Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about OSHC, OVHC and Visa Condition 8501.

General

Visa Condition 8501 requires certain Australian visa holders to maintain adequate health insurance while they are in Australia. The condition is designed to ensure visitors, students and temporary residents have access to appropriate healthcare and do not place an unnecessary burden on Australia's public health system. If your visa includes Condition 8501, you should maintain a compliant health insurance policy for the entire duration of your stay.

Many temporary Australian visas may require adequate health insurance, including Student Visa (500), Temporary Graduate Visa (485), Visitor Visa (600), Sponsored Parent Visa (870), Skills in Demand Visa (482), Training Visa (407), Temporary Activity Visa (408), Working Holiday Visa (417), Work and Holiday Visa (462), Bridging Visas and several other temporary visa subclasses. The exact requirement depends on your visa grant conditions.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is designed specifically for Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders and certain student dependants. Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) is generally suitable for many other temporary visa holders, including visitors, workers and graduates. Choosing the correct type of cover depends on your visa subclass and visa conditions.

The right health insurance depends on your visa subclass, your visa conditions, your budget and the level of cover you require. Comparing multiple Australian health insurers allows you to review benefits, hospital cover, waiting periods, excess options and pricing before selecting a policy that best suits your circumstances.

You can compare health insurance policies from leading Australian providers, including Allianz Care, Bupa, Medibank, nib, HCF and AIA. Available products and premiums may vary depending on your visa subclass, age, family composition and length of stay in Australia.

Yes. Comparing multiple providers allows you to review policy features, premiums, benefits and eligibility requirements side by side. This makes it easier to find health insurance that meets your visa requirements while matching your healthcare needs and budget.

It is generally recommended that you arrange your health insurance before your visa is granted or before travelling to Australia if your visa requires adequate health insurance. Maintaining continuous cover throughout your stay helps you remain compliant with your visa conditions.

Yes. In many cases, temporary visa holders can change their health insurance provider. Before switching, you should ensure your new policy continues to satisfy your visa requirements and that there is no gap in your health insurance coverage.

Most Australian health insurers issue a Certificate of Insurance shortly after your policy is purchased and payment is confirmed. This certificate may be required when lodging your visa application or as evidence that you meet your visa's health insurance requirements.

Comparing health insurance allows you to evaluate different policies based on price, benefits, waiting periods, hospital cover, extras and policy features. Rather than selecting the first available option, comparison helps you make a more informed decision and choose a policy that best suits your visa requirements and personal circumstances.
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