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India Weighs Visa-on-Arrival for Medical Tourists From US and Most of Europe

The government asked industry to submit proposals to shape a selective scheme tied to certifications and country vetting.

Overview

  • Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal floated the idea at the CII Health Summit in New Delhi and invited a detailed proposal from industry.
  • Officials signaled that any facilitation would build on existing visa-on-arrival and e-visa frameworks and would not constitute an immediate policy change.
  • Goyal cited an estimated $800 billion medical travel market that could approach $1 trillion when wellness services are included.
  • The government is open to proposals on easing tariff structures for medical equipment to support the sector’s growth.
  • Authorities are exploring ways to enable non-resident Indian doctors to work in Indian hospitals, with an emphasis on preserving affordable care for citizens.