OVHC (Overseas Visitors Health Cover) is health insurance for people visiting or temporarily working in Australia who aren’t eligible for Medicare. It covers hospital treatment, doctor visits, and some prescription medicines. It’s required for certain visa subclasses (notably the 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visa).
What it covers
- Hospital treatment (shared ward in public hospitals)
- Doctor visits (GP and specialist consultations)
- Emergency ambulance services
- Limited prescription medicines
- Some diagnostic services
What it doesn’t cover
- Routine dental and optical care
- Physiotherapy and allied health (unless in a premium plan)
- Pre-existing conditions (can be covered with extras)
- Pregnancy (after 12-month waiting period with some policies)
- Private hospital accommodation (unless in a premium plan)
- Treatment covered by Medicare reciprocal arrangements
How to choose
Check your visa condition — some visa types (especially 482) specifically require OVHC. Compare providers and check if your employer provides it as part of your contract. If you’re from a country with a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia, you may have limited Medicare access — check what OVHC covers beyond this.