Compare OSHC & OVHC — find the right cover for your visa type in Australia.
Whether you're an international student or an overseas visitor, having the right health insurance in Australia is essential — and in most cases, legally required. We help you find and compare both OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) and OVHC (Overseas Visitor Health Cover) from leading Australian providers.
Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory for all international students on a student visa. It covers you for medical, hospital, and some ambulance costs while you study in Australia.
Overseas Visitor Health Cover is for people visiting or living in Australia on a temporary visa who are not eligible for Medicare. It is required for certain visa types and recommended for all overseas visitors.
Cover for in-hospital treatment, surgery, and emergency department visits.
Access to general practitioners and specialist consultations at reduced cost.
Partial or full cover for prescribed medicines under the PBS.
Emergency ambulance services covered under most OSHC and OVHC plans.
Mandatory for international students on a student visa in Australia.
For overseas visitors on temporary visas who are not eligible for Medicare.
The type of health cover you need depends on your visa. Below are the most common visa categories and whether they require OSHC or OVHC.
The most common visa for full-time international students. OSHC is mandatory for the full duration of your visa and must be purchased before arriving in Australia.
For parents or relatives accompanying a student under 18. OSHC is required for the guardian for the full duration of their stay.
Workers on employer-sponsored visas are generally required to hold OVHC for the duration of their stay in Australia.
Working holiday makers are not eligible for Medicare and are strongly recommended to hold OVHC throughout their stay.
After completing your studies, you transition from OSHC to OVHC. Make sure your cover is updated before your student visa expires.
Not eligible for Medicare. OVHC is strongly recommended to protect against unexpected medical costs during your visit.