By Sandeep Chaudhary
Thailand Health Tourism for Nepalis — Best Hospitals & Visa Rules
Thailand has become one of Asia’s leading destinations for health and medical tourism, attracting thousands of patients every year from around the world, including Nepal. Nepali citizens increasingly prefer Thailand for advanced medical treatments, surgeries, and wellness care due to the combination of world-class hospitals, international specialists, modern technology, and affordable costs. The country offers a perfect balance of high-quality healthcare and tourism, allowing patients to receive top-class treatment while also enjoying a peaceful recovery environment in places like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
For Nepali patients, the most popular hospitals in Thailand include Bumrungrad International Hospital, Bangkok Hospital, Samitivej Hospital, Vejthani Hospital, and Yanhee International Hospital. These institutions are internationally accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) and are known for their high standards of medical care. Bumrungrad International Hospital, located in central Bangkok, is often considered the heart of Thailand’s medical tourism industry, providing treatment in over 30 specialties and offering translators, airport transfers, and personalized care for Nepali and South Asian patients. Bangkok Hospital is part of the BDMS Group, Thailand’s largest hospital network, offering specialist departments in cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. Samitivej Hospital is renowned for pediatric and family care, while Vejthani Hospital is known for orthopedic surgery and international referral services. Yanhee International Hospital, on the other hand, is especially popular among Nepalis for cosmetic surgery and dental care.
These hospitals maintain International Patient Centers (IPCs) to assist foreigners with treatment planning, appointment scheduling, accommodation, and visa coordination. Many of them have direct tie-ups with Nepali travel and visa assistance agencies, including Yatra For Fun Pvt. Ltd., which helps arrange hospital appointment letters, financial documents, and visa support to ensure a smooth journey from Nepal to Thailand.
To travel for medical purposes, Nepalis must apply for the Thailand Medical Tourist (MT) Visa or the Non-Immigrant “O” (Medical Treatment) Visa. This visa allows patients to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days initially, with the option to extend the stay based on medical needs. Applicants are required to submit a hospital invitation or treatment confirmation letter, medical reports from Nepal, six months’ bank statement as proof of financial stability, flight booking, and proof of accommodation in Thailand. The Royal Thai Embassy in Kathmanduprocesses these visa applications, and the normal processing time is 7 to 10 working days. The visa fee is THB 2,000 for a single entry and THB 5,000 for multiple entries, payable through a Manager’s Cheque issued from Global IME Bank in favor of “The Royal Thai Embassy, Kathmandu.”
If a patient’s treatment or recovery takes longer than expected, they can apply for a visa extension at the Thai Immigration Bureau, supported by a new hospital recommendation letter. The extension fee is THB 1,900, and most major hospitals assist their patients with this process through their visa support departments. Thailand is also planning to introduce a 1-year Medical Treatment Visa with multiple entry options for long-term care, which will allow eligible patients and families to stay for extended treatments such as organ transplants or cancer therapy.
The growing appeal of Thailand’s healthcare system among Nepalis also comes from its service-oriented culture and English-speaking staff. Many Thai hospitals employ Nepali interpreters or support personnel to guide patients throughout their treatment journey. Additionally, Yatra For Fun Pvt. Ltd. plays an important role by helping Nepali travelers secure the right visa type, collect verified hospital letters, prepare necessary documents, and coordinate with hospitals directly.
For professional assistance in applying for a Thailand Medical or Health Tourism Visa, contact Yatra For Fun Pvt. Ltd. at 9802348957 or 9708072951, or visit https://www.yatraforfun.com for a free consultation and hospital coordination service.
