We hope you’ve enjoyed your time in Australia. Have you decided on what you’ll do next?
There are some options open to you, so we’ve put together some of the most common ones.
Don’t forget, if you’re not sure what you’ll do next, why not get in touch and we can chat through your options together
Your options
Which ever option you’re thinking of taking, remember that we’re here to help – so don’t be shy to get in touch with us.
And If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed with the options, we’ve got some great resources to help bring a bit of calm to your day here.
Why stay covered with Bupa?
Because staying covered should be a priority.
We can help with a range of covers to suit your budget or situation.
Because staying healthy is important.
We’ll help reduce your out of pocket costs for GP visits. All Bupa OVC and OSHC include coverage for GP (doctor) visits in case you get sick.
Member Rewards
Treat yourself to retail, entertainment and travel offers as well as fitness and wellness offers to support your health journey. Or simply stock up on everyday essentials. Your rewards, your choice. Learn more about Member Rewards.
Common questions
We’ve compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions. If your question isn’t there, just get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer it.
Moving to Bupa OVC
What happens to my OSHC if I’m applying for OVC?
To apply for a working visa in Australia, you need to submit your visa verification letter to confirm that you have OVC. While you’re waiting for the result of your working visa application, you’ll need to ensure your student visa and OSHC are valid and covering this period (that means you may have two health covers at the same time).
When your new working visa has been granted, simply email us a copy of your Visa Grant Notice from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to: students@bupa.com.au and we’ll update the start date of your Overseas Visitors Cover (OVC) to align with your new Visa grant date. We’ll also backdate and refund your Bupa OSHC till the start of your new OVC cover
If I’ve got two covers, which one should I use if I need medical help?
When you’re holding two covers at the same time, we recommend you continue to use your old cover until it expires.
I’m with another insurer or I’ve just left another insurer. How should I join?
It’s easy. Simply choose the cover that suits your needs, contact us and then we'll do the rest.
You won’t have to re-serve waiting periods for the same treatments+ and will be able to enjoy continuous cover.^
+ When switching to Bupa on an equivalent or lower level of cover within 60 days of cover end date with old health fund. ^ If you switch within 60 days and your new Bupa policy includes the same services as your old policy, you will have continuity of cover. Any benefits already paid by your old policy will count towards lifetime limits and yearly limits on extras. If your new level of cover is higher than your old policy, the lower benefit (including different excess levels) will apply immediately. In this case you will be eligible for any new benefits or services on your new Bupa policy once waiting period has been served.
How do I receive my health insurance visa letter?
Once you’ve applied for Bupa's overseas visitors cover, you’ll receive your health insurance visa letter to support your visa application, by email.
Do I need OSHC while I’m not studying during the semester break?
Yes, you need to have OSHC for the whole of your stay in Australia, even if you’re currently on a semester break with no classes.
If I’m moving from Bupa OSHC to Bupa OVC, will I need a new membership card?
As these are two different types of cover offered by Bupa, you’ll be receiving a new membership card, as well as a new membership number.
What about my myBupa account? Can I use the same one?
As you’ll be receiving a new membership number, you’ll need to create a new myBupa account as your cover has changed. Make sure you create a new account so you can have 24/7 access to your membership.
Waiting periods
I’ve already served waiting periods for some services covered, do I need to wait again this time?
No, we’ll take into account the waiting periods you’ve already served on your previous cover for any of the same services.
But, if you’ve got new services that weren’t previously covered, then yes, you’ll need to serve those waiting periods.
I’m moving from Bupa OSHC to Bupa OVC, how do I transfer the waiting periods?
As you’re moving between different Bupa covers, we’ll automatically transfer any applicable waiting periods.
If I’m moving from Bupa OSHC, are there any additional medical services on Bupa OVC where I’ll need to serve waiting periods?
All medical services covered by your Bupa OSHC are also covered by Bupa OVC. You’ll be able to use your medical services immediately, once you’ve moved to Bupa OVC
If you’re moving from another fund’s OSHC to Bupa OVC, contact us to find out more.
I’m moving from another health insurance provider to Bupa OVC, do I need to transfer the waiting periods?
When you move from your previous provider, they’ll provide you with a Clearance Certificate, which you’ll send to us to look after your move and we’ll waive any applicable waiting periods.
Let us know which cover you’d like to join and contact us. We’ll look after the rest.
Your Bupa OVC Policy
Can I add someone to my policy?
Yes! Our policies have options for couples or families. Contact us if you’d like to add them to your cover.
Will Bupa OVC cover me for dental or optical visits?
Yes – but you’ll need to have both Hospital and Extras cover. Talk to us to find out more.
Can I choose to pay monthly/fortnightly for OVC?
Yes, you’re able to set up monthly or fortnightly direct debit to pay for your premiums, after you’ve paid your first month in full.