India is rapidly solidifying its position as a global hub for Medical Value Travel (MVT), thanks in large part to the growing international recognition of its traditional healthcare systems under the AYUSH banner — Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy.
In a significant milestone, more than 1,600 Ayush Visas have been issued to foreign nationals seeking holistic wellness treatments in India. The move not only reflects the growing trust in India’s age-old healing traditions but also marks a new chapter in health tourism.
What is the Ayush Visa?
Launched in July 2023, the Ayush Visa is a specialized category created to allow foreign nationals to travel to India exclusively for treatment at AYUSH hospitals and wellness centers accredited by the government. This initiative is part of India’s broader strategy to integrate traditional medicine into mainstream global healthcare.
The visa has four sub-categories:
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AY-1 (Ayush Visa) for patients undergoing AYUSH treatments
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AY-2 (Ayush Attendant Visa) for accompanying persons
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e-Ayush Visa for streamlined online applications
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e-Ayush Attendant Visa for attendants via digital processing
Key Stats So Far
As of December 2024:
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123 regular Ayush Visas issued
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221 e-Ayush Visas granted
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17 e-Ayush Attendant Visas approved
With new figures indicating a sharp rise in 2025, the total number of Ayush Visa issuances has now crossed 1,600, signaling increased global interest and confidence in India’s traditional health systems.
Strengthening the Ecosystem
To further ease access for international wellness seekers, the Indian government launched the Advantage Healthcare India portal (www.healinindia.gov.in) — a digital one-stop destination providing treatment options, hospital listings, and application assistance for foreign patients.
India is also expanding its infrastructure:
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Over 755,000 registered AYUSH practitioners
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Nearly 900 undergraduate colleges and 250 postgraduate colleges
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More than 3,800 AYUSH hospitals across the country
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AYUSH Information Cells in 39 global locations
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Collaborative agreements with over 100 countries
Adding further momentum, the World Health Organization (WHO) established its Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in Jamnagar, Gujarat — a major endorsement of India’s traditional knowledge systems.
Global Platform for AYUSH: Mumbai Summit 2024
The inaugural Ayush Medical Value Travel Summit, held in Mumbai in September 2024, brought together policymakers, doctors, wellness entrepreneurs, and international delegates. The summit’s theme — “Global Synergy in Ayush: Transforming Health and Wellness through Medical Value Travel” — set the tone for a future where ancient healing meets modern infrastructure.
What’s Next?
India’s expanding role in global healthcare is not just about attracting patients — it’s about building a movement toward holistic, preventive, and sustainable wellness. As the Ayush Visa gains popularity and India’s healthcare diplomacy deepens, the country is poised to become the world’s wellness capital.
With the convergence of trust, tradition, and technology, India is not just offering treatment — it’s offering transformation.
For more information or to apply for an Ayush Visa, visit www.healinindia.gov.in