Why Health Insurance is Mandatory
Australia has one of the best public healthcare systems in the world (Medicare). However, as a temporary visa holder (such as an international student, graduate, or sponsored worker), you are generally not eligible for Medicare.
To ensure you are not burdened with massive medical bills if you get sick or injured, the Australian Government makes holding private health insurance a strict condition of granting your visa.
At Jinova, we take the stress out of this process by arranging your cover directly through our partnered providers (including Bupa, Medibank, NIB, and Allianz Care) often at discounted corporate rates.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
If you are applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you must purchase OSHC for yourself and any accompanying family members.
Pre-Payment Requirement
You cannot pay for OSHC month-by-month. The Department of Home Affairs requires you to pre-pay your OSHC for the entire duration of your proposed student visa upfront. We calculate the exact dates you need based on your CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment) and arrange the policy certificate instantly to submit with your visa.
What does OSHC cover?
- Doctor visits (GP)
- Hospital treatment and accommodation
- Emergency ambulance services
- Limited pharmaceuticals
Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
If you are applying for a working visa, such as the Temporary Graduate Visa (485) or the TSS Employer Sponsored Visa (482), you must hold OVHC.
Unlike OSHC, you do not need to pre-pay your entire visa duration upfront. OVHC is typically paid in monthly installments. However, you must still provide a letter from the health fund proving your policy is active before your visa can be granted.
Note: Some countries (like the UK, Italy, and New Zealand) have Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA) with Australia. We can advise if this exempts you from needing OVHC.
Condition 8501: Maintain Health Insurance
Almost all temporary visas are granted subject to Condition 8501. This is a strict legal requirement stating that you must maintain adequate arrangements for health insurance while you are in Australia.
If you let your OSHC or OVHC lapse, or if you cancel your payments, your health fund will report you to the Department of Home Affairs. This is a direct breach of your visa conditions and can lead to immediate visa cancellation.
