Ghanaian citizens seeking specialized medical care in India must apply for a medical visa before their travel.
This visa allows patients to receive treatment at reputed Indian hospitals that are recognized by the Government of India. In most cases, the patient may be accompanied by up to two close family members on a separate medical attendant visa.
India is a preferred destination for advanced medical treatments such as cardiac surgery, neurology, organ transplants, oncology, joint replacements, fertility procedures, and cosmetic surgery due to its skilled doctors and affordable care.
What is a Medical Visa?
A medical visa is a special type of visa issued to individuals who need to travel abroad for medical treatment. These visas are typically granted for short durations based on the treatment plan and can be extended if required.
Most countries, including India, also allow family members to accompany the patient under a Medical Attendant Visa, usually limited to two people.
The medical visa ensures that the patient receives uninterrupted care during their stay in the host country.
How to Apply for a Medical Visa to India
Step 1: Online Application
Ghana is eligible for India’s electronic visa system. There are two ways to apply:
- e-Visa: Patients can apply for a 6-month medical e-visa through the official Indian Visa Online portal.
- Embassy Submission: For longer-duration treatments or additional support, patients may submit a paper application directly at the Indian High Commission in Ghana.
Applicants need to complete the online form and prepare all required documents for submission.
Step 2: Submit Documents at the Embassy
After completing the application, submit it in person, along with supporting documents to:
Indian High Commission in Ghana
Address: No.9 Ridge Road, Roman Ridge, Accra, Ghana
Phone: +233307020905
Email: cons.accra@mea.gov.in
Website: www.hcipaccra.gov.in
Eligibility Criteria for Ghanaian Citizens
Ghanaian passport holders may apply for a medical visa if:
- The primary reason for travel is to undergo treatment in India.
- The selected Indian hospital is government-approved and registered.
- The patient is accompanied by immediate family members (maximum of two), who must apply separately for attendant visas.
- Valid Yellow Fever and Polio vaccination certificates are available.
Eligible conditions for treatment include, but are not limited to:
- Cardiac diseases and surgery
- Neurological treatments and surgeries
- Organ transplants (kidney, liver, etc.)
- Cancer therapy
- Orthopedic surgeries (hip/knee replacements)
- Eye and ENT-related conditions
- Reconstructive and cosmetic surgery
Required Documents for Medical Visa Application
- A completed and signed visa application form
- Ghanaian passport valid for at least 6 months, with two blank pages
- Two recent passport-size photos with a white background
- A photocopy of the passport’s data page
- Proof of residence in Ghana (utility bill, voter ID, etc.)
- Yellow Fever and Oral Polio Vaccination Certificates
- Referral letter from a Ghanaian hospital/doctor
- Invitation letter from the Indian hospital, with treatment details
- Medical history and diagnostic test results
- Proof of financial ability (bank statement or salary slip)
- Confirmed return air tickets
- Attendant’s passport and proof of relationship, if applicable
For minors traveling for treatment:
- Birth certificate
- Parents’ passports
- Notarized parental consent for travel and visa
Indian e-Visa Application Instructions
- Go to https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Select “Regular/Paper Visa Application.”
- Fill out all three pages with personal and medical details
- Upload a recent photo or attach it to the printed form
- Schedule an appointment at the Indian High Commission in Accra
- Print and submit the form with documents during working hours
Visa Processing Fees for Ghanaian Citizens
- 6-month medical e-visa: USD 92 / GHS equivalent
- 1-year or urgent visa: USD 132 / GHS equivalent
(Includes a USD 2 ICFW processing fee)
Payments can be made by card or cash at the embassy. Cheques are not accepted.
Visa Processing Time
- Standard processing: 2 to 3 working days (excluding the day of submission)
- Status can be checked online via the Indian Visa portal
After Arrival in India: FRRO Registration
Ghanaian patients over 12 years of age must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival in India.
Documents Required:
- Original passport and visa
- Copy of passport with Indian visa and entry stamp
- 4 passport-sized photos
- Proof of accommodation in India
- Letter from the treating hospital detailing diagnosis and duration
- Updated medical reports or certificates
- Attested hospital certificate with photo (if patient is already admitted)
Indian Medical Visa Validity & Extension
Medical visas are typically issued for up to 1 year with triple entry. The duration starts from the date of issue. If the patient needs extended care, an application for extension can be submitted at the local FRRO office in India.
Documents for Extension:
- Visa extension application form
- Copy and original passport
- Latest medical records
- Letter from hospital confirming ongoing treatment
- Residential proof in India
- A passport-size photograph attested by the hospital
Support Services for Ghanaian Patients
Traveling abroad for treatment can be challenging, especially when dealing with documents, logistics, and language.
Cikista Health provides comprehensive support to ensure a stress-free experience for patients from Ghana seeking treatment in India.
Services Offered:
- Free medical treatment opinion and hospital comparison
- Assistance with visa invitation letters from Indian hospitals
- Appointment scheduling with India’s top doctors
- Flight booking, hotel arrangements, and travel planning
- Airport pickup and reliable local transport
- 24/7 English-speaking support staff
- Help with FRRO registration and visa extension services
Contact Cikista
Email: hello@cikista.com
WhatsApp: +91 9063282679
Website: cikista.com
Final Checklist for Ghanaian Patients
Before flying to India, ensure the following documents are ready:
- Completed Indian visa application form
- Valid Ghanaian passport and a photocopy
- Two passport-size photographs
- Yellow Fever and Polio Vaccination Certificates
- Referral letter from a Ghanaian doctor
- Invitation letter from the Indian hospital
- Recent medical reports and lab test results
- Proof of funds – bank statement or salary certificate
- Confirmed return flight tickets
