Ayush Visa – Overview, Eligibility and Application Process

In a move that underscores India’s commitment to its traditional healing systems and wellness practices, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, has unveiled the introduction of a groundbreaking visa category known as the Ayush (AY) visa. This visa is tailored specifically for foreign nationals seeking treatment under Ayush systems and Indian systems of medicine. The announcement is anticipated to revolutionize medical tourism in India and establish the country as a global hub for traditional therapeutic care, wellness, and Yoga.

This momentous development has been encapsulated in a dedicated chapter, Chapter 11A – Ayush Visa, which has been seamlessly incorporated into the Visa Manual. This comprehensive manual now provides guidelines and provisions for foreign visitors seeking treatment under the diverse array of Indian medical systems. Consequently, various chapters of the Visa Manual, 2019, have been appropriately amended to accommodate this novel addition. Spearheading this initiative, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ayush and Ports, Shipping & Waterways, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The creation of the new Ayush visa category is a significant step toward boosting Medical Value Travel in India. This endeavor aligns with our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to globalize Indian traditional medicine.” He also commended the efforts of Shri Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister, for his instrumental role in bringing this unique visa category to fruition.

Launch of Ayush Visa

This groundbreaking visa category has its roots in Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s announcement at the Global Ayush Investment and Innovation Summit (GAIIS) held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, in April 2022. In line with India’s “Heal in India” initiative, the introduction of the Ayush Visa aims to position the country as a premier medical value travel destination. The Ministries of Ayush and Health & Family Welfare are collaboratively working on a comprehensive “Heal in India” portal, intended to showcase India’s diverse medical offerings to the global community.

Medical Value Travel has witnessed a remarkable upswing in India over recent years. As outlined in the report titled ‘The Global Wellness Economy: Looking beyond COVID’ by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the global wellness economy is projected to grow at an annual rate of 9.9%. Within this larger context, the Ayush-based healthcare and wellness economy is anticipated to burgeon into a staggering $70 billion industry by the year 2025.

The Ministry of Ayush has been at the forefront of initiatives to promote Ayush treatment systems both domestically and internationally. The ministry has recently entered into a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), an arm of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This strategic partnership aims to jointly promote Medical Value Travel, with a particular focus on Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine.

The introduction of the Ayush Visa is being hailed as a watershed moment for India’s traditional healing practices. By facilitating the seamless entry of foreign nationals seeking Ayush therapy, wellness, and traditional medical treatments, this new visa category is set to bolster India’s standing as a global leader in holistic healthcare. As the world turns increasingly towards holistic wellness, India is poised to take center stage, showcasing its rich heritage of healing and wellness practices to a global audience. The Ayush Visa is not just a travel document; it is a testament to India’s commitment to preserving and promoting its age-old wellness traditions on the world stage.

Eligibility Criteria for Ayush Visa

The eligibility criteria for an Ayush Visa, introduced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, are designed to facilitate foreign nationals seeking medical treatment under Ayush systems and Indian systems of medicine. Ayush refers to traditional Indian systems of medicine, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The specific eligibility criteria may vary slightly based on the issuing country and the Indian diplomatic mission where you apply, so it’s essential to refer to the official website of the respective Indian Embassy or Consulate for precise details. However, here are the general eligibility criteria for an Ayush Visa:

1. Medical Treatment: You must intend to undergo medical treatment under Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy) during your stay in India. This could include therapies, wellness programs, or specialized treatments.
2. Recommendation: You should possess medical documents, certificates, or recommendations from recognized practitioners or institutions in your home country that attest to your need for Ayush treatment. These documents should highlight your medical condition, the recommended treatment, and the expected benefits.
3. Invitation or Appointment: While not always mandatory, having an invitation letter or appointment confirmation from a recognized Ayush center or institution in India can strengthen your application. It shows that you have a specific treatment plan in place.
4. Valid Passport: Your passport should have a validity that extends beyond your intended stay in India. Many countries require passports to have at least six months of validity beyond the intended departure date from India.

Additional Eligibility criteria’s

1. Financial Capability: You should have the financial means to cover your travel expenses, medical treatment costs, and living expenses during your stay in India.
2. Intent to Return: You must demonstrate that you intend to return to your home country after your treatment is complete. This is to ensure that you do not overstay your visa or engage in any activities that go beyond the scope of your visa’s purpose.
3. No Previous Violations: You should not have a history of visa violations, overstays, or any criminal record that could affect your eligibility for a visa.
4. Health and Character: To establish your eligibility, you must undergo medical tests and provide character references demonstrating your good health and moral character.
5. Travel Itinerary: You might need to provide details of your travel itinerary, including your intended entry and exit dates from India, along with any internal travel plans within the country.

It’s important to note that meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee the issuance of an Ayush Visa. The final decision rests with the Indian diplomatic mission processing your application. To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official website of the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country and carefully follow the application guidelines provided.

Application Procedure for Ayush Visa

Obtaining an Ayush Visa involves a specific process that foreign nationals need to follow to receive authorization for medical travel related to Ayush systems and Indian systems of medicine. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get an Ayush Visa:

1: Eligibility Check and Preparation

Before applying for an Ayush Visa, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Government of India. The visa primarily serves individuals who are seeking medical treatment under Ayush systems, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Prepare the necessary documents, including:

1. Medical Documents: Obtain medical certificates and records from recognized Ayush practitioners or institutions in your home country. They should validate your need for Ayush treatment.
2. Invitation or Appointment: If you have identified a specific Ayush center or institution in India for your treatment. Then it’s beneficial to have an invitation letter or appointment confirmation from them.
3. Passport: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity beyond your intended stay in India.

2: Applying for the Ayush Visa

1. Online Application: Visit the official website of the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country. Navigate to the visa application section and choose the Ayush Visa category.
2. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the visa application form accurately. Provide all required details, including personal information, purpose of travel, medical details, and travel itinerary.
3. Upload Documents: Scan and upload the necessary documents. Including your medical certificates, passport-sized photographs, and any invitation letters or appointment confirmations.
4. Payment: Pay the prescribed visa fee as specified on the website. The fee might vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

3: Interview (If Required)

In certain situations, the Indian Embassy or Consulate may necessitate your attendance at an interview. They conduct this interview to authenticate your application and to ascertain the genuineness of your intent.

4: Visa Processing

1. Wait for Processing: Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll need to wait for the authorities to process it. The processing time can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.
2. Application Status: You can track the status of your visa application online through the embassy or consulate’s website. Using the unique application reference number provided during the application submission.

5: Visa Approval and Collection

1. Receive Approval: Upon approval of your Ayush Visa application, you’ll receive a notification through email or SMS. This notification will include details about the visa validity, duration, and any specific conditions.
2. Collect Visa: Visit the Indian Embassy or Consulate with your passport and any required documentation to collect your visa. Some countries also offer postal services for visa delivery.

6: Travel to India

With your Ayush Visa in hand, you can now travel to India for your intended medical treatment under Ayush systems. Ensure that you carry all the necessary documents, including your visa, passport, medical records, and any invitation letters.

It’s important to note that visa processes and requirements can change over time. So always refer to the official website of the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Aim of Ayush Visa

The aim of the Ayush Visa is to facilitate and promote medical travel for foreign nationals seeking treatment in india. Specially under the various Ayush systems and Indian systems of medicine. The introduction of this specialized visa category aligns with the broader goals of the Indian government to:

1. Promote Traditional Healing Systems: India has designed the Ayush Visa to showcase its rich heritage of traditional healing practices. It includes Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. It aims to provide global exposure to these age-old systems of medicine and wellness.
2. Boost Medical Tourism: The Ayush Visa is a strategic step to attract individuals seeking alternative and holistic healthcare solutions. By providing an organized and streamlined process for medical travel. India aims to position itself as a preferred destination for medical value travel in the field of Ayush.
3. Enhance Global Awareness: The visa category aims to increase global awareness of Ayush systems and their potential benefits. By welcoming international patients and practitioners, India seeks to establish itself as a hub for Ayush education, research, and practice.
4. Support Healthcare and Wellness Businesses: The introduction of the Ayush Visa is expected to contribute to healthcare’s growth. Along with allied wellness-related industries. Including Ayurvedic centers, yoga retreats, wellness spas, and holistic therapy providers. This, in turn, can stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities in these sectors.

Few other aims of Ayush Visa

1. Strengthen International Collaborations: The Ayush Visa creates opportunities for collaboration between Indian and international practitioners. Also researchers and institutions in the field of traditional medicine. This exchange of knowledge and expertise can lead to advancements in treatment modalities and research.
2. Showcase India’s Holistic Healthcare: India’s traditional systems of medicine emphasize holistic well-being and preventive care. The Ayush Visa aims to showcase these principles and practices to a global audience. Fostering an understanding of the holistic approach to health.
3. Fulfill Global Demand: The rising interest in alternative healthcare is driving global demand for Ayush treatments. The Ayush Visa addresses this demand by providing a dedicated pathway for individuals seeking these treatments in India.
4. Align with “Heal in India” Initiative: The Ayush Visa is a key component of India’s “Heal in India” campaign. It aims to promote the country as a top medical tourism destination. This initiative strives to establish India as a hub for various medical treatments and wellness services.

To summarize, the Ayush Visa primarily aims to enhance global access to India’s traditional healing systems. It aims to establish the country as a global hub for holistic healthcare, encompassing Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.