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The 403 visa is a temporary visa that allows individuals to temporarily live and work in Australia in roles that improve Australia's international relations. This can include anything from a foreign language teacher or government representative to a domestic worker for a diplomat. Costs start from $310, there are specific healthcare requirements and you can apply for the visa in and outside of Australia depending on the stream you apply through.
The 403 visa can be applied for under any of the following streams:
While each stream may differ slightly in its requirements, there are several requirements that apply to all visas. These include:
For those on the 403 visa, you won't be able to do work that is not related to the role the visa was granted for. If you do stop work, you will have to leave Australia. This visa also comes with an 8503 condition which means you won't be able to lodge an application for another temporary visa.
You also won't be able to stay if you don't have sufficient health insurance in place.
Australia has a public healthcare system called Medicare. It helps pay for things like medically necessary treatment, surgery and prescriptions by covering a percentage of the costs. However, it is only available to Australian citizens and residents.
As a result, many migrants and temporary visitors are not eligible for Medicare so have to find another way to meet the healthcare requirements set out by their visa. This is where overseas visitors health cover (OVHC) comes in. It provides temporary residents and visitors with health insurance that meets the necessary healthcare requirements set out by the Department of Home Affairs. Basic cover generally costs around $70 to $80 a month and can give you access to cover such as public hospital, private hospital, ambulance and maternity services.
Pricing is based on a single live in the State of New South Wales on a visa and is not from a country that Australia has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with and is not eligible for cover under Medicare. Prices are accurate for 2020 but are subject to change.
If you are from one of the 11 countries Australia has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with, you will have access to Medicare services that meet the 403 healthcare requirements. Be sure to apply for Medicare when you arrive as you'll need this to adhere to the rules and requirements of your visa.
Alternatively, if you are not from an RHCA country, or you simply want more robust healthcare, you can get overseas visitors health cover. Comprehensive policies can cover you for services that include hospital and out of hospital care, from surgery to dental care.
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