Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are increasingly turning to India for world-class healthcare at a fraction of global costs, according to a recent report by Policybazaar, India’s leading online insurance platform. With a remarkable 150% year-on-year growth in NRI customers in FY 2024-25, India is solidifying its position as a global medical tourism hub. Here’s why NRIs from the Gulf, USA, Canada, UK, and Europe are choosing India for their healthcare needs and how they’re securing affordable health insurance to protect themselves and their families.
Unmatched Cost Savings on Medical Treatments
India’s healthcare system offers 60–90% savings on medical procedures compared to Western countries and the Gulf. For instance:
- Heart Bypass Surgery: Costs $5,000–8,000 in India, versus $70,000–150,000 in the USA.
- Knee Replacement: Priced at $4,000–6,000 in India, compared to $30,000–50,000 in the UK.
- Liver Transplant: Available for $25,000–35,000 in India, against $300,000–500,000 in the USA.
The data reveals that NRI claims for elective procedures typically range from $2,000 to $15,000, while complex surgeries may reach $20,000–$40,000 still significantly lower than international benchmarks. This cost advantage, coupled with no waiting periods and access to advanced facilities like Apollo, AIIMS, and Fortis, makes India a top choice for NRIs seeking quality care.
Affordable Health Insurance for NRIs
Health insurance premiums in India are a game-changer for NRIs. The average annual premium per person ranges from $120–$300, compared to $8,000+ in the USA and $4,000–$5,000 in GCC countries. This affordability has driven a 60% surge in online searches for “Health insurance India for NRIs” and a 45% increase in searches for “Medical treatment for overseas citizens in India,” per Google Trends.
Policybazaar’s NRI Care Program further sweetens the deal, offering tailored solutions for NRIs, especially for elderly parents in India. Key features include:
- 24/7 Emergency Helpline: Rapid response for urgent medical needs.
- Hospitalization Coordination: Concierge-like support for admissions and discharge.
- Doctor-on-Call & OPD Coverage: Access to medical guidance and minor treatments without hospital visits.
- Up to 40% Premium Discounts: Available for NRIs with no-claim status, subject to valid documentation like passports or proof of international residence.
- 18% GST Refund: For premiums paid via NRE accounts, with proper KYC.
Approximately 30% of NRIs buy health insurance for themselves during India visits or in preparation for relocation, while 70% secure plans for family members (parents, spouses, children) residing in India. The NRI health insurance market has seen explosive growth: 70% in FY 2022-23, 140% in FY 2023-24, and an estimated 130% in FY 2024-25.
South India Leads, Tier-3 Cities Rise
South Indian cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Ernakulam, and Thiruvananthapuram are the top destinations for NRI healthcare, thanks to their world-class hospitals and English-speaking staff. Emerging hubs like Coimbatore, Thrissur, Kollam, and Kozhikode are also gaining traction. Notably, 46% of NRI claims originate from Tier-3 cities, reflecting India’s expanding healthcare infrastructure. Cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune, and Thane are also popular among NRI patients.
Young NRIs and Women Drive the Trend
The report highlights a 148% increase in NRI customers under 35 and a 125% surge in women NRI customers, signaling growing trust in India’s healthcare system among younger generations and female NRIs. This demographic shift underscores India’s appeal as a culturally familiar and cost-effective healthcare destination.
Why India Stands Out for NRIs
Beyond affordability, India offers:
- Cultural Comfort: Familiar language, food, and traditions make recovery easier for NRIs.
- Advanced Infrastructure: Cutting-edge technology and skilled doctors rival global standards.
- Affordable Medicines: Generic drugs significantly reduce treatment costs.
- Robust Insurance Ecosystem: Policybazaar’s platform, with over 80.5 million registered users and 49.3 million policies issued, simplifies access to tailored health plans.
How NRIs Can Get Started
For NRIs looking to leverage India’s healthcare and insurance benefits, Policybazaar offers a seamless online platform to compare plans from over 50 insurance partners. The NRI Care Program ensures comprehensive support, especially for elderly parents, with fast-track claims processing within 30 minutes during emergencies. Visit www.policybazaar.com for more details.
India’s Healthcare Future for NRIs
India’s rise as a medical tourism hub is backed by government initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and a growing network of private hospitals. However, challenges like high out-of-pocket expenses for non-insured patients highlight the importance of securing health insurance. With 50% of NRI customers from the Gulf, 23% from Europe, and 13% from North America, the trend is clear: India is the go-to destination for NRIs seeking high-quality, affordable healthcare in 2025.
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Sources: Policybazaar Report, July 2025; Google Trends
