So, you’ve landed in Australia, your bags are unpacked, and you’re ready to start your university journey. But before you head to the beach or your first lecture, there is one critical task you must complete: activating your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

While you purchased your insurance months ago for your visa, it isn't "active" until you confirm your arrival. Without activation, you cannot access your digital membership card, find direct-billing doctors, or make a claim.

In this guide, Budget Policy walks you through the 2026 activation process for every major Australian provider.

Why Must You Activate Your OSHC?

Your OSHC is a mandatory requirement of your Student Visa (Subclass 500). However, insurers don’t automatically know the exact date you entered the country. Activating your policy:

1. Generates your Digital Membership Card: Most doctors in Australia no longer accept paper certificates; they need to see your card on your phone.
2. Enables Direct Billing: This allows you to visit a doctor without paying upfront.
3. Updates your Address: Insurers need your Australian address to process claims and (if requested) mail you a physical card.
   
   

Step-by-Step: Activation by Provider (2026 Update)

Each provider has a slightly different portal, but the logic is the same. You will need your Passport Number and your Policy Number (found on the certificate you bought through Budget Policy).

1. How to Activate Medibank OSHC & ahm OSHC

Since ahm is a subsidiary of Medibank, their processes are almost identical.

• The App: Download the Medibank OSHC or ahm OSHC app from the App Store or Google Play.
• The Process: Click "Activate Cover," enter your policy number, name, and date of birth.
• Final Step: Update your Australian mobile number and residential address. Your digital card will appear in the "Card" tab instantly.

2. How to Activate Allianz Care OSHC

Allianz uses the MyHealth app for all international students.

• The Portal: Visit the Allianz Care Australia website and click "Register/Activate."
• The Process: Enter your policy number (starting with 'POL') and your email address.
• Tip: Allianz is known for its extensive direct-billing network. Once activated, use the app’s map feature to find the nearest "cashless" clinic.

3. How to Activate Bupa OSHC

Bupa’s membership system is called myBupa.

• The Process: Register for a myBupa account online. You will need to verify your email and provide your Australian address.
• The Card: Once registered, you can download the Bupa app to access your digital card. If you prefer a plastic card, you can click "Order a physical card" within the portal, and it will arrive in 7–10 working days.

4. How to Activate nib OSHC

nib has a very high-rated app that makes activation simple.

• The Process: Go to the "nib Health" app or the nib website and select "First time logging in?".
• The Details: You will need your nib customer number and your passport.
• Benefit: nib members often get access to "nib Rewards," providing discounts on groceries and gym memberships—but only after activation!
  
  

Pro-Tips for a Smooth Activation

To avoid common errors that can delay your healthcare access, keep these tips from Budget Policy in mind:

1. Match Your Details Exactly

When registering, your name must match exactly how it appears on your Passport and Policy Certificate. If your certificate says "Johnathan" but you type "John," the system will return a "Member Not Found" error.

2. Use the Same Email

Use the same email address you used when you purchased your policy through Budget Policy. This is the primary key insurers use to link your payment to your member profile.

3. Don't Wait Until You're Sick

Many students only try to activate their OSHC when they are already standing in a doctor’s office feeling unwell. Activation can sometimes take 24 hours to process through the system. Do it the day you land!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I activate my OSHC before I arrive in Australia? No. Most systems will not allow activation until your visa start date has passed and you have physically entered Australia.

Q: What if I lost my policy number? If you bought your cover through Budget Policy, check your email inbox for your "Confirmation of Cover." If you still can't find it, contact our support team, and we can retrieve it for you.

Q: Is there a physical card? In 2026, most providers (like nib and Allianz) have moved to Digital Cards by default. They are more secure and harder to lose! You can show these on your phone at any medical clinic.

Need to Renew or Switch?

If your OSHC is expiring soon or you find that your current provider doesn't have enough direct-billing clinics in your area, you aren't stuck! You can switch providers at any time.

[Click here to compare 2026 OSHC prices on Budget Policy and see if you can save by switching today!]

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