OSHC cost and how to pay from overseas

OSHC costs

OSHC premiums are set by individual insurers and vary depending on the insurer, the level of cover, and the policy duration. As a general guide, single cover costs approximately AUD 500–700 per year. Couple cover costs approximately AUD 1,000–1,400 per year. Family cover (couple plus children) costs approximately AUD 1,200–1,700 per year.

Policies are typically purchased for the duration of the visa (which may be longer than the course duration). A three-year course may require three years of OSHC prepaid or with annual renewal options.

Some education providers negotiate group rates with specific OSHC insurers, which may be cheaper than purchasing individually. Check with your education provider before buying OSHC independently.

Approved OSHC providers

Only insurers approved by the Australian Government can provide OSHC. The current approved providers include Medibank, Bupa, Allianz Care Australia, Australian Health Management (ahm), and nib. Each provider offers slightly different products, premiums, and additional benefits. Comparing policies on coverage limits, out-of-pocket costs, and extras (dental, optical) is worthwhile.

How to pay from overseas

Most OSHC providers accept payment from overseas using international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard). Some providers also accept bank transfers from overseas accounts. The payment is made in AUD — your card issuer or bank handles the currency conversion at their prevailing rate.

Many education providers bundle OSHC payment with tuition fees, allowing you to pay both in a single transaction through the university's payment system. This is often the simplest approach and may include the group-rate discount.

If paying directly to an OSHC provider from overseas, visit the provider's website, select a policy, enter your visa and course details, and pay by card. The provider issues a certificate of insurance, which you include with your visa application through ImmiAccount.

What OSHC covers

OSHC covers medically necessary visits to a general practitioner, treatment in a public hospital as a public patient, some prescription medications listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, ambulance services (in most states — check your policy), and some pathology and diagnostic imaging.

OSHC does not cover dental, optical, or physiotherapy (unless you purchase extras cover, which some providers offer at additional cost). It does not cover pre-existing conditions during a waiting period (typically 12 months for pre-existing conditions). It does not cover elective or cosmetic procedures.

Timing

OSHC must be in place before your student visa can be granted. Most applicants purchase OSHC before or at the time of lodging their visa application. If your visa processing takes several months, your OSHC start date should align with your expected arrival date — check with your provider about adjusting the start date if needed.

If you extend your visa (for example, to complete additional study), you must extend your OSHC to cover the new visa end date. A gap in OSHC cover may affect your visa conditions.

Can I choose any OSHC provider?

Yes — you can choose any of the government-approved OSHC providers. Your education provider may recommend a specific insurer, but you are not required to use their recommendation.

Is OSHC the same as Medicare?

No. OSHC is private health insurance for international students. Medicare is Australia's public health system for citizens and permanent residents. OSHC provides similar (but not identical) coverage levels.

What if I arrive before my OSHC start date?

You would not be covered during the gap. Ensure your OSHC start date aligns with your arrival date. If you arrive early, contact your OSHC provider to adjust the start date.

Can I switch OSHC providers?

Yes, during your policy. You can transfer to another approved OSHC provider without a break in cover. Contact both the old and new providers to arrange the transfer.

Is OSHC tax-deductible?

For student visa holders, OSHC premiums are generally not tax-deductible. OSHC is a visa condition, not a medical expense deduction.