A 461 visa is a temporary visa that allows a non-New Zealand citizen who is a member of a family unit of a New Zealand citizen to live and work in Australia for up to five years. Unlike New Zealand citizens, who are eligible for Medicare (Australia's public health system), 461 visa holders are not automatically covered by Medicare and may have to pay for their own medical and hospital expenses while in Australia.
OVHC is a type of health insurance that is designed for visitors to Australia who can't use Medicare. OVHC can help you pay for medical services like hospital stays, doctors' visits, prescription medicine and ambulance services while you're in Australia.
There are two reasons why 461 visa holders will need OVHC:
The Department of Home Affairs requires 461 visa applicants to have adequate health insurance for their stay. You've got to have have health insurance that covers at least the minimum level of benefits suggested by the Department, which include:
Health care costs in Australia can be very expensive without insurance. Without OVHC, you'll have to pay for these costs out of your own pocket. With OVHC, you can reduce or avoid these costs by claiming benefits from your insurer.
There are many OVHC products available in the market, and no one is best for 461 visa holders (or for any other visa). Rather, you'll need to pick a policy that suits you. Here are a few things to consider.
Insurance can be confusing when you first arrive in Australia but only health insurance is compulsory – others can be good to have depending on your situation.
We compared dozens of Overseas Visitor Health Cover policies to find some of the best policies for visitors and tourists.
Find out what health insurance you need for the 590 Visa and how to get cover for pre-existing conditions.
Find out who is eligible for 407 Training Visa, what you need, the requirements and the restrictions.
Have you just got your permanent residency? See how you're covered for healthcare in Australia and compare your options today.
ahm offers a range of health cover choices if you’re in Australia to study. See how it stacks up.
If you incur medical or hospital expenses overseas, will your Australian private health insurance cover the cost? Find out here.
If you’re in Australia on a bridging visa, it’s important that you choose a suitable level of private health insurance cover.
Here’s how to find the right level of private health insurance cover for your needs if you reside in Australia on a 485 Temporary Graduate visa.
Find an adequate level of private health insurance to cover any medical costs incurred during your trip to Australia on a subclass 600 visa.