Travel Insurance Now Mandatory: Why It Matters for Your Visa

A Safer Way to Travel 

In 2025, Australia made travel and medical insurance a mandatory requirement for all visitor visa applicants. This new rule ensures travellers are protected against emergencies, medical expenses, and unexpected disruptions while visiting the country. 

The change applies to applicants under the Visitor Visa Subclass 600 and aims to promote responsible, well-prepared tourism. 

Why Travel Insurance Is Now Required 

Australia’s visa authorities now require applicants to hold valid travel insurance before approval.  The purpose is twofold: 

1. To ensure travellers can manage potential medical or emergency costs during their stay.   

2. To reduce financial pressure on Australia’s public healthcare system for non-residents.   

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In short, insurance is no longer optional — it is proof of readiness and responsibility for every visitor entering the country. 

What Type of Coverage Do You Need? 

Not all travel insurance policies meet Australian visa requirements. To comply, your policy should include coverage for: 

Coverage Type	Purpose
Medical & Hospitalisation	Covers illness, injury, or accidents during travel.
Repatriation & Evacuation	Covers the cost of returning home during medical emergencies.
Trip Cancellation	Protects against lost expenses from cancelled bookings.
Baggage & Personal Items	Covers lost or stolen belongings.

Tip: Always read the policy wording to confirm it meets Australia’s entry requirements and covers the full duration of your trip. 

Choosing the Right Insurance Provider 

Look for policies from reputable insurers that specialise in international travel.  When comparing options, consider: 

• Worldwide coverage, including Australia   

• 24/7 emergency assistance   

• Medical evacuation support   

• Clear exclusions (e.g. pre-existing conditions)   

Tip: Avoid the cheapest policy available. Instead, choose one that prioritises medical protection and emergency response. 

Why This Requirement Benefits Travellers 

While mandatory, the new insurance rule offers peace of mind. Travellers are now protected from unexpected expenses, such as hospital visits or trip disruptions. 

It also helps maintain smoother border processing — verified travellers with full coverage are less likely to face additional checks. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Submitting policies that exclude medical coverage   

• Forgetting to include all travellers on a family policy   

• Buying short-term insurance that expires before your return flight   

• Submitting only a payment receipt instead of a full policy certificate   

Incomplete or invalid coverage can cause visa delays. Always double-check your documents before submitting. 

How Legacy Migration & Study Direction Can Help 

Legacy Migration & Study Direction (LMSD) assists travellers in completing their Australian visa requirements, including insurance verification.  Our team provides: 

• Guidance on compliant insurance policies   

• Document review before visa submission   

• Assistance with uploading and formatting insurance proof   

• Ongoing support throughout your visa application   

  
  

With LMSD, you can ensure your policy meets all Australian standards and avoid costly application delays. 

In 2025, Australia made travel insurance a mandatory part of the visa application process. Policies must include medical, emergency, and hospitalisation coverage.  Travellers who prepare early and choose the right policy can experience faster approvals and safer journeys. 

Not sure if your insurance meets visa standards?  

Find out what insurance coverage you’ll need with Legacy Migration & Study Direction.  Our team can help you review and prepare your policy before you apply. 

The information, updates, news, and advice provided are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalised guidance. For accurate advice regarding your specific migration case, we invite you to reach out to us directly by sending a message through this link: https://www.legacymigration.com.au/take-your-first-step-to-living-working-or-studying-in-australia

Migration Agents Registration Number: 1797357

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