Health Insurance (OSHC/OVHC)
Whether you're coming to Australia to study or visit, maintaining adequate health insurance is not just a wise decision—it's often a visa requirement. Australia's healthcare system is world-class, but medical services can be costly, and most international visitors are not eligible for Medicare, which acts as a form of public health insurance for Australian Citizens only.
✅Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
If you're an international student on a subclass 500 visa, you must have OSHC for the entire duration of your stay. This insurance helps cover the costs of medical and hospital care, and may also include limited coverage for pharmaceuticals and ambulance services. It's a mandatory condition of your student visa and must be arranged before your arrival in Australia.
✅Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
For visitors on temporary visas such as subclasses 600, 601, 651, or 870, maintaining OVHC may be required under visa condition 8501. This condition mandates that visa holders maintain adequate health insurance for the duration of their stay. OVHC provides coverage for medical treatments, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency ambulance services. Not having OVHC when required can lead to visa cancellation.
✅ Essential Highlights
- Mandatory for Visa Holders: OSHC is compulsory for international students; OVHC may be required for other visa holders.
- Pre-Arrival Requirement: OSHC or OVHC should be arranged before arriving in Australia depending on your visa type.
- Continuous Coverage: Ensure your insurance covers the entire duration of your stay without gaps.
- Peace of Mind: Having the right health cover protects you from unexpected medical expenses and ensures access to necessary healthcare services.
If you need assistance in selecting the right health insurance plan that meets your visa requirements, feel free to contact us.
