India's emergence as a hub for global medical tourism has attracted patients worldwide seeking high-quality treatment at affordable costs. For Fijians considering medical care in India, obtaining a medical visa is a crucial step.
Why India for Medical Treatment?
- Advanced Medical Infrastructure: India is renowned for its hospitals with cutting-edge technology and highly qualified medical professionals.
- Cost-Effective Care: Medical procedures in India are significantly more affordable compared to Western countries while maintaining high standards.
- Diverse Specialties: Indian hospitals offer expertise in various specialties like cardiology, oncology, ophthalmology, and more.
Major Treatment Areas
- Cardiology: Cardiovascular diseases are a concern in Fiji. India offers advanced cardiac care, including bypass surgery, angioplasty, and valve replacements, at a fraction of the cost in Fiji.
- Ophthalmology: Cataract surgery and other vision-related procedures are popular treatment areas for Fijian patients seeking high-quality care at a lower cost.
- Organ Transplants: India has emerged as a leader in organ transplantation, offering hope for Fijian patients with organ failure.
Eligibility for a Medical Visa
- You must be seeking medical treatment at a reputable/recognized/specialized hospital in India.
- The hospital should be able to provide you with a medical opinion outlining your condition and the proposed treatment plan, including estimated costs.
- You can typically travel with two people, such as family members or close associates.
Documents Required for a Medical Visa Application
- A valid passport with at least six months validity and at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
- Completed online application form for an Indian medical visa, accessible through the official Indian visa website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/
- Two recent coloured passport-sized photographs (2”*2”) with a white background.
- A letter from your local hospital in Fiji mentioning your medical history and referral for treatment in India.
- An acceptance letter from the Indian hospital where you will be receiving treatment. This letter should include details like the estimated cost of treatment and the tentative duration of your stay.
- Proof of financial resources -Documents demonstrating your ability to cover medical expenses and living costs during your stay in India (bank statements should not be older than one month, income tax returns, etc.).
- A copy of the return ticket issued by your travel agency or agent. Departure from Fiji should be after two or three working days from the date of application submission.
- Attach every required document to the application form.
- Visa Processing Fees: The processing fee for a medical visa from Fiji to India is approximately FJ$ 188 (INR 6,900) which is upto 6 months per applicant. Payment can be made by cash at the counter at the High Commission's office or by cheque if sent by post. Additional fees may apply for nationals of countries other than Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Nauru, Kiribati, Vanuatu, and Cook Islands. They would be required to submit their resident or work permit.
Visa Application Process
- Gather all required documents.
- Complete the online application form.
- Schedule an appointment (if applicable) or submit your application by mail to the Indian High Commission in Suva, Fiji.
- Attend the visa interview if required.
- Pay the processing fee.
- Processing times can vary (usually it could take a minimum of 2 days), so plan accordingly and submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date.
Flight routes from Fiji to India
1) From Nadi International Airport to Delhi International Airport
2) From Nadi International Airport to Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai
Airlines Fly from Fiji to India
1) Fiji Airways
2) Singapore Airlines
3) Virgin Australia
4) Qantas Airways
Additional Information
- You can find a list of recognized Indian hospitals for medical visas on the website of the High Commission of India in Fiji: https://www.indiainfiji.gov.in/
- For any questions or clarifications, contact the High Commission of India in Suva, Fiji.
- Contact details:
-High Commission of India,
LICI Building, Level 5 & 7, Butt Street, Suva, Fiji
-Working Hours: Monday through Friday, 0900 to 1730
-Tel: (+679) 330-1125
-Fax: (+679) 330-1032
-Consular Emergency (Mobile): (+679) 9921474
-Email of High Commissioner’s Office: hco.suva@mea.gov.in
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