OVHC/OSHC Partner
Overseas Student Health Cover
International students on a temporary visa are required to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) throughout their stay in Australia. This essential coverage protects you against medical expenses and hospital care during your studies.
At Study Mate Migration, we guide you through available OSHC plans, helping you choose the most suitable option based on your needs, coverage period, and budget. Through our trusted network, we connect you with Australia’s leading OSHC providers such as Bupa, Allianz, Medibank, nib, and ahm—ensuring a seamless and reliable experience.
OSHC and OVHC Health Insurance for Visa Holders
Most temporary visa holders in Australia must keep adequate health insurance. Student visa holders need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for their whole stay, and many other temporary visa holders need Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC). Study Mate Migration helps you compare policies and choose cover that matches your visa dates and budget.
Why it matters
- Most Student visas include visa condition 8501, which requires adequate health insurance while you are in Australia
- Your cover must match your visa dates, including any family members on your visa
- Letting your cover lapse can put your visa at risk
We compare cover from providers such as Bupa, Allianz Care, Medibank, nib and ahm. Read OSHC explained for a full guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between OSHC and OVHC?
OSHC is designed for Student visa holders. OVHC is for other temporary visa holders, such as Temporary Graduate (485) or work visa holders.
Does OSHC cover dental and optical?
Usually not under the standard policy. Some providers offer optional extras cover.
When should my OSHC start?
Your cover should start when you arrive or when your visa starts, and last until your visa ends.
Choosing the Right Health Cover for Your Visa
Health insurance is a visa requirement for most temporary visa holders in Australia. The right policy keeps you compliant with your visa conditions and protects you from high medical costs.
OSHC for students
Overseas Student Health Cover is compulsory for student visa holders and their dependants for the whole visa period. It must be provided by an approved OSHC insurer.
OVHC for workers and visitors
Overseas Visitor Health Cover suits 482, 485, 494 and other temporary visa holders who must keep adequate health insurance under condition 8501.
Single, couple or family
Choose a policy that covers everyone included in your visa. Family members joining later must also be covered.
Waiting periods
Pre-existing conditions and pregnancy services often have waiting periods, so buy cover early.
What OSHC usually covers
- Visits to a GP and some specialist services
- Public hospital treatment and some private hospital costs
- Ambulance services
- Some prescription medicines
Tips
- Match your cover end date to your visa expiry date
- Keep your policy active if your visa is extended or you change courses
- Compare cover, not just price
- Read our OSHC explained guide
More questions
Can I change my OSHC provider?
Yes. You can switch between approved insurers, but make sure there is no gap in cover.
Do I need OSHC for a 485 visa?
No, but 485 holders must maintain adequate health insurance, usually through an OVHC policy.
What if my OSHC expires before my visa?
You may breach your visa condition. Renew or extend it before it ends.
Why choose Study Mate Migration
Clients across Australia
We support clients across Australia and overseas, in person at our Adelaide office, by phone or online.
Study and visa advice together
We plan your course and your visa side by side, so your study choices support your long-term goals.
Clear written quotes
You’ll know our fees upfront. We give you a written quote before any work starts.
Updates at every stage
We keep you informed from your first consultation to your visa decision, and we answer your questions promptly.
