OSHC for Couples and Families in Australia: What International Students Should Know

The process of moving to Australia to study can be a significant undertaking, particularly if you are moving with your partner and/or children. In addition to housing, selecting a university and making travel arrangements, you should also be familiar with healthcare and health insurance.

Typically, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is compulsory for international students who hold an Australian Student visa (subclass 190) and is subject to the rules and exemptions in place. If the family is travelling with you, make sure to confirm that your insurance policy includes everyone who will be with you.

It is important to know the difference between single travel medical, couple and family cover to make an informed choice before you travel. 

What Is OSHC?

OSHC, also known as Overseas Student Health Cover, is health insurance for eligible overseas students in Australia. It contributes towards the cost of some medical and hospital bills, depending on the benefits and conditions of the policy.

OSHC is not the same as full coverage private health insurance. Different products may have different benefits, exclusions and out-of-pocket costs.

When travelling with a partner or children it is especially important to purchase the correct type of policy. Not all of the family members may need the same policy. 

What Is the Difference Between Single, Couple and Family OSHC?

OSHC providers have various categories of policy for various scenarios. The actual terms and conditions may differ and the specific names will vary; please make sure to review the provider's product information before purchasing. 

Single OSHC

Single cover typically provides for one student that is eligible.

While it may be appropriate if travelling to Australia by yourself and are not travelling with a partner or dependent children under your insurance policy, it is not suitable if you do.

Before purchase, check the dates of coverage and if the policy is suitable to your specific visa needs. 

Couple OSHC

Couple cover is usually provided for the student and their partner, on the assumption that they are both eligible students, according to the definition of the insurer and the conditions of the policy.

If you are bringing your spouse or partner to Australia, consider the cost and advantages of couple cover and alternatives available. Review the definition of eligible partner provided by the insurer and the evidence that might be asked for.

When sharing an address or traveling together, do not presume that a policy automatically extends to them. 

Family OSHC

Eligible student travelling with a partner and dependent children may be considered for family cover.

For instance, if a student is relocating to Melbourne with his or her spouse and young child, he or she must see if the chosen policy includes cover for the three people for the specified time.

The amount of premium will vary according to the insurance company and the type and extent of coverage. Look at the total cost, not the benefits that are the same in each family policy. 

How Can You Choose the Right Cover for Your Family?

When you begin by considering your family's realities, the decision to choose OSHC is easier. 

1. Determine all those requiring cover. Identify the student, partner and dependent children, if applicable, who might need to be included. 

2. Check eligibility. Inquire from the insurance provider which family relations are eligible and what paperwork is essential. 

3. Compare total premiums. Check out the cost of the policy for the entire period of need, not policies with different start and end dates. 

4. Check on benefits and drawbacks. Know what medical services might be covered and where any expenses not covered by the insurance might be incurred. 

5. Confirm policy dates. Ensure the cover is suitable to your situation and the visa requirements. 

6. Ask about changes. If your family situation changes after you buy the policy, notify the insurance company to see if the policy can be modified. 

It is advisable to do these steps before leaving the country to avoid confusion on arrival in Australia. 

What Healthcare Services May OSHC Cover?

All approved OSHC policies must comply with the minimum requirements that are applicable and the benefits and conditions available will differ.

Eligible services are the benefits that may be covered under the policy, and include services such as: 

• General practitioner consultations
• Certain hospital treatments
• Ambulance services (with policy conditions)
• Lack of prescription medicine benefits.
• Specialist consultations and diagnostic services that are covered. 

Not every policy pays 100% of the healthcare provider's charge. Some services may have waiting periods, exclusions or limits, and a gap payment may be due.

Basic OSHC does not usually cover routine dental, optical and physiotherapy services. If these services are important to your family, inquire about extra coverage and the terms. 

What Documents Might You Need?

If cover is being arranged for a partner and/or children, an insurer may request information to establish who is being covered by the policy and whether the individual(s) are eligible for cover under the policy.

Depending on the situation, helpful documents could be: 

• Passport and personal information
• This is information regarding student visa or visa application.
• Documenting the partner or relationship (where required),
• Information on children in care. Information on dependent children.
• Information about the existing OSHC membership (if applicable). 

It will vary by the provider. When sending sensitive documents, reach out to the insurer and take the insurer's process. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Family cover is a crucial aspect of your travel arrangements as an international student that you might forget. Some of the checks can help to make the procedure more understandable.

Picking a policy on its price alone: A cheap premium does not mean that the policy is suitable. Check the advantages, requirements and potential limitations.

Losing a family member: Double check who is covered by the policy and if the cover category is appropriate.

When not in the coverage period: Ensure there are no required start and end dates when insuring or changing coverages.

If all of the services are covered: Discuss the exclusions and inquire about specific health care requirements.

Terminating cover prematurely: If you need to change cover, check your continuing insurance needs first and ensure that replacement cover is in place if required. 

Where Can You Compare Couple and Family OSHC Plans?

Policy comparisons can help you better understand the differences in premiums, benefits and conditions between different insurers.

This guide can be used to compare OSHC couple and family plans if you are considering a single, couple and family plan.

Compare, then check the insurer's official product information to ensure your situation is covered, and that you can expect those costs and benefits. 

Final Thoughts

If you plan on studying in Australia with a partner or children, then you need to make additional arrangements and health insurance is one of these.

Single, couple and family OSHC policies are for different purposes. The correct choice will rely on who requires cover, the visa requirements such as the required visa, coverage period and the advantages of the policy and conditions.

When buying a plan, ensure that the person who is going to be covered and compare the overall premium and then ask the provider any questions that you may have, which can impact your family.

This careful consideration, prior to departure, will enable you to make an informed decision and start your journey of Australian study with increased confidence.