Your Health in Australia: Essential Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Studying in Australia as an international student means planning for more than just tuition, accommodation, and living expenses—you must also consider medical and hospital costs. Your health is just as important as your academic goals.
However, Medicare, Australia’s public health system, does not cover international students. To ensure health protection during your stay, Australia has introduced a specific policy known as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
What is OSHC?
OSHC is a mandatory health insurance policy for international students, designed to cover essential medical and hospital expenses while studying in Australia. To meet your visa requirements, both you and any accompanying dependents must maintain OSHC coverage for the entire duration of your academic course.
- For courses lasting three months or less, students can apply for a tourist visa and obtain a private international student insurance plan that covers the shorter duration.
- OSHC is compulsory for both students and dependents during the entire stay in Australia. A standard policy covers one student, while partners or family members will require couple or family OSHC plans.
Why OSHC Matters
We partner with leading, government-approved OSHC providers such as BUPA, Medibank, AHM, NIB, and Allianz Care Australia to offer flexible, affordable policies that meet every requirement.
- Covers medical & hospital expenses
- Fulfills student visa conditions
- Includes COVID-19 related illnesses (including conditions affecting lungs, chest, kidneys, and chronic kidney failure/dialysis)
Need help choosing the right OSHC?
Speak to our consultants today for expert guidance.
Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
If you're visiting or working in Australia on a non-student visa, you’ll need Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) instead.
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OVHC is suitable for various visa categories, including:
- Visitor Visas: Subclasses 300, 580, 590, 600, 601
- Bridging Visas
- Work Visas: Subclasses 482, 485, 400, 401, 476, 489, etc.
- Working Holiday Visas: Subclasses 417 & 462
For example, international graduates applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) must transition from OSHC to OVHC to meet the new health insurance requirements.
Key Differences Between OSHC and OVHC
| Feature | OSHC | OVHC |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | International students | Visitors, workers, graduates |
| Coverage | Medical, hospital, COVID-19 | Medical, hospital, optional general treatment |
| Extras | No general treatment | Can include dental, optical, physiotherapy |
| Payment | Paid in full for course duration | Often paid monthly |
| Visa Requirement | Student visas | Various work/visitor visas |
Why Choose Us?
We help you find the best health cover suited to your visa type, budget, and healthcare needs. Whether you're a student or a working professional, we ensure you're protected during your stay in Australia.
- BUPA
- Medibank
- AHM
- NIB
- Allianz Care Australia
Do You Want to Find the Best Health Policy for You?
Ready for Your Visa Journey? Connect with Kwatra Consulting Today.
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