One of your most important requirements is 485 visa health insurance, also known as Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC). This guide provides everything you need to know to make the best decision for your health and peace of mind.
The 485 Temporary Graduate Visa lets you live, work, and study in Australia temporarily after graduation. But, to meet visa condition 8501, you must have and maintain adequate health insurance for your entire stay.
Australian public healthcare (Medicare) is not available to most temporary visa holders. Without OVHC, you risk visa refusal or cancellation - and huge out-of-pocket medical costs.
While cover varies by provider and level, all compliant OVHC plans for 485 visas must include:
Pro Tip: Some countries have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia. If you’re eligible for Medicare, you might apply for a waiver, but OVHC is usually still required at application stage.
1. Basic Cover
2. Standard/Mid-Level Cover
3. Top/Comprehensive Cover
You can choose from:
If you’re moving from a student visa to a 485 visa, you’ll need to switch from Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to OVHC.
Q: Can my visa be refused without health insurance?
A: Yes, you must show evidence of compliant health insurance to be granted your 485 visa.
Q: What if my home country has Medicare in Australia?
A: You may be eligible for an exemption, but you need to check with the Department of Home Affairs and your insurer.
Q: Is cheap cover good enough?
A: It must meet the minimum visa requirements, but consider your personal needs - sometimes a slightly higher premium saves money later on health costs.