If you are planning to live in Australia for the sake of work, study, or other reasons, having proper insurance will protect you from unexpected events. We all know that Moving to Australia can be exciting, but getting the right insurance is super important.
That is why we have carefully gathered relevant information that will guide you through the process of applying for insurance as an immigrant in Australia.
Australia Insurance for Immigrants
Before jumping into the application process, it is very important to understand and know the types of insurance that are available so you can know the ones you might need.
Here are the main types of insurance in Australia:
1. Health Insurance
As they say, health is wealth. This type of insurance Covers medical expenses in case you fall ill or have any health challenges while you are staying in Australia
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2. Car Insurance
Second on our list is car insurance. This type of insurance is important and necessary if you plan to drive while staying in Australia.
3. Home and Contents Insurance
Over the years, houses have been burnt down into ashes, and people lose their property in the process. We know you do not wish that for yourself. That is why home and content insurance exists. With this type of insurance, you can be 100% sure that your property stays safe.
4. Travel Insurance
Last on the list is the Travel Insurance. This type of insurance is Useful for covering travel-related risks.
How to Apply for Australia Insurance for Immigrants
Step 1: Find The Best Insurance Company
Finding the best insurance company is the first step one must take when applying.
With the availability of your laptop and mobile devices, you can do this online by visiting insurance company websites.
Below are some of the most popular insurance companies you can find in Australia. They include;
- Medibank
- Bupa
- AAMI
- Allianz
While doing your research online, you might find it confusing to know which insurance company fits your description.
In order to not be in a state of dilemma, you need to pay more attention to the reviews these Insurance Companies get and also, you need to compare their coverage and cost. This will help you decide which insurance is best for your needs.
Step 2: Check Visa Requirements
As an Immigrant, some insurance companies require visas when applying. That’s why you need to look out for the visa requirements each insurance company in Australia demands.
For example, if you are on a student visa, you must have an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Always remember to check the requirements for your visa type on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
Step 3: Upload Necessary Documents
To apply for insurance, you will need to gather some important documents;
- Passport
- Visa details
- Proof of residency (like a lease agreement)
- Health records (for health insurance)
Having these documents ready will make the application process smooth and faster
Step 4: Apply for Insurance
After comparing and choosing the best insurance company, it is time to apply. Most insurance companies allow you to apply online.
All you have to do is to carefully follow the instructions on the insurance website you have chosen and fill out the application form.
Also, you will need to provide your personal details and the documents that are required
Step 5: Make Payments
After you have filled out the form online,
You will need to pay for the insurance. Most companies offer various payment options, such as monthly or annual payment.
Ensure that you choose the option that works best for you and make your payment on time.
Frequently Asked Question
1. Is Healthcare Free in Australia for Immigrants?
Immigrants in Australia who aren’t permanent residents must bear their healthcare costs. This includes expatriates in Australia on most work visas. People moving to Australia should obtain their own private global health insurance policy to cover their healthcare costs.
2. Which Insurance is Best for International Students in Australia?
The Australian government designed Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to assist international students in covering their medical and hospital care while studying in Australia. This health cover is provided for international students who don’t have access to the Australian Public Health Care.
3. How Much is Health Insurance in Australia for International Students?
The cost of OSHC varies depending on the required cover type. The lowest cost for minimum cover is AUD$478 for 12 months of single coverage, $2,600 for 12 months of couples coverage, and $4,200 for 12 months of family coverage.
4. How Much Do Australians Pay for Health Insurance?
The average cost of combined hospital and extra health insurance for a single person is:
- Young person’ under 36 years old – $3,017 a year (about $251/month)
- Established person’ between 36 and 59 – $3,456 a year (about $288/mth)
- Mature person’ aged 60-plus – $3,829 a year (about $319/month).
5. Do You Need Health Insurance for an Australian Visa?
To be granted a 482 visa or 485 visa for Australia, you must purchase a suitable level of health coverage. Medibank offers Working Visa Health Cover, which is 100 percent compliant for these visas.
Purchasing health insurance isn’t mandatory for 417 visas, but it is recommended to obtain coverage anyway.
6. Can I Stay in Australia Without Health Insurance?
Health insurance is required for any type of visitor visa to be granted if your country does not have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia. However, the Australian government strongly recommends that all visitors take out private health insurance before they travel.
We hope this article has shown you possible ways that you can apply for Australian insurance as an immigrant.
Remember, Applying for insurance as an immigrant in Australia can be so tasking at first. But, by following these steps, you can easily find the right insurance coverage for your needs.
