This guide covers every step for Iraq patients traveling to India for medical treatment — from gathering documents in Baghdad to arriving safely in India.
What Is an Indian Medical Visa?
An Indian Medical Visa (MED) is a special visa category issued by the Government of India specifically for foreign nationals traveling to India for medical treatment. It is different from a tourist visa and cannot be used for treatment purposes.
There are two visa categories:
- MED Visa – Issued to the patient traveling for medical treatment.
- MED-X Visa (Medical Attendant Visa) – Issued to accompanying family members.
A maximum of two attendants may accompany one patient on a MED-X visa.
Quick Reference Table
| Feature | e-Medical Visa | Regular Medical Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | Up to 60 days | Based on treatment duration |
| Entry | Triple entry | Single or triple entry |
| Processing Time | 3–5 days (online) | 3–5 working days (Embassy) |
| Fee (Approx.) | USD 25 | Based on treatment duration |
| Embassy Visit Required | No | Yes |
Eligibility
Iraqi citizens holding a valid Iraqi passport are eligible to apply for an Indian Medical Visa if they are traveling to India for treatment at a recognized Indian hospital.
Applicants must:
- Have a genuine medical condition requiring treatment in India.
- Obtain an invitation or appointment letter from a recognized Indian hospital.
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months from the intended date of arrival in India.
Documents Required
Patient Documents
- Valid Iraqi passport (minimum 6 months validity from the date of arrival, with at least 2 blank pages)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (white or light background)
- Completed online visa application form
Medical Documents
- Referral letter from a registered Iraqi doctor stating the medical condition and confirming the need for treatment abroad
- Relevant medical reports such as blood tests, MRI, CT scan, X-ray, biopsy reports, and other investigation reports
- Invitation or appointment letter from a recognized Indian hospital on official letterhead, signed and stamped, including:
- Patient’s name
- Passport number
- Recommended treatment
- Estimated treatment cost
- Appointment date
Financial and Supporting Documents
- Bank statements for the last three months showing sufficient funds to cover treatment and stay
- Return flight itinerary
For MED-X (Medical Attendant Visa) applicants: Submit all the above documents along with a copy of the patient’s visa application and proof of relationship with the patient.
Health Certificate Requirement
Iraq is not classified as a Yellow Fever-endemic country. Therefore, travelers arriving in India directly from Iraq are not required to present a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.
However, if you have recently traveled through or stayed in a Yellow Fever-risk country before arriving in India, you may be required to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate in accordance with Indian health regulations.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 — Obtain a medical opinion or treatment invitation from a recognized hospital in India.
Step 2 — Collect all required documents.
Step 3 — Complete the online visa application at indianvisaonline.gov.in. For a Regular Medical Visa, select Iraq as your country and Baghdad as your Indian Mission.
Step 4 — Book and attend your embassy appointment (Regular Medical Visa applicants only).
Step 5 — Receive your approved visa.
Step 6 — If applying for an e-Medical Visa, ensure your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) status shows “GRANTED” before traveling.
Visa Fee Structure (2026)
| Visa Duration | Fee (IQD) | Fee (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 6 months | Equivalent of approximately USD 80 in IQD | ~USD 80 |
| 6 months to 1 year | Equivalent of approximately USD 120 in IQD | ~USD 120 |
| e-Medical Visa | Online payment | ~USD 25 |
Note: Visa fees and processing times are subject to change. Always verify the latest charges with the Indian Mission before submitting your application.
Processing Time
The standard processing time for a Regular Medical Visa is 3–5 working days after your embassy appointment.
An e-Medical Visa is generally approved within 3–5 business days after online submission.
The complete process—from receiving your hospital invitation to departing for India—typically takes 7–14 business days.
Applicants can track their visa application status through indianvisaonline.gov.in.
Indian Mission in Baghdad — Contact Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | House No. 22, Street No. 16, District No. 609, Al Mansour, Baghdad, Iraq |
| Phone | +964-1-543-2077 |
| cons.baghdad@mea.gov.in | |
| Visa Submission Hours | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Sunday–Thursday) |
| Passport/Visa Collection | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Sunday–Thursday) |
| Website | indianvisaonline.gov.in |
Note: Iraq follows a Sunday to Thursday working week. Plan your visa appointment and travel schedule accordingly.
Extending Your Medical Visa While in India
If your treatment extends beyond the validity of your Medical Visa, you may apply for a visa extension while remaining in India.
Extension applications must be submitted to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in the city where your treatment is taking place.
Extensions are granted on medical grounds and require a recommendation letter from the treating hospital.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not obtaining a referral letter from a registered Iraqi doctor
- Submitting a hospital invitation letter that was not sent from the hospital’s official email address
- Name mismatches between the passport and hospital documents
- Waiting until the last minute to begin the visa process—start at least 2–3 weeks before travel
- Applying without a complete hospital invitation letter containing all required information
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a referral letter from an Iraqi doctor mandatory?
Yes. A referral letter from a registered Iraqi doctor is mandatory. It should clearly describe your medical condition, explain why treatment abroad is necessary, and be issued on official letterhead.
2. How long does it take to obtain an Indian Medical Visa from Iraq?
An e-Medical Visa generally takes 3–5 business days, while a Regular Medical Visa processed through the Indian Mission in Baghdad usually takes 3–5 working days after your appointment. Overall, expect the process to take approximately 7–14 business days.
3. What is the difference between an e-Medical Visa and a Regular Medical Visa?
An e-Medical Visa is completed entirely online, requires no embassy visit, is valid for up to 60 days, and allows triple entry. A Regular Medical Visa requires an embassy appointment and may be issued for a longer duration depending on the treatment.
4. How many family members can accompany a patient on a Medical Attendant Visa (MED-X)?
Up to two family members may accompany one patient on a Medical Attendant Visa. Each attendant must apply separately and provide proof of relationship with the patient.
5. Can I extend my Indian Medical Visa if treatment takes longer than expected?
Yes. You can apply for an extension through the FRRO before your visa expires by submitting a medical recommendation from your treating hospital.
6. What happens if my Medical Visa application is rejected?
Applications are commonly rejected because of missing referral letters, incomplete hospital documentation, or mismatched personal information. Correct the issue and submit a fresh application.
Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with the Government of India, any Indian Embassy, High Commission, or the Bureau of Immigration. We do not issue visas or collect government visa processing fees. Visa requirements, fees, and processing times are subject to change at the discretion of the Government of India. International travelers may independently apply for an Indian e-Medical Visa through indianvisaonline.gov.in. Our services are strictly limited to logistical planning and assisting patients in obtaining official Medical Visa Invitation Letters from our empanelled partner hospitals.
