Yes ! One-way travel insurance is a smart and affordable way to protect yourself for your travel , especially if you are planning to migrate to Australia for work, study, or to settle permanently.
Many newcomers to Australia overlook this insurance. But it plays a crucial role during the transition period, before you’re eligible for Medicare or have arranged private health insurance or Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC).
What Is One Way Travel Insurance?
Unlike return-trip policies, one way travel insurance is tailored for people relocating permanently or on a long-term visa. It offers protection against unexpected events like emergency medical treatment, trip disruptions, or lost belongings from your departure until you are settled after arrival in Australia.
Important: This cover is not a replacement for private health insurance. It’s a temporary safety net designed to protect you during the initial stage of your journey particularly valuable for permanent residents, international students, skilled workers, and other visa holders.
Why You Should Consider It
You may need this insurance if:
- You are planning to migrate to Australia and need protection until local systems are in place.
- You are unsure how long it’ll take to access Medicare or secure visitor health insurance (OVHC).
- You are carrying valuable belongings like laptops, cameras, or documents.
- Your home country (e.g., India, China, the Philippines) does not have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia.
- You are unsure how different policies apply to various visa holders.
Coverage Rules Vary, Read the Fine Print
Some countries’ travel insurance covers only up to the point you land or clear immigration. The terms can vary significantly depending on the insurer and your country of origin.
Example: Insurance cover shall cease 72 hours after the time you first leave the immigration control of your final destination country or at the expiry date of this insurance, whichever is sooner.
That’s why it’s crucial to:
- Review the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
- Understand what happens post arrival in Australia.
- Know how long you are covered and what’s excluded.
What is Covered in one way Travel Insurance
- Emergency medical care shortly before and after arrival.
- Loss or damage of luggage and personal items.
- Trip interruptions or last-minute cancellations.
- Cover for high-value goods during your move.
What is not covered in one way Travel Insurance Typically Not Covered
- Ongoing treatment once you’ve settled.
- Costs after the policy term (often 12 months, with some allowing extensions).
- Undeclared pre-existing medical conditions.
Important Checklist Before You Buy
- Declare all pre-existing conditions clearly.
- Check whether the policy is extendable or modifiable.
- Understand what to do during a medical emergency, know if your insurer pays upfront or reimburses.
- Be clear on what’s included, what’s not, and how to claim.
Visa-Specific Health Cover Still Required
If you are arriving on a student visa, skilled migration visa, or sponsored work visa, one-way travel insurance is not a substitute for the mandatory health cover (OVHC/OSHC) required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
This insurance is simply an additional layer of protection, useful during transit and the initial days or weeks of your stay.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to Australia is exciting but it also comes with a lot of planning. Whether you’re arriving on a temporary visa or settling long term, one way travel insurance offers valuable peace of mind.
It helps newcomers to Australia protect their health, belongings, and finances during that vulnerable period, before you are fully integrated into the local system.
Please note
This article provides general information only and does not take into account your personal circumstances. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and consult with the insurer or advisor before purchasing a policy. Coverage terms vary by country, provider, and visa status.
