An Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) coverage is important for every international student moving to Australia to pursue higher studies or settle in. OSHC ensures access to affordably priced health cover plans for their visa duration.

In many cases, due to a change in study course or studying further, results in extensions of student visas. Followed by, extending OSHC policy, meaning, with an extension of student visa, you also have to extend your health cover plan.

Following is a step-by-step guide to extend your OSHC coverage hassle-free.

Why Might You Need to Extend Your OSHC Policy?

On can say anything about extending their OSHC policy however, some of the common reasons are enlisted below:

· Visa Extension: If the term of your student visa (subclass 500) is extended, you must continue with OSHC coverage by extending it too.

· Course Extension or Transfers: It is common to have a course extended or study further, for which you will have to extend your OSHC policy too.

· Personal Reasons: If you have applied or planning to applying for internships or research programs, you will need to renew or extend your OSHC.

How to Extend your OSHC Policy?

Step 1: Check Your Current OSHC Expiry Date

You must know the date on which your present OSHC policy expires. You can find this information from your OSHC membership card or your provider's official website. Knowing your expiration date will help you from coverage lapses that can lead you to unpredictable medical expenses or unfulfilled visa requirements.

Step 2: Know the Required Extension Period

After you have known when your current OSHC policy expires, find out how much more coverage you will need for the rest of your stay. Will the current coverage be enough or would you like to add some medical benefits. For better understanding, you can consult your provider, compare new plans and benefits, and make up your mind on a new one.

Step 3: Contact Your OSHC Provider

Now, get in touch with your current OSHC provider to discuss possible options for OSHC extension. Some top OSHC providers in Australia are as follows:

· BUPA

· Medibank

· NIB

· Allianz Care Australia

With the help of your provider, you can get information on your existing or new OSHC policy including new changes, waiting periods, claim process, etc.

Step 4: Submit the OSHC Extension Application

Next step involves applying for the extension after you have known new updates and terms of your student visa as well as OSHC policy. To simplify this process, providers have come up with an online platform - usually their websites, where you can do the needful at the comfort of your home. Some of the key things you must keep handy are:

· Student Visa Details: Your updated student visa information.

· Proof of Enrolment: Enrolment details to validate your extended course of study or likewise.

· Payment Information: Many providers accept bank transfers or direct payments using credit/debit cards.

Step 5: Confirm Your Updated OSHC Policy and Documentation

Make sure you get your new OSHC policy details on time and after that, crosscheck it thoroughly. Keep a copy of your updated OSHC certificate with you, which will highlight the revised coverage term. Reason being, whenever you are asked for your student visa or health cover details, you should have this information handy.

Step 6: Inform the Department of Home Affairs (If Needed)

You may also let the Department of Home and Affairs in Australia know about your extended stay as well as extended OSHC policy. This ensures that your application for a student visa meet the standards of Australia as set by the government and you intent to oblige by the rules and regulations.

Key Takeaways

Extending your OSHC policy in Australia is a simplified and hassle-free process given that you are already prepared for everything. You can easily focus on your studies without having to worry about expensive medical bills. In addition, your stay in Australia will be more relaxing knowing that you have adequate amount of health coverage at your hands.

Therefore, if you are looking for extending OSHC policy, let Budget Policy guide you through the process. Contact us today to know more.