OSHC/OVHC
Ensure Your Well-Being Abroad!
Expert Education helps you find the ideal OSHC policy for a worry-free study experience.
Studying in Australia as an international student involves not only paying tuition fees and securing accommodation but also managing medical and hospital expenses. Your health should be a top priority alongside your educational objectives. Since Medicare is not available to international students, you will need to obtain a specific health coverage plan known as Overseas Student Health Cover .
OSHC is designed to assist international students with their medical and hospital expenses while studying in Australia. To be eligible for this coverage, it is essential that students purchase this health policy for the duration of their academic program.
For students enrolling in courses lasting three months or less, a tourist visa along with a private international student insurance plan that covers this period can be obtained.
Leading OSHC Providers in Australia
Both the international student and any dependents must secure a health policy. A single OSHC policy is suitable for one applicant, while couples or multiple family members will need either a “couple insurance” or a “family health cover.” The insurance must be purchased from an approved provider. When applying for OSHC, certain minimum requirements must be met. Expert Education has a dedicated team that can assist you in selecting the most appropriate international student health cover tailored to your needs.
It is crucial to choose a policy that combines relevant benefits at competitive prices. Expert Education collaborates with leading health insurance companies such as BUPA, Medibank, AHM, NIB, and Allianz Care Australia, allowing you the freedom to select health coverage that fits your budget.
It is important to mention that OSHC does not include coverage for general treatments like optical, dental, or physiotherapy services. Students may need to purchase OSHC Extras for these additional medical services. Moreover, OSHC provides coverage for COVID-19-related illnesses, which are primarily classified under lung and chest conditions, kidney and bladder issues, and dialysis for chronic kidney failure.
For personalized guidance in choosing the right health insurance policy, please consult with our experts today.
Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
International applicants intending to travel to or work in Australia are required to apply for Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC). This policy is applicable for various visa categories, including:
- Visitor Visas: Subclasses 300, 580, 590, 600, 601
- Bridging Visas
- Working Visas: Subclasses 482, 485, 400, 401, 476, 489, etc.
- Working Holiday Visas: Subclasses 417 and 462
If you are a recent international graduate applying for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), you must transition from OSHC to OVHC to fulfill health requirements.
The various OVHC policies vary in costs, eligibility, and benefits. Most OVHC plans cover medically necessary hospital stays and a portion of the consulting fees for doctors.
Unlike OSHC, OVHC allows you to purchase general treatment coverage. This policy pays benefits for services rendered by healthcare professionals in private practice, such as dentists, optometrists, and physiotherapists, allowing you to partially mitigate these costs.
Many OVHC policies also cover limited pharmaceutical expenses, making it essential to choose a plan that aligns with your specific needs. Different health policies are available based on the type of visa application you are submitting.
Finally, note that OSHC policies require pre-purchase for the duration of your academic program and stay, while OVHC costs can be paid on a monthly basis.