India Reduces Medical Visa Issuances, Implications for Bangladesh and China
India has drastically reduced medical visa issuances from 5,000-7,000 per day to fewer than 1,000 since August 2025. This change may snub Bangladesh and enhance opportunities for Chinese medical tourism. The shift reflects evolving geopolitical dynamics in South Asia regarding healthcare access.
As of March 2025, India has significantly reduced the issuance of medical visas, granting fewer than 1,000 each working day since August. Previously, the country granted between 5,000 and 7,000 medical visas daily, according to anonymous sources familiar with the situation. This substantial decline in medical visa allocations comes as a potential diplomatic snub to Bangladesh, allowing for increased opportunities for Chinese medical tourists and patients.
The reduction in medical visas indicates a shift in India’s immigration policy regarding healthcare access, particularly for patients from neighboring Bangladesh, which has traditionally relied on India for advanced medical treatment. The abrupt change has prompted questions about the implications for Bangladesh-India relations, particularly in the context of healthcare cooperation.
The decision to limit medical visa access may enhance China’s position as an alternative destination for medical treatment, as Indian healthcare services have historically been regarded as a preferred choice for many Bangladeshi nationals. The evolving situation demonstrates a complex interplay of healthcare needs and geopolitical considerations in South Asia.
In summary, India’s drastic reduction in medical visa approvals signals a shift in policy that may impact diplomatic relations with Bangladesh while creating opportunities for China in the medical tourism sector. This notable change raises questions about the future of healthcare cooperation between India and its neighbors.
Original Source: www.moneycontrol.com
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