Home /
Case Study
Blog
485 Visa Health Insurance: A Complete Guide for Graduates
July 24, 2025
Are you an international graduate planning to stay, study, or work in Australia on a 485 Temporary Graduate Visa?
The Reality Check

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 Turning Point

What is a 485 Visa and Why Do You Need Health Insurance?


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.


What Does 485 Visa Health Insurance Cover?


While cover varies by provider and level, all compliant OVHC plans for 485 visas must include:

  • Hospital treatment (public and private hospitals)
  • Emergency ambulance services
  • Doctor and specialist visits (in and out of hospital)
  • Prescription medicines (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme)
  • Surgically implanted prostheses
  • Visa compliance certificate (for your visa application)

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.

Types of 485 Visa Health Insurance Plans

1. Basic Cover

  • Meets minimum visa requirements
  • Covers hospital and ambulance
  • Cheapest option (higher excess)

2. Standard/Mid-Level Cover

  • Adds GP and specialist visits
  • Covers some prescription drugs
  • Good value for most graduates

3. Top/Comprehensive Cover

  • Includes dental, optical, physio
  • More extras for everyday health
  • Best for families or those with ongoing needs

You can choose from:

  • Single (just you)
  • Couple (you and a partner)
  • Family (kids/dependents too)

Switching from OSHC to OVHC

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.

  • Apply for your 485 visa with your current OSHC if it’s still valid
  • Change to OVHC before your OSHC expires
  • Most insurers will refund unused OSHC when you switch

How to Choose the Right Policy?

  1. Compare Providers: Use Get My Policy to view options from leading brands like Bupa, Medibank, NIB, Allianz Care, and more.
  2. Assess Your Needs: Consider if you want extras like dental or optical, and whether you need single or family cover.
  3. Check Waiting Periods: Some services have waiting times before you can claim.
  4. Look for Flexibility: OVHC allows monthly, fortnightly, or yearly payments - no need to pay upfront for your entire stay.
  5. Read Reviews: Learn about each provider’s reputation, claims service, and support.

What Made the Difference

Why Compare with GetMyPolicy?

  • Widest choice: Access all major brands in one place
  • Fast visa letter: Instant compliance certificate for your visa application
  • Easy payments: Auto-debit options and online management
  • Expert support: Our team can help you choose the right cover and save money

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Holiday Bliss (Finally)

Start Comparing 485 Visa Health Insurance Now

Save time, avoid stress, and get covered in minutes.

COMPARE NOW
At GMP, we turn insurance headaches into peace of mind—so you can focus on your Australian adventure, not paperwork battles.
We’ve seen how bad insurance can ruin someone’s experience abroad — and we’re here to make sure that doesn’t happen to you. We prevent these disasters by offering transparent comparisons of Australia-compliant plans, expert guidance to avoid coverage gaps, and instant approval of visa-ready policies. With us, you get protection that actually works when it matters most.
Explore More Case Studies
See all
Case Study
Blog
485 Visa Health Insurance: A Complete Guide for Graduates
Need health insurance for your 485 visa? Learn about OVHC, coverage types, switching from OSHC, and how to choose the best policy for your needs.
485 Visa Health Insurance
OVHC
Visa Condition 8501
Compare Health Insurance
Case Study
Blog
Why Choosing Australian Health Insurance Makes Claims Simple for Visitors?
Discover why choosing Australian visitor health insurance ensures faster claims, local support, and financial peace of mind during medical emergencies.
Australian Visitor Health Insurance
Visitor Health Cover Australia
OVHC
Health Insurance Claim Australia
Send Us a Message