A Guide to Long Stay Travel Insurance for Australia

There's a lot to check off your to-do list when planning a long term trip to Australia.

This top destination for long term travelers draws students, temporary workers, and even those looking to relocate Down Under.

Regardless of which bracket you fit into, there's one crucial thing you need to consider: long stay travel insurance for Australia.

In this guide, we're going to share information like:

• Why long stay travel insurance for Australia is essential.
• What you can typically expect it to cover.
• How to choose the best policy for your needs.
• Where to find the best long stay travel insurance.

Let’s dive in!

Why do you need long stay travel insurance for Australia?

You'll probably be glad to hear that Australia has excellent healthcare, but unfortunately, it can be extremely expensive for foreigners.

The Australian healthcare system provides free or low-cost medical services to its citizens and qualifying residents. However, this subsidization isn't available for most foreigners.

Some foreigners qualify for specific medical treatment through Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (also called RHCAs). This agreement allows citizens of these countries to tap into Australia's local healthcare system for basic medical treatments, but it doesn't cover everything.

Citizens of Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Ireland, Slovenia, Sweden, and the UK have RHCAs.

Even if you are a citizen of a country that has an agreement with Australia, long stay travel insurance is still recommended because it ensures that:

• You're covered for emergency medical costs, including hospitalization and necessary emergency operations.
• You can be safely medically evacuated, either to a hospital equipped to treat you or even back home if deemed necessary.
• You have a 24/7 line of expert support and travel assistance while you're abroad.

What does long stay travel insurance for Australia cover?

It depends entirely on the policy that you choose. Generally speaking, long stay travel insurance covers emergency medical costs at a minimum.

Different insurance providers can provide different levels of coverage, making it very important to read all of the policy details before you hit purchase.

A good long-term travel insurance policy should provide you with broad coverage to keep you safe during your extended stay. Here are some of the different levels of coverage you can expect to see.

1. Emergency medical coverage

• Costs associated with emergencies (such as a broken bone).
• Hospitalization during a medical emergency.
• Emergency medical evacuation.
• Repatriation (in case you need to be sent home due to a serious illness or accident).
• Repatriation of mortal remains (in the very unfortunate event of a death abroad).
• Some policies cover COVID-19 and other pandemics/epidemics.

Different providers may vary on the coverage that they offer, but emergency medical is at the core of all travel insurance.

2. Sports (search and rescue)

• If you're planning to hike, bike, or do another athletic activity while in Australia, search and rescue coverage is essential.
• If you get lost, injured, or stuck during an activity, search and rescue costs may be covered depending on the policy.

3. Lost or stolen passport and other essential papers

• If you lost your passport or other essential documents, or they're stolen, your long stay travel insurance can assist.

4. Legal

• Legal assistance abroad.
• Advance of bail.
• Legal fees abroad.

This can be a lifesaver when traveling to a country where you're not as familiar with the legal system, especially if you're planning to stay long term.

5. 24/7 Assistance

When you purchase a travel insurance policy, you don't just have the coverage listed. You also typically have 24/7 support and travel assistance from travel experts.

How to choose the best long stay travel insurance for Australia

Choosing the right travel insurance for your extended trip in Australia can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help.

With over 14 years of experience in the travel sector, we know a thing or two about choosing the coverage best for you. There are a few things you should always remember when you're choosing a policy.

Meet any visa or program requirements

If you're spending an extended amount of time in Australia, you likely have a visa, company, university or other formal process to abide by.

Make sure that any insurance policy you choose meets the minimum requirements laid out (if applicable).

Ease of purchase

When choosing which insurance is the best option, it's important to consider ease of purchase.

Companies like Insurte offer a 100% digital experience, from insurance comparison to purchase to your insurance certificate.

Simple processes can help when you're planning a big trip, as you can easily check off another line item, decreasing any travel planning stress!

Compare policies for long term stays

Make sure you compare different policies and that the one you choose meets all of the requirements you have, whether those requirements are set by you or a company, university, visa, etc.

Also, it's important to keep in mind that not all travel insurance policies offer long term coverage. Mutuaide through Insurte offers long stay travel insurance.

Look at trip maximums

While some travel insurance covers you for a long time, it may have trip maximums. When you're comparing insurance options, make sure to check trip maximums so you're certain you can be covered for the entire length of your trip.

How much does long stay travel insurance for Australia cost?

The cost of insurance depends on several factors, including the duration of your trip, what kind of coverage you'd like, and how many people need to be covered.

Policies usually start at a few dollars a day, though some long stay travel insurance policies are offered at a flat rate.

Is long stay travel insurance for Australia worth it?

Absolutely! Whether you’re studying, working, or anything else, getting long term travel insurance is a must. It protects you from unexpected costs, gives you peace of mind, and ensures you can fully enjoy your adventure - from Sydney to Melbourne or wherever it is you're traveling to.

FAQs: Long stay travel insurance for Australia