This guide covers every step for Iraq patients traveling to India for medical treatment — from gathering documents in Baghdad to landing 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.
Two visa types exist: the MED visa (issued to the patient) and the MED-X visa (Medical Attendant Visa, issued to accompanying family members). A maximum of 2 attendants may travel with a single patient.
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 | 3-5 days (online) | 3-5 working days (embassy) |
| Fee (approx.) | USD 25 | Based on treatment duration |
| Embassy visit required | NO | Yes |
Eligibility
Iraq citizens with a valid Iraq passport are eligible to apply for an Indian Medical Visa if the purpose of travel is medical treatment at a recognized Indian hospital. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine medical need, hold an invitation/appointment letter from an Indian hospital, and carry a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of arrival.
Documents Required
Patient Documents
- Valid Iraq passport (minimum 6 months validity from 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 Iraq doctor, stating the medical condition and confirming the need for treatment abroad
- All relevant investigation reports (blood tests, MRI, CT scan, X-ray, biopsy reports, etc.)
- Invitation/appointment letter from a recognized Indian hospital (on official letterhead, signed and stamped, including patient name, passport number, treatment recommendation, cost estimate, and appointment date)
Financial and Supporting Documents
- Bank statements for the last 3 months demonstrating sufficient funds to cover treatment and stay
- Return flight itinerary
For MED-X (Attendant) applicants: All of the above plus a copy of the patient’s visa application and proof of relationship to the patient.
Health Certificate Requirement
Iraq is not classified as a Yellow Fever-endemic country. Travelers from Iraq are not required to present a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate when arriving in India.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Step 1 — Get a medical opinion from a hospital in India.
- Step 2 — Collect all required documents.
- Step 3 — Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in. For Regular Medical Visa: select Iraq, select Baghdad as the Indian Mission.
- Step 4 — Book and attend your embassy appointment (Regular Visa only).
- Step 5 — Receive your visa.
- Step 6 — For e-Visa holders: confirm ETA status is GRANTED.
Visa Fee Structure (2026)
| Visa Duration | Fee (IQD) | Fee (USD approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 6 months | ~USD 80 equiv. in IQD | ~USD 80 |
| 6 months to 1 year | ~USD 120 equiv. in IQD | ~USD 120 |
| e-Medical Visa | Online payment | ~USD 25 |
All visa fees and processing times are subject to change. Verify current amounts directly with the Indian Mission before submitting.
Processing Time
Standard processing time for a Regular Medical Visa is 3-5 working days after appointment. e-Medical Visa approvals are typically delivered within 3-5 days of online submission. Total realistic timeline from first contact with a hospital to departure: 7-14 business days. Track visa status at 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’s working week runs Sunday to Thursday. Plan visa appointments and processing timelines accordingly.
Extending Your Medical Visa While in India
If your treatment takes longer than the visa validity allows, you can extend your Medical Visa while remaining in India. Submit extension requests to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in the state where treatment is being received. Extensions are granted on medical grounds with a letter from your treating hospital.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not providing the local Iraq doctor’s referral letter — non-negotiable
- Submitting a hospital invitation letter not emailed from official email
- Name mismatches between passport and hospital documents
- Late planning — begin at least 2-3 weeks before travel
- Applying without a complete hospital letter
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a referral letter from an Iraq doctor mandatory?
Yes. A referral letter from a registered Iraq doctor is non-negotiable. It must state your condition, confirm why treatment is required abroad, and be on official letterhead.
2. How long does it take to get an Indian Medical Visa from Iraq?
e-Medical Visa: 3-5 business days. Regular Medical Visa via Indian Mission in Baghdad: 3-5 working days post-appointment. Total: 7-14 business days.
3. What is the difference between an e-Medical Visa and a Regular Medical Visa?
e-Medical Visa: fully online, no embassy visit, 60 days, triple-entry. Regular: in-person in Baghdad, up to 6 months or longer.
4. How many family members can accompany a patient on a Medical Attendant Visa (MED-X)?
Up to 2 family members on a MED-X visa. Each must apply simultaneously with proof of relationship.
5. Can I extend my Indian Medical Visa if treatment takes longer than expected?
Yes. Apply to the FRRO with a hospital extension letter before your visa expires.
6. What happens if my visa application is rejected?
Common reasons: missing local referral, hospital letter not from official email, name mismatches. Re-apply after addressing the issue.
All visa fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change by the Government of India. Always verify current details at indianvisaonline.gov.in or directly with the Indian Mission in Baghdad before submitting your application.
