For thousands of families in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet, Chennai is not just a city; it is a destination of hope. Whether it’s for a liver
transplant at Gleneagles Global or a cardiac bypass at Apollo, Chennai offers advanced medical care that may be unavailable locally or comparatively more expensive in other countries.

But the journey isn't just about booking a flight.

How do you get an IVAC appointment when slots are full?

Where can you find Bengali food near the hospital?

Which doctor is most appropriate for your specific condition?

At Karetrip.com , we coordinate travel logistics for hundreds of Bangladeshi patients every month. This Ultimate Logistics Checklist is designed to help your trip remain organized, safe, and structured.

Phase 1: The Paperwork (Before You Fly)

The most common reason for delay is incomplete or rejected visa documentation. Follow this sequence carefully:

1. Get the "Visa Invitation Letter" (The Golden Ticket)

You cannot apply for a Medical Visa without a valid invitation letter from a recognized Indian hospital.

The Karetrip Shortcut: Instead of emailing hospitals and waiting several days, you can chat with Rua. We coordinate with leading Chennai hospitals to generate invitation letters—subject to document review and hospital approval—often within 2–4 hours.

Checklist:

• Patient’s Passport Copy (Minimum 6 months validity).
• Attendant’s Passport Copy (Usually blood relative; confirm embassy rules).
• Local Medical Report (Diagnosis, investigation summaries, doctor notes).

Incomplete documentation may delay processing.

2. The IVAC Appointment (Visa Application)

Bangladeshi citizens must apply through the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC), managed by SBI.

Note for 2026: E-Medical Visas are frequently restricted for Bangladeshi nationals. In most cases, a Regular Medical Visa (physical passport submission) is required. Visa rules are subject to change; always verify current guidelines.

Steps:

• Fill the form at indianvisaonline.gov.in.

• Select the correct mission (Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, etc.).

• Book a slot at your nearest IVAC centre.

Pro Tip: Ensure the hospital name exactly matches your invitation letter to avoid processing delays.

Phase 2: Choosing the Right Doctor & Hospital

Don’t just travel to “Chennai.” Travel to the appropriate specialist for your diagnosis.

1. Browse Top Hospitals

Chennai has distinct hubs known for specific treatments:

For Heart & Kidneys: Apollo Hospitals (Greams Road) is widely recognized for multispecialty tertiary care.

For Liver Transplants: Gleneagles Global (Perumbakkam) is known for structured transplant programs.

For Bone & Joints: MIOT International (Manapakkam) is recognized for orthopaedic procedures.

Explore the best hospitals in Chennai.

Hospital selection should be based on diagnosis, procedural expertise, accreditation, and surgeon experience—not brand name alone.

2. Verify the Surgeon

Before flying, confirm:

• Surgeon’s qualifications

• Years of experience

• Subspecialty focus

• Hospital affiliation

• Accreditation status

You can review profiles and credentials on verified hospital or regulatory databases. Clinical outcomes vary depending on patient health status and procedural complexity.

Phase 3: Flights & Arrival Logistics

1. Direct Flights from Dhaka (DAC) to Chennai (MAA)

Booking direct flights may reduce travel stress.

Common Airlines: US-Bangla Airlines, IndiGo, Biman Bangladesh.

Flight Time: Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.

Karetrip Tip: If the patient is weak or elderly, request “Wheelchair Assistance” during booking. This may facilitate smoother airport navigation, though priority handling depends on airport protocols.

2. Currency Exchange (The "Endorsement" Rule)

Do NOT exchange all Bangladeshi Taka at Dhaka airport if exchange rates are unfavorable.

Many travelers prefer to bring USD (US Dollars) for exchange in Chennai at authorized money changers.

Important: Ensure currency endorsement rules are followed as per Bangladeshi and Indian regulations. Carrying large sums of cash may require declaration. Always comply with financial laws.

2. Currency Exchange (The "Endorsement" Rule)

Do NOT exchange all Bangladeshi Taka at Dhaka airport if exchange rates are unfavorable.

Many travelers prefer to bring USD (US Dollars) for exchange in Chennai at authorized money changers.

Important: Ensure currency endorsement rules are followed as per Bangladeshi and Indian regulations. Carrying large sums of cash may require declaration. Always comply with financial laws.

Phase 4: Accommodation (Where to Stay?)

Chennai is a large city. Selecting accommodation close to your hospital can significantly reduce travel fatigue.

Hub A: Greams Road (Near Apollo Main)

Vibe: Busy medical district, several Bangladeshi restaurants nearby. Stay: Budget lodges and guest houses typically range ₹800 – ₹1500/day (approximate).

Hub B: Perumbakkam (Near Gleneagles Global)

Vibe: Quieter residential area. Stay: Service apartments may be suitable for long transplant recovery stays.

Hub C: Manapakkam (Near MIOT)

Vibe: Residential and relatively calm. Accommodation quality varies; verify safety, hygiene, and distance from the hospital before booking.

Phase 5: Daily Life in Chennai

1. Food (The "Maach-Bhat" Factor)

You do not have to eat only South Indian cuisine.

Near Apollo (Greams Road area), several eateries serve Bengali-style fish curry and rice. Availability may vary.

For transplant or cardiac patients on strict diets, confirm dietary restrictions with your treating physician. Some service apartments allow cooking facilities, which may help maintain medically prescribed diets.

2. Connectivity

SIM Card: Airtel or Jio SIM cards are available at Chennai Airport (passport and visa copy required).

Transport: Use app-based services such as Uber or Ola. Avoid unmetered auto-rickshaws unless fare is confirmed in advance.

Always share live location with family during early days of travel.

Conclusion: Structured Planning Reduces Stress

Traveling for surgery is medically and emotionally demanding. Structured coordination can reduce logistical stress and allow patients to focus on treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only. Visa rules for Bangladeshi nationals are subject to change by the Indian High Commission and IVAC authorities. Karetrip facilitates medical travel logistics but does not guarantee visa issuance, hospital admission, or clinical outcomes. Treatment success depends on individual medical condition, surgeon expertise, and hospital protocols. Always consult qualified medical professionals before making healthcare decisions.