The Indian Embassy in Ethiopia has suspended the issuance of medical visas due to a rise in applicants submitting fake documents. This troubling trend has been linked to individuals who, after receiving treatment in India, subsequently travel to other countries instead of returning to Ethiopia.
While the embassy has not provided detailed information regarding the suspension, sources indicate that there are plans to temporarily resume visa services that were recently halted. Previously, visa applicants could communicate directly with the embassy; however, a legally established agency in Bole sub-city, which facilitated these interactions, has been closed by local authorities for reasons that remain unclear.
“There are a number of agencies that have been set up illegally for the purpose of helping in issuing visas,” stated an insider. “However, only one agency is legally recognized by the embassy, located around Bole Michael, and it has been shut down by woreda authorities.”
Medical visas allow recipients to enter India for treatment and are often sought by patients from around the world who require specialized care not available in their home countries. These visas typically permit short stays that cover the duration of treatment. However, there have been instances where Ethiopian patients have failed to pay for their medical treatments after beginning care or have overstayed their visas.
While various countries issue multilateral visas and travel permits for both medical and non-medical visits, such as tourism, India has traditionally provided permits specifically for patients entering the country legally. The current suspension of medical visa issuance raises concerns about access to essential healthcare services for those in need and highlights the challenges faced by legitimate applicants due to fraudulent activities.
As discussions continue regarding the future of medical visa issuance, stakeholders are hopeful that measures will be implemented to restore trust and ensure that genuine patients can receive the necessary medical attention in India.
