Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Protect Your Health While Studying in Australia

If you’re an international student planning to study in Australia, having Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is not just a smart choice — it’s a visa requirement.

OSHC helps you cover the costs of essential medical and hospital care while in Australia, giving you peace of mind so you can focus on your studies. It also contributes towards the cost of prescription medicines and ambulance services.

Whether you’re applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) or already in Australia, arranging the right OSHC policy ensures you stay compliant with immigration rules and have access to healthcare when you need it.

Why OSHC is Essential for International Students

A valid OSHC policy can mean:

• Compliance with your student visa conditions
• Financial protection against high medical expenses
• Access to hospital and GP services when needed
• Reduced stress during unexpected health issues

Our expert assistance helps you:

• Select the most suitable OSHC provider for your needs and budget
• Understand policy inclusions, exclusions, and benefits
• Arrange coverage for the entire duration of your student visa
• Avoid gaps in coverage that could affect your visa status

Key Benefits of Having OSHC

✅ Mandatory for Student Visa (Subclass 500) compliance
✅ Covers visits to the doctor and hospital stays
✅ Contributes towards prescription medicines
✅ Includes emergency ambulance services
✅ Options for singles, couples, or family cover

Who Needs OSHC?

You need OSHC if you:

• Are applying for or currently hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
• Are an international student (not an Australian or New Zealand citizen)
• Will be studying in Australia for more than three months

⏳ Important: OSHC must be arranged before your student visa is granted and must cover your entire visa period.

Eligibility Criteria for OSHC

To be eligible for OSHC, you must:

• Be an international student studying in Australia
• Hold or be applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
• Choose a policy from an approved OSHC provider
• Pay the required premium in advance for the coverage period

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not purchasing OSHC before visa application lodgement
• Choosing coverage that ends before your visa expiry date
• Failing to cover dependants if they are included on your visa
• Assuming OSHC covers all healthcare costs (some exclusions apply)

Required Information for OSHC Application

• Full name and date of birth
• Passport details
• Visa application or grant details
• Course start and end dates
• Details of dependants (if applicable)

Processing Time and Validity

• Processing Time: Usually instant to 48 hours after payment
• Validity: Matches the length of your student visa
• Coverage starts from your nominated arrival date in Australia

How We Help You Secure OSHC

At [Your Business Name], we:

• Compare OSHC options from government-approved providers
• Recommend the best cover for your budget and study duration
• Ensure your policy aligns with visa conditions
• Arrange payment and documentation quickly for your visa application
• Provide ongoing assistance if you need to extend or adjust your cover

Frequently Asked Questions – OSHC

Is OSHC mandatory for all international students?
Yes — it’s a condition for the grant of a Student Visa (Subclass 500).

Can I switch OSHC providers after arriving in Australia?
Yes, but you must maintain continuous coverage to remain compliant.

Does OSHC cover dental and optical services?
Not under standard OSHC — you may need additional extras cover for these services.

OSHC Summary

Approval Body: Department of Home Affairs (via approved OSHC providers)
Eligible Applicants: International students applying for or holding a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Key Requirements: Valid OSHC policy for entire visa period, purchased from an approved provider
Processing Time: Instant to 48 hours
Outcome: Health insurance coverage required for visa compliance and medical protection

Secure Your Health Cover Before You Travel

Don’t risk your visa or your health — arrange your OSHC with professional guidance to ensure full compliance and peace of mind.