How to Plan Your Cosmetic Surgery Trip to India (Legal Paperwork + Visas)
Planning a cosmetic surgery trip to India is exciting—but it also requires proper paperwork, correct visas, and clear communication with your chosen hospital. This guide explains exactly what foreign nationals must do to legally, safely, and smoothly enter India for cosmetic procedures.
This page is designed for travelers who want a simple, friendly, and authoritative explanation of every requirement: visas, documents, medical letters, payments, immigration rules, and recovery arrangements.
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Why India Is a Top Choice for Cosmetic Surgery
India is one of the world’s most trusted destinations for cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. Every year, thousands of international patients visit major medical cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad for world-class aesthetic treatments.
Top reasons international patients choose India
- Highly trained, internationally certified plastic surgeons
- Advanced hospitals following global safety standards
- Transparent pricing and significantly lower costs
- Modern technology including VASER, FUE, lasers & 3D imaging
- Excellent privacy, cultural sensitivity, and postoperative care
Before traveling, you must choose a hospital, speak to your surgeon, and prepare your documents properly. This guide walks you through everything.
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Which Visa Do You Need for Cosmetic Surgery in India?
For most cosmetic procedures, foreign nationals typically travel with either a Medical Visa (MED) or a Medical Attendant Visa (MED-X) for companions. In many countries, minor cosmetic procedures may also be permitted under a regular e-Medical Visa or e-Tourist Visa as long as the procedure is non-invasive and the hospital allows it.
The three visa possibilities for aesthetic procedures
- 1. Medical Visa (MED): Required for all surgical procedures (rhinoplasty, liposuction, breast surgeries, tummy tuck, etc.).
- 2. e-Medical Visa: A simplified electronic version available for citizens of eligible countries.
- 3. Tourist Visa: Allowed only for non-surgical cosmetic services such as Botox, fillers, chemical peels, etc., depending on hospital policy.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Medical Visa
The Medical Visa is the most important document for traveling to India for cosmetic surgery. The process is straightforward when you have the correct hospital papers.
Step 1: Choose a hospital and request a consultation
Most hospitals offer free virtual or email consultations where you share photographs, medical history, and expectations.
Step 2: Receive a “Treatment Recommendation Letter”
This letter confirms that the surgeon has reviewed your case and recommends the procedure.
Step 3: Apply online through the official Indian visa portal
- Fill in the online form
- Upload passport and photographs
- Upload hospital treatment letter
Step 4: Submit biometrics (if required)
Step 5: Wait for approval (usually 48–72 hours)
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Documents Required (Legal & Medical)
To prepare for your medical trip, keep the following documents ready.
1. Identity & Travel Documents
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Recent passport photographs
- Confirmed flight tickets
2. Medical Documents
- Diagnosis/Treatment letter from Indian hospital
- Past surgical records (if applicable)
- List of medications
3. Legal/Administrative Documents
- Visa approval printout
- Proof of funds for the trip
- Hotel or recovery accommodation booking
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How to Get a Treatment Confirmation Letter from the Hospital
Indian hospitals follow a structured and ethical verification process. You must provide clear photographs (for face/body procedures), your medical history, and a short description of your goals. The hospital will then issue a Treatment Confirmation Letter.
What the letter typically contains
- Recommended procedure
- Estimated costs
- Number of days required for stay
- Surgeon’s name and specialty
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Arrival in India: Immigration, FRRO & Local Registration
India’s immigration officers are professional, friendly, and helpful. They may verify your documents, confirm your hospital destination, and stamp the permitted stay duration.
Do you need FRRO registration?
International patients staying longer than the permitted visa duration or returning for follow-up may require FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) formalities. Hospitals guide patients through the process.
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Payment Rules for International Medical Tourists
Indian hospitals follow legally compliant and patient-friendly payment rules. You may pay through:
- International credit or debit cards
- Bank transfer (SWIFT)
- Forex card
- Cash (in permitted limits)
Hospitals issue all legal receipts and discharge summaries for your records.
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After-Surgery Stay, Recovery & Final Paperwork
Most cosmetic surgeries require 5–14 days of postoperative recovery in India. During this period, your surgeon will monitor swelling, healing, stitches, and dressings.
Your hospital will provide:
- Discharge summary
- Prescription for medications
- Follow-up care plan
- Fit-to-fly certificate for airlines (if required)
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Downloadable Checklist for Cosmetic Surgery Travelers
- Valid passport & visa
- Treatment confirmation letter
- Medical files & photos
- Hotel reservation
- Airport pickup details
- Funds or cards for payment
- Clothing suitable for recovery
Your hospital can also provide a custom checklist based on your surgery type.
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Authoritative Links
Below are official government and regulatory resources that provide verified information about visas, immigration rules, and healthcare regulations in India:
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