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OSHC Insurance Advice

Your guide to Overseas Student Health Cover.

NN
Nilesh Nandan
Immigration Lawyer · BBus(Accy) LLB MBA · Last updated March 2026
Book a 10-minute chat · $97

Overview

As an international student in Australia, you are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your student visa. I provide expert advice on OSHC, helping you choose a policy that meets the Department of Home Affairs' requirements and provides the cover you need while you study. I'll help you understand the different policies and find the best value for your money.

OSHC is a mandatory requirement for all student visa holders in Australia. It covers you for medical expenses, including visits to the doctor, hospital treatment, and prescription medications. There are several government-approved OSHC providers, and I can help you compare their policies to find one that suits your needs and budget. I will ensure your chosen policy provides continuous cover from your arrival in Australia until your student visa expires.

Choosing the right OSHC policy is an important step in your journey as an international student. I will explain the different levels of cover, including what is covered by basic policies and the benefits of more comprehensive plans. I can also assist with policies for your family members if they are accompanying you to Australia. My goal is to make the process of obtaining OSHC as simple and stress-free as possible.

Key Facts

Visa RequirementMandatory for all student visa holders
ProvidersGovernment-approved OSHC providers
CoverageMedical expenses, hospital treatment, and pharmaceuticals
CostVaries by provider and duration of study (verify on Home Affairs website)

How I Work — Step by Step

1

Needs Assessment

We discuss your course duration, family members accompanying you, and any specific health needs to determine your OSHC requirements.

2

Provider Comparison

I provide a comprehensive comparison of OSHC policies from all approved providers, highlighting the key features and costs.

3

Application & Confirmation

I assist you with the OSHC application process and ensure you receive your policy certificate in a timely manner.

4

Visa Lodgement Support

I provide you with the necessary OSHC documentation to include with your student visa application.

What I Do

  • Explain the OSHC requirements for student visa holders.
  • Provide a comparison of policies from all government-approved OSHC providers.
  • Assist you in selecting and applying for the most suitable OSHC policy.
  • Ensure your OSHC policy covers the full duration of your student visa.
  • Advise on OSHC for your spouse and dependent children.
  • Assist with renewing or extending your OSHC policy.
  • Provide advice on how to make a claim on your OSHC policy.

Who Is This For?

  • ›International students applying for a student visa.
  • ›Student visa holders who need to renew or extend their OSHC.
  • ›Students who are bringing their family to Australia and need to arrange OSHC for them.
  • ›Students who want to understand the benefits of different OSHC policies.

Common questions about

Do I have to get OSHC?+
Yes, it is a mandatory requirement for all international students in Australia. You must have OSHC for the entire duration of your student visa.
When should I arrange my OSHC?+
You should arrange your OSHC before you apply for your student visa, as you will need to provide evidence of your policy with your application. Your cover must start from the day you arrive in Australia.
Can I use my own health insurance from my home country?+
No, you must have OSHC from a government-approved Australian provider. Health insurance from your home country will not be accepted for your student visa application.
What if my student visa is extended?+
If your student visa is extended, you will need to extend your OSHC policy to cover the new visa period. I can assist you with this process to ensure you maintain continuous cover.

The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Thoughts only — not legal advice.

Important: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law in Australia is complex, fact-specific, and subject to frequent change under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth), the Migration Regulations 1994, and departmental policy. You must seek independent, qualified legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any immigration decision or taking any action. Viewing this website does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Terms of Use | Full Disclaimer