Your guide to health cover in Australia
A simple guide to health insurance for visitors and students in Australia. This guide explains the two main types of private health insurance commonly required for people coming to Australia: Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Understand the differences and compare available options from participating Australian health insurers. We provide general information only and do not provide personal advice or recommend policies.
Understanding overseas visitor health cover (OVHC)
OVHC is private health insurance designed for people visiting or temporarily living in Australia who are not eligible for Medicare. It's commonly used by tourists, temporary workers (e.g., 482, 485 visa holders), parents and relatives on long-stay visas, and individuals awaiting permanent residency. OVHC policies typically help cover hospital treatment, medical services, emergency care, and ambulance services. Coverage levels, waiting periods, and exclusions vary by insurer, so it's important to review policy details.
Navigating overseas student health cover (OSHC)
OSHC is health insurance specifically for international students studying in Australia and is generally mandatory for student visa holders and their dependants. OSHC is commonly required for international students and their partners and children. These policies typically help cover doctor visits, hospital treatment, prescription medicines, and emergency ambulance services. OSHC policies are designed to meet student visa requirements, but inclusions and benefits vary by insurer. Always ensure your chosen cover aligns with your visa conditions.
OVHC vs. OSHC: know the difference
The key distinction between OVHC and OSHC lies in who they are designed for and their visa requirements. OVHC is for visitors and temporary residents, often required but not always mandatory, and covers visitors and workers. OSHC, however, is specifically for international students, usually mandatory for student visa holders, and covers students. Both types generally cover hospital and medical services. Choosing the correct type depends solely on your visa category, not personal preference.
How we help you compare
Our website is designed to simplify your search. We enable you to view participating Australian health insurers, compare general features and indicative pricing, and then continue directly to the insurer to apply for your policy. It's important to note that we do not recommend specific policies, assess personal circumstances, or handle applications or payments. All applications are completed securely on the insurer’s own website, ensuring transparency and direct engagement.
Which insurers offer OVHC & OSHC?
Participating Australian health insurers may include well-known providers such as Bupa Australia, Allianz Care Australia, Medibank, NIB, and ahm Health Insurance. Please be aware that the list of participating insurers may change over time, so we recommend checking our comparison page for the most current options available.