India’s healthcare sector is experiencing an unprecedented boom as NRI medical tourism in India continues its upward trajectory. Driven by massive cost advantages, cultural familiarity, and expanding insurance options, more Non-Resident Indians are choosing to return home for their medical needs.
A recent report by PolicyBazaar reveals a striking 150% year-on-year growth in the number of NRIs purchasing health insurance in India — a strong indicator of rising trust and long-term commitment to Indian healthcare services.
NRI Medical Tourism: The Power of Cost – Why NRIs are Flying Home for Surgeries
The financial benefits of undergoing treatment in India are staggering. For example:
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Heart bypass surgery in the US can cost between $70,000–$150,000, while in India, it’s available for just $5,000–$8,000.
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Knee replacements in India cost $4,000–$6,000, compared to $30,000–$50,000 in Western nations.
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A liver transplant in the US can cost up to $500,000, whereas in India, it ranges from $25,000–$35,000.
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Kidney transplants cost between $7,000–$12,000 in India versus $200,000–$300,000 abroad.
These massive savings make NRI medical tourism in India not just appealing—but economically rational.
PolicyBazaar’s data shows that typical NRI insurance claims in India range from $2,000 to $15,000, with the highest going up to $40,000 for complex procedures—still dramatically lower than international costs.
Affordable Health Insurance Premiums Fuel the Shift
The affordability of Indian insurance policies is another factor accelerating this trend. In the US, the average annual health premium exceeds $8,000 per individual. In stark contrast, comprehensive policies in India are available for between $120–$300 annually. In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, it’s still higher at $4,000–$5,000.
Search trends reflect this growing interest. PolicyBazaar notes a 60% rise in Google searches for “Health insurance India for NRIs” and a 45% increase in searches for “Medical treatment for overseas citizens in India.”
A significant spike in health insurance adoption was also seen among:
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NRI women (125% increase)
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NRIs under the age of 35 (148% increase)
This shift highlights a younger and more health-conscious diaspora looking to safeguard their well-being affordably.
NRI Medical Tourism: Tier-3 Cities Gain NRI Trust
Interestingly, India’s smaller cities are now at the forefront of this revolution. Tier-3 cities account for 46% of all NRI health claims, followed by Tier-2 cities at 33%, and metros at 21%.
Often, policies are purchased for elderly parents residing outside urban hubs—signaling growing faith in the quality of medical care in India’s hinterlands.
Share of NRI claims by city tier:
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Tier 3: 46%
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Tier 2: 33%
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Tier 1: 21%
What Ails the NRIs: Top Hospitalization Causes
PolicyBazaar’s report identifies the following as the most common health concerns leading to hospitalization among NRIs:
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Infectious diseases – 18%
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Respiratory conditions – 11%
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Cancer – 9%
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Heart conditions – 9%
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Gastrointestinal issues – 7%
Musculoskeletal, neurological, and eye disorders also feature prominently.
South India Emerges as the Medical Tourism Capital
Southern cities are leading the charge when it comes to preferred destinations for NRI medical tourism in India:
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Tier-1 Cities: Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata
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Tier-2 Cities: Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Pune, Thane, Coimbatore
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Tier-3 Cities: Thrissur, Kollam, Kozhikode
These cities offer advanced medical infrastructure, expert care, and a warm, culturally attuned patient experience.
Insurers Now Provide On-Ground NRI Support
Recognizing the logistical challenges NRIs face, Indian insurers now offer on-ground services—especially to support elderly parents. These include:
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Travel assistance
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Hospital admission and discharge coordination
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Post-treatment follow-ups
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Local language support and English-speaking medical staff
This hands-on approach reduces friction and reassures families across the globe.
Affordable Indian Medicines: Another Game-Changer
The low cost of medicines in India further enhances its medical appeal. Consider this:
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Insulin vials, costing $100–$300 in the US, are available in India for $1–$5.
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Imatinib, a key cancer drug priced at over $10,000/month in the US, costs just $100–$500 in India.
Such savings reinforce the viability of receiving long-term care within India.
A $13 Billion Industry in the Making
Backed by the Indian government’s Heal In India initiative, the medical tourism sector is expected to grow into a $13 billion industry by 2026. The rising tide of NRI medical tourism in India—fueled by affordability, empathy, and efficiency—is set to define the future of global healthcare access.
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