Oman consulate in India issues guidelines for citizens travelling

Muscat: Oman Consulate in Mumbai, India has issued a list of instructions and guidelines for citizens of Oman who wants to travel to India for medical treatment purpose, in order to avoid any violations and fines.

The consulate urged those traveling to India for treatment and those accompanying them to follow the instructions announced, and the need to obtain a medical visa from the office licensed by the Indian Embassy in Muscat. 

The Consulate General of Oman in India – Mumbai said: “Important instructions for citizens of the Sultanate of Oman coming to the Republic of India for treatment and those accompanying them:-

1. It is mandatory to obtain a medical visa for the patient and his/her companion through the office licensed by the Indian Embassy in Muscat, as it is the legal visa that allows its holder to receive treatment in India.

2. The medical visa can be extended by the Department of Immigration of India provided that there are reasons for continuing treatment from the approved hospitals.

3. The Indian tourist visa is not extendable under any circumstances, and it is necessary to leave before the expiry of its validity period in order to avoid travel bans and financial penalties.

4. It is preferable to communicate directly with accredited hospitals and specialised doctors through their websites or visit them directly without an intermediary. Hospitals and doctors must also be assured not to include any intermediary in their records, and send recent medical reports of the patient in English directly to the hospital for review.

5. Make sure to obtain an official letter and an invitation from the hospital stating its consent to receive the patient, an initial determination of the treatment plan, expected duration, and estimated costs, and to include that invitation for the procedures for obtaining a medical visa.

6. Beware of dealing with intermediaries such as medical coordination offices that are not licensed by the Ministry of Health, taxi owners, translators, medical treatment brokers, and others, in order to avoid those parties getting a financial commission ranging from 30 to 40% of the amount treatment bill.

7. Beware of people who promote hospitals, clinics, and medical clinics through social media and internet sites. 10. Do not transfer money to intermediaries and unknown persons.

9. Ensure that the prescription is carried upon departure, and check the expiration date of the medicines.

9. In emergency cases or deaths, only the escort must communicate directly with the consulate to take the necessary procedures.

10. The Consulate General in Mumbai wishes safety and recovery for all, stressing the importance and need to adhere to the above-mentioned guidelines, and constant communication and joint cooperation with it to ensure better and more effective services to citizens.

Consulate phone: +912222876037

Citizens Affairs Phone: +919152299992

Health Affairs Phone: +919820155552