a. The Indian Missions/Posts abroad may scrutinize the medical documents very carefully and satisfy themselves about the bonafide purpose for which medical treatment visa is being requested.

b. Mission may be satisfied that the applicant has sought preliminary medical advice from his country of origin/country of residence and he has been advised to go for specialized medical treatment. In case the foreign national desires to go for treatment under the Indian system of Medicines, his case may also be considered.

c. This type of visa should be granted for seeking medical attendance only in reputed recognized specialized hospitals/treatment centers in the country. Although non-exhaustive, following illustrative list of ailments would be of primary consideration: serious ailments like neuro-surgery; ophthalmic disorders; heart related problems; renal disorders; organ transplantations; plastic surgery; joint replacement etc. The basic idea would be that the mission may be satisfied about the need of the foreign national to come to India for medical treatment/ health enhancements.

Validity of Visa and extension of Visa

The initial period for such a Visa may be up to a period of one year or the period of treatment, whichever is less. This can be extended for a further period up to one year by the State Government/ FRROs on the production of medical certificate/advice from the reputed/ recognized/specialized hospitals in the country.

Any further extension will be granted by the Ministry of Home Affairs only on the recommendations of the State Government/FRROs supported by appropriate Medical documents. Such a Visa will be valid for maximum three entries during one year. State Government/FRROs may permit one additional entry in emergency situation, if required.

Registration

It is mandatory for foreigners coming on 'M Visa' to get themselves registered well within the period of 14 days of arrival with the concerned FRROs/FROs 42D Visa to attendant/family members. Attendant/family members of the patient coming to India for medical treatment shall be granted miscellaneous Visa co-terminus with the 'M Visa' of the patient. Such visa may be granted the spouse/children or those who have blood relations with the patient. However, not more than two attendants may be allowed at a time for grant of miscellaneous visa. Such visa will be called 'MX visa'. Such foreigners are also required to get themselves registered with the local FRROs/FROs well within 14 days from the date of arrival.

Registration for Pak and Bangladeshi National

It may be clarified that 'Medical Visa' will be available to all the foreign nationals including China, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. However, Registration formalities for Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals will be as per the provisions contained in para 106 in respect of Bangladeshi national and para 118 of the Visa manual in respect of Pakistani nationals. Similarly, entry and departure of these foreign nationals will also be governed as per the existing policy in respect of these nationals.