NRIs Driving India’s Medical Tourism Boom | PolicyBazaar Report 2025
A PolicyBazaar report shows a 150% surge in NRI health insurance adoption, fueling India’s medical tourism growth. Discover why NRIs choose India for affordable care, insurance, and cultural comfort.
India’s medical tourism industry is witnessing a powerful push from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). According to a recent PolicyBazaar report, health insurance adoption among NRIs has risen by 150% year-on-year in FY 2024–25, reflecting growing trust in India’s healthcare ecosystem. This surge, coupled with the affordability of surgeries and medicines, is fueling India’s medical tourism sector—projected to touch $13 billion by 2026.
Why NRIs Are Returning to India for Care
Pocket-Friendly Surgeries
Elective procedures: Average claim amount ranges between $2,000 and $15,000. Complex surgeries: Claims range from $20,000 to $40,000. Compared to the $70,000+ price tags abroad, these numbers represent massive savings.
Cheaper Medication
India’s wide availability of affordable generic drugs makes treatment for chronic conditions—like diabetes, oncology, or heart disease—more cost-effective and sustainable. These medicines are also covered under most health insurance policies.
Affordable Premiums
With annual premiums averaging $120–$300 per person, Indian health insurance is significantly cheaper than: $8,000+ in the US, $4,000–$5,000 in the GCC. This affordability has made insurance-backed medical travel a practical choice for NRIs.
Cultural Comfort & Family Support
Beyond affordability, India offers something no overseas system can match—cultural familiarity. NRIs benefit from: Family support during recovery, English-speaking doctors and staff, Hospitals offering end-to-end treatment packages (visa, travel, post-op care). This emotional reassurance is becoming a key decision factor.
Demographics Fueling Growth
Women NRIs
Health insurance purchases grew 125%.
Young NRIs (<35 years)
Adoption surged 148%. This signals a generational shift, where younger NRIs are insuring themselves, not just elderly parents.
Tier-3 Cities Rising
Growing Trust
Nearly 46% of NRI claims are now being made in Tier-3 cities like Thrissur, Kozhikode, Kollam, and Kottayam.
Quality Infrastructure
Smaller cities are increasingly trusted for: Quality hospital infrastructure.
Support and Costs
On-ground support for elderly family care, Lower costs compared to Tier-1 metros.
Digital Trends Point to Growing NRI Interest
Health Insurance Searches
“Health insurance India for NRIs” → up 60% in 2024 vs 2023.
Medical Treatment Searches
“Medical treatment for overseas citizens in India” → up 45% in the last 18 months.
NRI Healthcare Journey with The Medical India
| Step | How the Initiative Helps | How The Medical India Supports |
|---|---|---|
| Exploration | Access to hospital listings and treatment packages via government portals. | Curated hospital recommendations, cost comparisons, and insurance guidance. |
| Pre-Arrival | Simplified medical visa processes and airport support. | Visa assistance, travel planning, and interpreter coordination. |
| Treatment | Accredited hospitals with affordable, insurance-backed care. | Partnerships with trusted hospitals for seamless treatment coordination. |
| Post-Care | Digital health records for continuity of care. | Telemedicine follow-ups and ongoing patient support. |
What This Means for India’s Healthcare Future
With 2.1 million medical travelers in 2024 and NRIs making up a large share, the medical value travel (MVT) sector is set for exponential growth. Combining: Affordable costs, Insurance-backed care, Expanding Tier-2/Tier-3 healthcare hubs, Cultural reassurance …India is now positioned as both an economic and emotional healthcare destination.
Planning Your Healthcare Journey in India?
Whether you're an NRI exploring surgery options, arranging care for parents, or simply curious about India’s affordable treatments, now is the right time to take action. Check out our India Medical Visa 2025 – Step-by-Step Guide for everything you need to know about traveling for treatment. Learn how the Heal in India initiative connects you with accredited hospitals, government-backed support, and seamless patient care. At The Medical India, we combine affordability with trust — guiding you from insurance and visas to hospital coordination and recovery.