OSHC to OVHC for 485 Visa
Graduates moving from a Student visa to a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) commonly need to review their health insurance. OSHC is designed for international students, while many 485 visa holders move to a suitable OVHC or worker health insurance product.
What is the difference between OSHC and OVHC?
| Cover | Generally designed for | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| OSHC | International students holding or applying for a Student visa. | Your OSHC end date and whether it remains appropriate during your visa transition. |
| OVHC / worker cover | Eligible visitors and temporary workers, depending on the product. | Whether the exact policy is suitable for your 485 visa circumstances and conditions. |
When should you change from OSHC to OVHC?
There is no single changeover date that applies to everyone. Check your current OSHC end date, your visa status and the start date of the replacement policy. The objective is to maintain appropriate cover and avoid an unintended gap.
How to move from OSHC to 485 health insurance
Check your OSHC
Confirm the policy end date and what cover you currently hold.
Compare 485 cover
Compare suitable OVHC or worker products, not just the monthly premium.
Choose a start date
Coordinate the replacement policy so there is no unintended break in appropriate cover.
Compare 485 Visa Health Insurance
What should you compare before switching?
- Suitability for your visa circumstances and condition 8501 where applicable.
- Hospital services and exclusions.
- GP and specialist benefits.
- Hospital excess and co-payments.
- Waiting periods, including pre-existing conditions and pregnancy where relevant.
- Prescription medicine benefits and limits.
- Current premium and available promotions.
Do waiting periods transfer when changing insurance?
Waiting-period rules can vary by insurer, product and the type of benefit. Do not assume all waiting periods will automatically transfer or be waived. Ask the new insurer how previous membership is treated before cancelling your existing policy.
Should you cancel OSHC before buying OVHC?
It is generally better to establish when your replacement cover should start before cancelling existing cover. Check the terms of both policies and your visa circumstances so you do not accidentally create a period without appropriate health insurance.
What records should you keep?
Keep your insurance certificate, policy number, start and end dates and any correspondence relating to your change of cover. These records can help you demonstrate the insurance arrangements you held during your visa transition.