Quick Answer: As a migrant living in Australia, you are generally eligible to purchase travel insurance from any Australian provider regardless of your visa type as long as you are a permanent or temporary resident departing from Australia. Providers like Cover-More, Allianz, Fast Cover, and 1Cover all cater well to migrants. Read on for a full breakdown.
Why Migrants in Australia Need Travel Insurance
Australia is home to millions of migrants from skilled workers and international students to permanent residents who have recently settled down Under. Whether you are flying home to visit family in India, the Philippines, the UK, China, or South Africa, or taking a holiday abroad, travel insurance is not just sensible in many cases it can be the difference between a manageable mishap and a financial catastrophe.
Unlike Australian citizens who may have reciprocal health agreements with a handful of countries, many migrants do not have access to Medicare while overseas. A single medical evacuation from Bali or a hospital admission in the United States can cost tens of thousands of dollars without the right cover in place.
There is also the matter of trip cancellations. Migrants often travel for important family events weddings, funerals, or caring for elderly parents where the cost of flights is high and rescheduling is not always possible. Comprehensive travel insurance protects your investment and gives you peace of mind no matter where in the world you are heading.
Does Your Visa Affect Your Coverage?
This is one of the most common questions migrants ask, and the short answer is: your visa type affects your Medicare eligibility in Australia, but it generally does not prevent you from purchasing or holding travel insurance from an Australian provider. However, there are some important nuances to be aware of.
| Visa Type | Can Buy AU Travel Insurance? | Medicare Covered? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent Resident (PR) | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | Treated like a citizen by most insurers |
| Skilled Visa (482/494) | ✔ Yes | ⚠ Partial (RHCA countries) | Confirm insurer accepts temporary residents |
| Student Visa (500) | ✔ Yes | ✗ No | OSHC covers you in AU; travel insurance needed for overseas trips |
| Partner/Spouse Visa | ✔ Yes | ⚠ Depends on stage | Most insurers are happy to cover |
| Working Holiday (417/462) | ✔ Yes | ✗ Limited | Some providers offer WHV-specific policies |
| Tourist/Visitor Visa | ⚠ Limited options | ✗ No | Policies must be purchased before arriving in AU |
Important: Always disclose your visa status and country of birth when purchasing travel insurance. Failure to do so could invalidate your claim. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, declare them upfront — most Australian insurers have a straightforward online assessment process.
Top Travel Insurance Providers in Australia for Migrants
Below is our curated list of the leading travel insurance players operating in Australia. All of these providers are AFSL-licensed and regulated by ASIC. Most are available to both Australian citizens and migrants holding eligible visa types.
Allianz Australia – Global Giant
Backed by the global Allianz Group, this provider is one of Australia’s most trusted insurers. Excellent for comprehensive international cover including high-risk destinations. Strong claims support and 24/7 emergency assistance.
Cover-More (Zurich)- Market Leader
One of Australia’s most recognised travel insurers, Cover-More is underwritten by Zurich Financial Services and is particularly popular for its straightforward medical cover and annual multi-trip options — ideal for frequent migrant travellers.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance – Clean & Simple
Known for plain-English policies and strong customer satisfaction scores. SCTI is a great option for migrants who want straightforward, no-nonsense cover without excessive fine print. Medical-focused plans available.
Fast Cover – 🏆 Award-Winning
An Australian-owned and operated insurer, Fast Cover has won ProductReview.com.au’s Travel Insurance Award multiple years running (2022–2025). Known for flexibility, competitive pricing, and responsive customer service.
1Cover
One of Australia’s longest-established travel insurers, 1Cover is recognised for outstanding value — particularly for senior migrants and those with pre-existing conditions. Multiple Mozo award winner in 2025.
InsureandGo – Budget Friendly
A solid budget option covering over 120 activities, recognised in Finder’s 2025 top picks and Mozo’s Ski Travel Insurance awards. Good fit for migrants who enjoy adventure travel or outdoor sports.
Tick Travel Insurance – Best Domestic
Named best domestic travel insurance provider in Finder’s 2025 Awards. Offers free coverage for children under 18 — making it excellent for migrant families travelling within Australia or back home with kids in tow.
Travel Insurance Saver- 🏆 Best Value 2025
Named “Best Travel Insurer” by Mozo for 2025, earning Exceptional Value awards across Comprehensive, Annual Multi-Trip, and Cruise categories. A strong pick for migrants seeking maximum value.
Freely – APP- Based
A modern, app-based insurer that lets you customise and adjust cover even after departure. Ideal for tech-savvy migrants who want flexibility for example, extending cover if a family visit runs longer than planned.
AIG Australia – Corporate Strength
Part of the American International Group global network, AIG Australia offers tailored policies with strong medical and liability cover. A reliable choice for migrants travelling for business as well as leisure.
