Why Bangladeshis Prefer India for Medical Treatment: Top Reasons and Facilities

In recent years, India has emerged as one of the most preferred destinations for medical treatment, particularly for patients from neighboring countries like Bangladesh. The rise in the number of Bangladeshi citizens seeking healthcare in India has been significant—and for good reason. From world-class medical facilities to cost-effective treatment options, India offers a compelling package for medical tourists.

In this article, we explore the top reasons why Bangladeshis choose India for healthcare and provide detailed information on Indian medical visas, including requirements, documents, and associated costs.

1. High-Quality Healthcare at Affordable Prices

India is globally recognized for its advanced medical infrastructure, experienced doctors, and cutting-edge technology. Despite the high standards, the cost of cancer treatment in India is significantly lower than in many Western countries and still more affordable than some private healthcare options in Bangladesh.

For example, cancer treatment in India is among the most sought-after services by Bangladeshi patients. Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical oncology are performed using the latest technologies, often at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries.

▸ Cost of Cancer Treatment for Bangladeshi Patients

While the exact cost varies depending on the hospital and the treatment required, the cost of cancer treatment for Bangladeshi patients in India can start as low as $2,000 USD and go up to $10,000 USD or more for complex procedures like bone marrow transplants. This cost is still far less compared to Western nations offering similar facilities.

2. Top Hospitals with International Standards

India is home to many top cancer hospitals and specialty institutions that attract medical tourists globally. Some of the top cancer hospitals in India include:

• Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai

• Apollo Cancer Institute, Chennai

• AIIMS, New Delhi

• Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram

• Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi

These hospitals offer multi-disciplinary cancer care with a focus on advanced diagnostics, targeted therapies, and personalized treatment plans.

3. Easy Access to Indian Medical Visa for Bangladeshis

To facilitate smooth travel for treatment, the Indian government has made the Indian Medical Visa from Bangladesh process relatively straightforward. Bangladeshis can apply online or through authorized Indian Visa Application Centers (IVACs) located across Bangladesh.

▸ Indian Medical Visa Requirements for Bangladeshi Citizens

To obtain a medical visa for India from Bangladesh, the following requirements must be met:

• A confirmed appointment or recommendation letter from a recognized Indian hospital

• Passport with a minimum validity of six months

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Completed online visa application form (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in)

• Proof of residential address in Bangladesh

• Medical documents/diagnosis reports from Bangladeshi doctors

• Bank statements or evidence of financial ability to cover treatment costs

These are the standard Indian medical visa requirements for Bangladeshi applicants, and ensuring accurate documentation helps speed up the approval process.

4. Quick Processing and Reasonable Visa Fees

One of the biggest advantages is the relatively quick processing time of the Indian medical visa. It typically takes 3–5 business days to process, and even faster in emergency cases.

▸ Indian Medical Visa Fee for Bangladeshi Citizens

The Indian medical visa fee for Bangladeshi nationals varies depending on duration and number of entries. Generally, the fees are:

• Short-term medical visa (up to 6 months): Around BDT 2,000–3,500

• Longer-term visa (up to 1 year with multiple entries): May range from BDT 4,000–5,500

Additionally, a visa service fee may apply depending on the Indian Visa Application Center handling the application.

5. Option for Medical Attendant Visa

India also provides Medical Attendant Visas to family members or caregivers accompanying patients. A maximum of two attendants are allowed, and their visas are generally granted along with the main applicant's Indian medical visa.

6. Language and Cultural Familiarity

For Bangladeshi patients, one of the most comforting aspects of traveling to India is the cultural closeness and language familiarity. Bengali is widely spoken in many Indian states like West Bengal, which makes communication with healthcare staff easier. Moreover, the availability of Bangladeshi food and similar social customs make patients feel more at home during treatment and recovery.

7. Trusted and Transparent Healthcare System

Indian hospitals are known for transparency in cost and procedures. Most leading hospitals provide treatment plans with detailed breakdowns, helping patients and their families make informed decisions. From diagnosis to discharge, patients are guided by a team of coordinators and interpreters, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

8. Wide Range of Specialties Beyond Cancer

In addition to cancer treatment in India, Bangladeshi patients also seek treatment for:

• Cardiac surgeries (e.g., bypass, valve replacement)

• Kidney transplants and dialysis

• Orthopedic surgeries

• Neurology and spine treatments

• Infertility and IVF services

• Plastic and cosmetic surgery

The availability of comprehensive medical services under one roof is a major reason why India continues to be the top destination for health tourism from Bangladesh.

Final Thoughts

India’s healthcare ecosystem offers a powerful combination of affordability, world-class treatment, ease of access, and cultural comfort. With the simplified Indian medical visa from Bangladesh, more and more patients are finding it convenient to travel for life-saving or life-enhancing treatments.

Whether it’s for cancer treatment, cardiac care, or orthopedic surgery, India’s advanced medical system is well-equipped to handle the needs of Bangladeshi patients with care and compassion.