Health cover sorted before you arrive
Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory for most student visas in Australia. We arrange your policy through trusted partner platforms, so your cover is confirmed and ready when you need it.
What Is OSHC?
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is health insurance designed specifically for international students in Australia. It covers essential medical costs while you study, and in most cases, you cannot lodge a student visa application without it.
If you are travelling with dependants (a partner, spouse, or children), you will need couples cover or family cover to meet your visa requirements.
Students from Norway, Sweden, and Belgium may be exempt from OSHC if covered under a reciprocal health care agreement with Australia. We can confirm whether an exemption applies to your situation.
| Who needs it | Most Subclass 500 visa holders |
| When to arrange | Before visa lodgement |
| Duration | Full length of your visa |
| Dependants | Couples or family cover required |
What does OSHC typically cover?
Doctor and specialist visits
In-hospital and out-of-hospital medical consultations
Hospital treatment and surgery
Accommodation, theatre fees, and intensive care
Ambulance services
Emergency ambulance transport
Prescription medicines
Limited pharmaceuticals, subject to co-payments
Pathology and diagnostics
Blood tests, X-rays, and imaging
Mental health services
Waiting periods may apply depending on provider
Cover levels vary between providers and policies. We help you compare options so you understand exactly what your policy includes before you purchase.
Arrange your OSHC
OSHC policies are underwritten by approved insurers including Bupa, Medibank, nib, Allianz Care, AHM, and CBHS. You can compare and arrange your cover through any of our partner platforms below, and we will obtain your OSHC certificate promptly for your visa lodgement.
Overseas Visitors Cover (OVC)
If you hold a temporary visa other than a student visa (such as a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485), Working Holiday (subclass 417), or Temporary Skill Shortage (subclass 482) visa), you will need Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) rather than OSHC. Students who graduate and transition to a post-study work visa will also need to switch from OSHC to OVHC.
Not sure which cover you need?
We'll check your visa requirements and recommend the right policy for your situation.