Do you need a visa at all?
| You hold | Visa needed for treatment? |
|---|---|
| An Indian passport | No |
| An OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card | No. The OCI card works as a multiple-entry, lifelong visa (Consulate General of India) |
| A UK, US, Australian, Canadian or UAE passport (without OCI) | Yes: apply for the e-Medical visa |
| Another passport | Check the eligible-countries list on the official portal |
The e-Medical visa at a glance
| What the official portal says | |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Medical treatment, including treatment under Indian systems of medicine |
| Validity | One year (365 days) from the date of arrival |
| Entries | Multiple |
| When to apply | At least 4 days before arrival, within a 120-day window |
| Key document | A letter from the hospital or clinic in India, on its letterhead, with the date or tentative date of treatment |
| Companions | Up to two e-Medical Attendant visas per e-Medical visa |
| Where you can arrive | Designated international airports (Delhi is one) and seaports |
Step by step
- 1
Agree your plan with the clinic
Send your X-rays, have your consultation and agree the dates of treatment.
- 2
Get the clinic letter
Sterling issues a letter on its letterhead with your name and the planned treatment dates.
- 3
Apply online
On the official e-Visa portal, choose the e-Medical visa, fill in the form and upload the documents the portal asks for, including the clinic letter.
- 4
Pay the fee
The fee depends on your nationality and is shown on the portal.
- 5
Receive your approval
Approval is sent by email. Keep a printed copy with your passport.
- 6
Arrive in Delhi
Present your passport and approval at immigration at Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Travelling with someone? Each companion applies for an e-Medical Attendant visa linked to your e-Medical visa; up to two are allowed.
Timing your application
Because the visa is valid for a year with multiple entries, one visa can usually cover both trips of a two-stage implant treatment, if both fall within the year. Apply once your first treatment dates are fixed, and at least four days before you fly; applying a few weeks ahead leaves room for any queries.
Once you arrive
Sterling is in Vasant Vihar, about 12–13 km from Terminal 3: roughly 15 to 45 minutes by road depending on traffic, or about ₹550–750 by taxi (Rome2Rio). Tell us your flight and we will share directions and nearby places to stay.
Planning the rest of the trip? Read the complete guide for international patients.
Frequently asked questions
Which visa do I need for dental treatment in India?+
The e-Medical visa, unless you hold an Indian passport or an OCI card. It is applied for online on the Government of India's e-Visa portal.
How long is the e-Medical visa valid?+
According to the official portal, one year from the date of arrival, with multiple entries.
How early should I apply?+
At least 4 days before arrival and no more than 120 days before. Applying a few weeks ahead is sensible.
Can someone come with me?+
Yes. Up to two companions can apply for e-Medical Attendant visas linked to your e-Medical visa.
Does Sterling provide the letter for the visa?+
Yes. Once your treatment plan and dates are agreed, Sterling issues a letter on its letterhead for your application.
Do OCI card holders need a medical visa?+
No. The OCI card is a multiple-entry, lifelong visa for visiting India.
Sources
- Government of India: e-Visa (incl. e-Medical and e-Medical Attendant) (accessed 28 September 2026)
- Consulate General of India, San Francisco: General information on the OCI card (accessed 28 September 2026)
- Rome2Rio: IGI Airport Terminal 3 to Vasant Vihar (accessed 28 September 2026)
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Whether implants suit you, and what they will cost, depends on a clinical examination and 3D scan. Prices are indicative and are confirmed in writing before any treatment.