Introduction
India is growing as a destination for Medical Value Travel (MVT) by combining new healthcare infrastructure with its established systems of traditional cure and wellness. For worldwide patients curious about Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha or Homoeopathy, the country’s dedicated AYUSH Visa provides a particular route for travelling to India for healthcare treatment.
In 2026, the Indian administration continues to evolve the medical and wellness tourism ecosystem through pushes focused on character, digital facilitation, worldwide cooperation, and patient support. At ATMS, or Asian Travel and Medical Services, our International patient services in India help international patients navigate the practical and logistical aspects of accessing healthcare in India.
What Is Medical Value Travel?
Medical Value Travel refers to travelling to another country to obtain healthcare, treatment, rehabilitation, or wellness services. India has developed a broad MVT ecosystem that includes advanced hospital-based treatment as well as traditional and holistic healthcare services.
According to the Government of India, its Medical Value Travel strategy increasingly brings together modern medical infrastructure and AYUSH systems. Government initiatives include the development of regional medical hubs, digital patient services, and measures intended to improve the international patient journey.
Ayush Visa
The Government of India introduced a dedicated AYUSH Visa on 27 July 2023 for foreign nationals travelling to India for treatment under recognised AYUSH systems. The visa is devised specifically for patients pursuing eligible therapeutic care and wellbeing treatment in certified or appropriately accredited facilities.
Current government information identifies the M-3 AYUSH Visa and the corresponding M-4 AYUSH Attendant Visa as categories for eligible international patients and attendants.
Treatments Come Under AYUSH
AYUSH represents several Indian systems of medicine:
- Ayurveda
- Yoga and Naturopathy
- Unani
- Siddha
- Homoeopathy
International patients may travel to India for eligible therapeutic care, wellness programmes, and other services provided through appropriate facilities.
However, patients should carefully verify the credentials and registration of a healthcare or wellness facility before making travel arrangements. Government information states that Ayush Visa eligibility is linked to treatment at appropriate accredited or registered hospitals and wellness centres. You can hire ATMS for emergency healthcare for tourists in India.
What International Patients Should Know About the Ayush Visa in 2026
The visa is an important component of India’s efforts to facilitate international medical and wellness travel. Government information published in December 2025 states that the M-3 Ayush Visa may initially be valid for up to one year or the period of treatment, with a maximum of three entries during one year, subject to applicable conditions. Extensions may be possible in qualifying circumstances.
Electronic M-3 visas can be issued for worthy travellers for a shorter initial period, with extensions considered on a case-by-case basis under the applicable rules. Visa rules can change, and individual eligibility depends on the traveller’s circumstances. We therefore encourage victims to verify new requirements with the relevant Indian experts before travelling.
Prepare Before Medical Travel
Before travelling, international patients should consider preparing:
- Passport and visa documentation
- Medical history and previous treatment records
- Diagnostic reports and test results
- Current medication information
- Doctor’s referral or treatment recommendations where applicable
- Details of the receiving healthcare facility
- Emergency contact information
- Accommodation arrangements
- Local transportation arrangements
- Information about planned treatment and expected stay
At ATMS, we can help coordinate the practical aspects of an international patient’s journey so that important arrangements are considered before arrival. We also provide ambulance service for foreigners in India if needed.
Why Choose an Appropriate Healthcare Facility
The Government of India has also highlighted efforts to improve quality standards within the medical value travel ecosystem. The Ayush Quality Mark, launched in 2025, is one initiative intended to support harmonisation of quality standards with international markets.
- Making the Journey More Convenient
A government backgrounder published in May 2026 described plans to upgrade the Medical Value Travel portal toward an end-to-end service that can help patients explore, plan and book services and access post-operative care. It also outlined plans for Medical Value Travel concierge and lounge facilities at important airports.
These developments reflect the growing emphasis on the overall patient experience, from the initial decision to seek treatment in India through arrival, treatment and post-treatment support.
India’s Growing Focus on AYUSH-Based Medical Travel
India’s efforts to expand AYUSH-based Medical Value Travel have continued through government programmes and international engagement. For international patients, these developments make it particularly important to distinguish between general wellness offerings and structured healthcare services delivered through appropriate providers.
Contact Us
In 2026, government initiatives are continuing to focus on quality standards, digital facilitation, international cooperation, and improving the overall medical travel experience. For anyone considering India for AYUSH-based treatment, careful planning, appropriate provider verification, and up-to-date visa information are essential steps before travelling.
At ATMS (Asian Travel and Medical Services), we support international patients by helping coordinate the practical aspects of their healthcare journey in India. From pre-travel planning and healthcare coordination to local arrangements and post-treatment travel planning, we work to make the process more organised for patients and their families. You can also contact us if you need urgent care for tourists in India.
