India's Medical Tourism in 2025: Record Growth and What It Means for Your Treatment Journey
Discover why 2025 is a landmark year for India's medical tourism
India's medical tourism sector is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025. Between January and April alone, 131,856 international patients arrived for treatment, representing 4.1% of all foreign tourist arrivals during that period. This follows a steady rise over recent years, reaffirming India's position as a major global destination for medical care.
Fast Facts: Medical Tourism in India — 2025
👥 Patients (Jan-Apr)
131,856
📈 Share of all foreign tourists
4.1%
🌐 E-Medical Visa Access
171 countries
🏆 Top Source Country
Bangladesh
💰 Average Cost Savings
50-70% vs. US/Europe
Key Drivers Behind the Growth
Data and market developments point to several reasons for the current surge:
High-Quality Healthcare at Lower Cost
Advanced treatments in cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and cosmetic surgery at significantly lower costs
Improved Accessibility
E-medical visas available to citizens of 171 countries
Recognized Medical Standards
Hospitals with NABH and JCI international accreditations
Integration with Wellness
Combining modern medicine with Ayurveda and yoga
Patient Origins
International arrivals are diverse, with notable patient inflows from:
- Bangladesh — Over 480,000 patients in 2024
- Middle East & Africa — Iraq, Somalia, and Oman among the leading source countries
- Central Asia — Significant numbers from Uzbekistan
- Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) — Returning for treatment due to affordability and expanded insurance coverage
Top 5 Treatments International Patients Book
| Rank | Treatment | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cardiac Care | Bypass surgery, angioplasty, valve replacements |
| 2 | Orthopedic Surgery | Knee & hip replacements, spine procedures |
| 3 | Cancer Treatment | Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy |
| 4 | Fertility & IVF | ICSI, embryo freezing, surrogacy support |
| 5 | Cosmetic & Reconstructive | Facelifts, rhinoplasty, dental implants |
Considerations for Planning a Medical Trip to India
- Research and select a hospital or clinic that matches your medical needs.
- Request a cost estimate before committing to travel.
- Apply for an e-medical visa well in advance of travel dates.
- Plan recovery time, including possible wellness or rehabilitation services.
- Keep all relevant documents, including medical records and travel paperwork, ready before departure.
Implications for Patients
The increase in medical tourist arrivals reflects greater investment in infrastructure, technology, and international patient services. For those seeking treatment, this means:
- A wider range of options across specialties
- Competitive pricing driven by strong demand and capacity
- Enhanced patient support services in major healthcare hubs
Summary
India's healthcare system is expanding its capacity to serve international patients, supported by government initiatives and growing global recognition. For individuals considering treatment abroad, 2025 presents a landscape with improved access, diverse options, and established quality standards.
Ready to start your medical journey to India?