees, and practical tips for those accompanying patients to India for medical treatment. Whether you're a spouse, family member, or designated caregiver, this guide will help you navigate the visa process smoothly so you can focus on supporting your loved one.
What is the India e-Medical Attendant Visa?
The India e-Medical Attendant Visa is an electronic travel authorization specifically designed for individuals accompanying patients who are traveling to India for medical treatment. This visa category recognizes that patients undergoing medical procedures often require the presence and support of family members, friends, or designated caregivers during their treatment and recovery period in India.
The e-Medical Attendant Visa is directly linked to the patient's Medical Visa application. When a patient applies for an Indian Medical Visa, up to two attendants can simultaneously apply for Medical Attendant Visas to accompany them. This coordinated application process ensures that the patient and their support network receive visa approvals together, facilitating travel planning and hospital arrangements.
This visa allows attendants to stay in India for the duration of the patient's treatment, providing essential support including accompanying the patient to medical appointments, providing emotional support during procedures and recovery, helping with communication with medical staff, managing practical matters like accommodation and transportation, and assisting with post-treatment care before returning home. The visa is designed to facilitate the patient's healthcare journey by ensuring they have access to trusted support throughout their time in India.
It's important to understand that the e-Medical Attendant Visa is specifically for accompanying a patient — it doesn't authorize the attendant to receive medical treatment themselves. If an attendant also needs medical care in India, they would need their own Medical Visa. The attendant visa is strictly for the support role, recognizing the important function that family and caregivers play in the healing process.
e-Medical Attendant Visa at a Glance
Purpose: Accompanying a patient for medical treatment
Maximum attendants: 2 per patient
Duration: Matches patient's medical visa period
Entry type: Single or multiple as per patient visa
Application: 100% online process
Processing: 3-5 business days typically
Who Can Apply for the Medical Attendant Visa?
The e-Medical Attendant Visa is available to individuals who are traveling to India specifically to accompany a patient who holds a valid Indian Medical Visa. Eligibility extends to family members, friends, or designated caregivers who will provide support to the patient during their medical journey. The key requirement is that your travel purpose is to accompany and assist the patient rather than to receive treatment yourself or pursue other activities.
Citizens of most countries eligible for India's e-Visa program can apply for the e-Medical Attendant Visa. The application is typically submitted alongside or shortly after the patient's Medical Visa application, creating a linked record that demonstrates your role as an attendant. Having the patient's visa application reference number or approved visa details streamlines the attendant visa process significantly.
Up to two attendants can apply per patient, recognizing that patients undergoing significant medical procedures may need multiple support people. This could include a spouse and an adult child, two parents accompanying a minor patient, or a family member and a professional caregiver. The flexibility allows patients to have appropriate support based on their medical needs and personal circumstances.
- Family members: Spouses, parents, adult children, and siblings can accompany patients
- Relatives: Extended family members with genuine caregiving roles
- Friends: Close friends designated as caregivers when family cannot attend
- Professional caregivers: Nurses or care workers accompanying patients with complex needs
- Limit: Maximum of 2 attendants per patient
I can get my own medical treatment while on a Medical Attendant Visa
The e-Medical Attendant Visa is strictly for accompanying a patient — it does not authorize you to receive medical treatment yourself. If you need medical care in India, you must apply for your own Medical Visa separately. The attendant visa is specifically for the support role.
Application Requirements
Applying for the e-Medical Attendant Visa requires documentation that establishes both your identity and your connection to the patient you're accompanying. The key documents link your application to the patient's Medical Visa, demonstrating the relationship and your role as a caregiver or support person. Prepare these documents before starting your application to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
The hospital in India where the patient will receive treatment often provides documentation supporting both the patient's and attendant's visa applications. Coordinating with the hospital's international patient services department can help ensure you have all necessary documentation in the correct format for Indian immigration requirements.
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages
- Recent passport-style photograph (white background, specifications compliant)
- Scan of passport bio data page (clear and complete)
- Patient's Medical Visa application reference or approved visa copy
- Letter from hospital confirming patient's treatment and your role as attendant
- Proof of relationship to patient (family documents, marriage certificate, etc.)
- Letter explaining your role as attendant and purpose of travel
- Return flight booking or travel itinerary
- Accommodation details in India (hospital guesthouse, hotel, or rental)
- Valid email address for visa delivery and correspondence
- Credit/debit card for fee payment
Hospital Letter is Crucial
Request a letter from the Indian hospital that specifically names you as an attendant for the patient. This letter should include the patient's name, your name, the relationship, treatment dates, and the hospital's contact information. Most hospitals that treat international patients are familiar with this requirement and can provide appropriate documentation.
How to Apply for the e-Medical Attendant Visa
The e-Medical Attendant Visa application is completed online through India's official e-Visa portal. Ideally, coordinate your application with the patient's Medical Visa application to ensure both are processed together. Having the patient's visa reference number available when you apply helps link the two applications and demonstrates the legitimate purpose of your travel.
Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your planned travel date to allow adequate processing time. Medical travel often involves specific treatment dates, so early application ensures you receive approval in time to coordinate flights and hospital arrangements with the patient.
- Access the e-Visa portal: Visit India's official e-Visa website and select 'e-Medical Attendant Visa' as your visa type
- Enter personal details: Complete your information including name, passport details, and contact information exactly as they appear on your passport
- Provide patient information: Enter the patient's details and their Medical Visa application reference number to link your applications
- Explain your relationship: Specify your relationship to the patient and your role as attendant (family member, caregiver, etc.)
- Enter treatment details: Provide information about the hospital, treatment type, and expected duration of stay
- Upload documents: Submit your passport scan, photo, hospital letter, relationship proof, and patient visa reference
- Complete background questions: Answer mandatory security and health declaration questions honestly
- Review application: Verify all information carefully before submission
- Pay the visa fee: Complete online payment using your credit or debit card
- Track and receive: Monitor your application status and download your approved visa when ready
Apply for Your e-Medical Attendant Visa
Fees & Processing Time
The e-Medical Attendant Visa fee is comparable to other e-Visa categories and varies based on nationality. Fees are paid online during the application process and are non-refundable regardless of the outcome. When budgeting for your medical travel, include visa fees for both the patient's Medical Visa and attendant visas as part of overall travel costs.
Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, though applying earlier is recommended given the time-sensitive nature of medical travel. Some applications may require additional review, potentially extending the timeline. Coordinate your visa application timing with the hospital's scheduling to ensure approvals arrive before treatment dates.
e-Medical Attendant Visa Processing
| Aspect | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | Standard e-Visa rate | Varies by nationality |
| Processing time | 3-5 business days | Apply 2+ weeks early |
| Duration | Matches patient's visa | Linked to treatment period |
| Attendants allowed | Up to 2 per patient | Apply simultaneously if possible |
Tips for Medical Attendants in India
Accompanying a loved one for medical treatment in India is both a privilege and a responsibility. As an attendant, you'll play a crucial role in the patient's care experience, from navigating hospital systems to providing emotional support during recovery. Understanding what to expect and preparing adequately will help you fulfill this role effectively while managing your own wellbeing during what can be an emotionally demanding time.
India's major hospitals have dedicated international patient services that can assist attendants with practical matters and communication. Don't hesitate to use these resources — they're designed to support families through the medical tourism journey.
- Hospital accommodation: Many hospitals offer guesthouses or partner hotels nearby for attendants — inquire when scheduling treatment
- International patient services: Use the hospital's international patient coordinator for assistance with logistics, translation, and navigation
- Medical documents: Keep copies of the patient's medical records, visa, and insurance documents organized and accessible
- Communication: Get a local SIM card for reliable communication with the hospital and home country
- Finances: Ensure you have sufficient funds accessible — credit cards are accepted at major hospitals, but have backup options
- Self-care: Take care of your own health and wellbeing — you can't support the patient if you're exhausted or unwell
- Cultural sensitivity: Respect local customs and hospital protocols, which may differ from your home country
- Documentation: Keep records of all medical interactions, prescriptions, and discharge instructions for follow-up care at home
When my mother needed cardiac surgery, we chose Apollo Hospital in Chennai. The visa process for both her Medical Visa and my Attendant Visa was smooth. The hospital's international patient team was incredibly supportive, helping us through everything from accommodation to post-surgery care. The treatment was excellent and having me there made a real difference in her recovery.
Why Use DoVisa?
Coordinated patient and attendant visa processing
Expert review of medical documentation
Guidance on hospital letter requirements
Dedicated support for medical travelers
Experience with complex family applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for the Medical Attendant Visa before the patient's Medical Visa is approved?
What if the patient's treatment extends beyond the visa validity?
Can two attendants from different households apply for the same patient?
Can I leave India and return while on a Medical Attendant Visa?
What if I need medical care myself while in India as an attendant?
Do I need proof of relationship with the patient?
Can I work remotely while on a Medical Attendant Visa?
What hospitals in India are best for international patients?
How far in advance should I apply for the Medical Attendant Visa?
Is travel insurance required for the Medical Attendant Visa?
Ready to Support Your Loved One in India?
Being present for a family member or friend during their medical treatment is one of the most meaningful roles you can play. The India e-Medical Attendant Visa ensures you can be there legally and focus entirely on providing the support your loved one needs during their healthcare journey. India's world-class hospitals combined with the personal support of trusted attendants create optimal conditions for treatment and recovery.
With your e-Medical Attendant Visa approved and travel arrangements coordinated with the patient's, you're ready to embark on this important journey. From initial consultations through treatment and recovery, your presence provides irreplaceable emotional support, practical assistance, and advocacy for the patient's needs.
Start your e-Medical Attendant Visa application today and take the first step toward being there for your loved one when they need you most. With proper preparation and coordinated applications, you'll be ready to focus on what truly matters — supporting the patient through their medical journey to recovery.
India
Capital: New Delhi
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Language: Hindi, English
Timezone: UTC+5:30 (IST)
Processing: 3-5 business days
Quick Facts
- Top medical tourism destination globally
- JCI-accredited hospitals across major cities
- Cost savings of 60-80% vs. Western countries
- Major hospital chains: Apollo, Fortis, Max, Medanta
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My husband needed knee replacement surgery and we chose Fortis Hospital in Delhi. The Medical Attendant Visa process was straightforward — the hospital's international team provided excellent documentation. Surgery was a complete success and the care was exceptional.
Applied as an attendant for my elderly mother who was getting cataract surgery at Sankara Nethralaya in Chennai. The visa took 4 days to process and the hospital guesthouse was very convenient. Highly recommend their eye care center.
Do both attendants need to apply at the same time, or can the second one apply later?
The cost savings were incredible — my father's heart surgery in India was a fraction of what it would have cost in the US, even including flights and accommodation. Apollo Chennai was world-class, and having me there made a real difference to his recovery.
I was worried about the language barrier, but the international patient coordinators spoke perfect English and were available around the clock. They helped with everything from visa documentation to arranging transport from the airport.
How long can I stay after the treatment is complete? My mother's surgery is expected to take 2 weeks including recovery, but I want some buffer time.
Pro tip: Get the hospital to provide their letter in both English and with specific details about treatment dates and your role as attendant. Clear documentation makes the visa process much smoother. Our letter from Medanta was perfect.
Stayed at the hospital guesthouse while my wife was treated for cancer at Tata Memorial in Mumbai. Being so close made it easy to be with her daily. The staff treated us like family throughout the process.
We went for IVF treatment and my husband came as the attendant. The fertility centers in India are excellent and much more affordable. The visa process was straightforward with proper documentation from the clinic.
Accompanied my friend (not family) for spinal surgery. Was concerned about not being a relative, but the hospital confirmed I was the designated caregiver, and the visa was approved without issues. Friends can definitely get attendant visas.
Get travel insurance that covers extended stays! Our planned 3-week trip became 5 weeks when recovery took longer than expected. Having good insurance saved us from financial stress so we could focus on healing.
The coordination between our applications (patient and two attendants) was smooth. We applied together and all three visas came through within a week. DoVisa's guidance on documentation was extremely helpful for our complex application.