Australia’s Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) is a popular choice for tourists, business visitors, and those visiting family. However, one critical question many travelers ask is: Can you purchase health insurance after arriving in Australia on this visa? The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on several factors, including visa conditions, insurance providers, and personal circumstances.

Understanding the 600 Visa and Health Insurance Requirements

The Subclass 600 Visa allows temporary stays in Australia for tourism, business, or family visits. While health insurance isn’t always a mandatory requirement for this visa, it’s highly recommended—especially for older travelers or those with pre-existing conditions.

Is Health Insurance Mandatory for a 600 Visa?

Unlike student visas (Subclass 500) or temporary work visas (Subclass 482), the 600 Visa doesn’t universally require health insurance. However:
- If you’re from a country without a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA), you won’t have access to Medicare.
- If you’re over 75, you must provide proof of adequate health insurance before your visa is granted.
- If you’re applying for a long-stay visitor visa (12+ months), insurance may be required.

Even if not mandatory, traveling without insurance is risky. Medical costs in Australia can be exorbitant, and a single hospital visit could lead to financial strain.

Can You Buy Insurance After Arrival?

Yes, you can purchase health insurance after arriving in Australia, but there are key considerations:

1. Waiting Periods

Many Australian health insurers impose waiting periods for certain services, such as:
- Pre-existing conditions (often 12 months)
- Pregnancy-related treatments (usually 12 months)
- Major surgeries (varies by provider)

If you buy insurance after arrival, you may face delays before full coverage kicks in.

2. Visa Conditions and Extensions

If you plan to extend your stay, some visa extensions require proof of health insurance at the time of application. Waiting too long to purchase a policy could complicate future visa processes.

3. Coverage Gaps

If you arrive uninsured and experience a medical emergency before securing coverage, you’ll be responsible for all costs. Some insurers may deny claims for conditions that manifest before policy activation.

Best Health Insurance Options for 600 Visa Holders

Several insurers cater to temporary visa holders, including:

1. Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC)

OVHC is designed for non-residents and provides coverage similar to Medicare. Policies vary in coverage levels, from basic hospital care to comprehensive plans.

2. Travel Insurance with Medical Coverage

Some international travel insurance policies include medical benefits. However, these are often short-term solutions (e.g., 3-6 months) and may not meet long-term visa requirements.

3. Private Health Insurance

If you’re staying long-term, private health insurance (PHI) can offer broader coverage, including extras like dental and optical.

How to Choose the Right Policy

When selecting health insurance for your 600 Visa, consider:

1. Coverage Scope

• Does it include hospitalization, ambulance services, and GP visits?
• Are pre-existing conditions covered?

2. Cost vs. Benefits

• Compare premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.
• Check if the insurer has direct billing arrangements with hospitals.

3. Compliance with Visa Rules

• If extending your visa, ensure the policy meets Department of Home Affairs requirements.

Real-World Scenarios

Case 1: The Uninsured Tourist

A traveler on a 600 Visa skipped insurance to save money. After a minor accident, they faced a $5,000 hospital bill. Purchasing insurance afterward didn’t cover the incident.

Case 2: The Proactive Visitor

Another visitor bought OVHC before arrival. When they needed emergency surgery, the insurer covered 90% of the costs, saving them thousands.

Final Tips for 600 Visa Holders

• Buy insurance before traveling to avoid coverage gaps.
• Read policy fine print—especially exclusions and waiting periods.
• Consider long-term stays—some insurers offer discounts for annual policies.

Navigating health insurance on a 600 Visa can be complex, but being informed ensures you stay protected in Australia’s high-cost healthcare system.