India welcomed 131,856 foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) for medical treatment between January and April 2025, representing about 4.1% of all international visitors during this period, according to new data shared by Union Tourism and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in the Rajya Sabha.
Over the past five years, Bangladesh has remained the single largest source of medical tourists, sending 482,336 patients in 2024. It was followed by Iraq (32,008), Somalia (11,717), Oman (10,431), and Uzbekistan (8,921). Overall, 644,387 foreign patients travelled to India for medical care in 2024, a sharp increase from 182,945 in 2020, Bureau of Immigration figures show.
While medical tourism is largely driven by state governments and Union Territories, the Centre supports these efforts through targeted schemes and national initiatives like the ‘Heal in India’ programme. India has also expanded e-medical visa and e-medical attendant visa facilities to citizens of 171 countries.
States are increasingly developing their own strategies. In Gujarat, authorities are promoting medical tourism by registering wellness retreats on the Tourism Department portal, supporting participation in wellness events, organising familiarisation tours, and amplifying wellness centres through digital campaigns.
The state is also investing in global health diplomacy, showcasing its hospital infrastructure abroad, running training programmes for paramedical staff, and participating in international health and wellness exhibitions.
Key statistics on Indian medical tourism
- 131,856 medical FTAs recorded Jan–Apr 2025 (4.1% of total arrivals).
- Foreign medical tourists increased from 182,945 (2020) to 644,387 (2024).
- 660,000 foreign patients visited India in 2023 post-COVID recovery.
- Industry valued at US $7.69 billion in 2024.
