Australia: OSHC must cover the entire stay without any gaps; lack of proof may lead to denied entry

Australia makes overseas student health insurance (OSHC) a mandatory visa requirement — it’s not optional. The policy must cover your entire stay in the country. When renewing or switching policies, there must be no lapse in coverage. If you cannot produce proof of insurance upon arrival, you may be denied entry on the spot. Family members accompanying you as dependents must each purchase their own policy.

Several thousand to tens of thousands of RMB. Purchase it once based on the length of your visa; if you’re studying for several years, buy coverage for that entire period.

According to Australian Department of Home Affairs regulations, student visa applicants and their dependents must obtain OSHC, which must remain in effect throughout their entire stay in Australia without any interruptions. The policy must be issued by an insurer approved by Australian authorities, except for applicants who qualify for exemptions. There must be no gap between the end date of one policy and the start date of a new one. Failure to provide proof of active coverage upon entry can result in denial of entry. For travelers arriving in Australia prior to their course start date, the policy start date must be set to the actual date of arrival.

If your school arranges the insurance for you, be sure to confirm the insurer’s name, the policy’s start and end dates, and the policy number — these details must be included in your visa application. Purchasing coverage for a shorter period than needed can cause issues when you apply to renew your visa; it’s better to buy coverage that extends well beyond your graduation date.

Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. Student visa (subclass 500). https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500