By: Alex Smith
The Subclass 485 visa, also known as the Temporary Graduate visa, offers international students in Australia the opportunity to remain in the country after completing their studies. Whether you’re gaining skilled work experience or simply enjoying an extended stay, there’s one non-negotiable requirement you’ll need to meet—health insurance.
This blog explores why 485 visa health insurance is essential, what coverage options exist, how to choose a policy, and what benefits it provides for temporary graduates navigating post-study life in Australia.
What Is the 485 Visa and Why Is Health Insurance Required?
The 485 visa allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after graduating. It’s divided into two main streams:
Graduate Work stream – for students who graduated with skills and qualifications closely related to a job on Australia’s skilled occupation list
Post-Study Work stream – for recent graduates with a higher education degree from an Australian institution
Regardless of which stream you qualify for, having sufficient health insurance is an important visa requirement. This is because most temporary visa holders, including those on a 485 visa, are not eligible for Medicare—the Australian public health system. Without insurance, even routine medical visits or emergency treatment can become very costly.
Health Insurance Options for 485 Visa Holders
Since international graduates are no longer on student visas, they are no longer eligible for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Instead, they must switch to a more suitable plan for their new visa status.
Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
OVHC is the standard insurance type required for 485 visa holders. It offers a range of coverage depending on the level you choose, such as:
Basic cover: Includes hospital treatment, doctor visits, ambulance, and limited pharmaceuticals.
Comprehensive cover: May include extras like dental, physiotherapy, optical, and other allied health services.
These plans help ensure that visa holders can access the healthcare they need while meeting immigration requirements.
How to Choose the Right OVHC Plan
Not all OVHC plans are the same. Here are key things to consider when selecting the best policy for your needs:
Duration of Stay
Make sure your coverage period aligns with your visa. Many people choose to extend their cover slightly beyond the visa expiry to avoid any unexpected gaps.
Coverage Level
If you’re young, healthy, and looking to save money, a basic plan may suffice. However, if you require ongoing treatment or want added peace of mind, a mid to high-level plan with extras might be worth the extra cost.
Waiting Periods
Some services, such as dental or mental health care, may have waiting periods. It’s important to understand how long you’ll need to wait before claiming on certain treatments.
Affordability
Compare monthly premiums, excess fees, and benefits across providers. A lower premium might come with higher out-of-pocket costs, so find a balance that suits your health needs and budget.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Understanding inclusions and exclusions can help avoid surprises later. Here’s what to expect:
Common Inclusions
- Doctor consultations
- Hospital accommodation and treatments
- Ambulance transport
- Selected prescription medications
- Emergency services
Common Exclusions
- Pre-existing conditions (unless disclosed and waiting periods have passed)
- Cosmetic or elective surgeries
- Fertility treatment
- Maternity-related services (unless covered under a higher-tier plan)
- Always read the policy details carefully to make sure you’re covered for what you need.
How to Apply for 485 Visa Health Insurance
Applying for OVHC is generally straightforward. Follow these steps:
Decide on a coverage level – Basic, standard, or comprehensive.
Compare different plans – Look at what’s included, exclusions, and total cost.
Purchase online – Most providers offer quick online applications.
Save your certificate of insurance – This may be requested during your visa application or by immigration authorities later.
You can purchase OVHC even before your 485 visa is approved, and it can begin on the day your visa becomes active.
Maintaining Your Insurance
Once you have your policy in place, make sure to:
Keep your payments up to date – Missed payments can result in cancelled cover.
Update your provider – If your visa status changes or you plan to stay longer, notify your insurer.
Store receipts and paperwork – This will make claims processing faster and easier.
What Happens if You Don’t Have Health Insurance?
Lack of appropriate coverage can lead to complications such as:
- Visa cancellation or refusal
- Limited access to medical treatment
- Huge out-of-pocket medical bills
Even if your visa is granted without insurance initially, immigration officials can request proof of ongoing coverage at any time.
The Bigger Picture: Why It’s Worth Having
Aside from being a legal requirement, having health insurance gives you confidence and security while you focus on your next steps—whether that’s job hunting, travelling, or settling into a new lifestyle.
It allows you to access healthcare promptly, reduces stress in emergencies, and protects you from financial hardship if something unexpected happens.
Conclusion
Health insurance for the 485 visa isn’t just a bureaucratic box to tick—it’s an essential tool for your safety, comfort, and well-being while living in Australia. By choosing the right policy for your situation and maintaining your cover throughout your stay, you can enjoy your post-study life with fewer worries and more opportunities to thrive.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about OVHC insurance. It is not professional advice. Please review the specific terms and conditions of any insurance policy and consult an authorized provider or agent for personalized guidance.
