Medicare is Australia’s public health insurance system. If you are eligible, registering for Medicare gives you access to subsidised medical treatment, free public hospital care, and cheaper prescription medicines. This guide explains the benefits, eligibility pathways, and how to lodge an application in Australian English.
Why Enrol in Medicare?
- Public hospital services – Receive treatment as a public patient at no cost.
- Subsidised GP visits – Doctors who bulk bill can charge Medicare directly, meaning no out-of-pocket expense.
- Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) – Pay reduced prices for many prescription medicines.
- Chronic disease support – Access care plans, allied health subsidies, and screening programs.
Who Can Access Medicare?
Medicare is available to:
- Australian citizens and permanent residents
- Most New Zealand citizens in Australia
- Temporary visa holders from countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements (including the UK, Ireland, Italy, Belgium, Finland, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, and Sweden)
- Some temporary visa holders with pending permanent visa applications (e.g. Partner visa stage)
If you are unsure whether your visa class qualifies, review the latest list on the Services Australia website or seek advice from a migration professional.
Documents You Need
Bring original or certified copies of:
- Passport and current visa
- Evidence of Australian address (utility bill, bank statement)
- Identity documents (e.g. driver licence, birth certificate)
- Supporting visa paperwork (bridging visa grant letter, acknowledgement of permanent visa application)
- For reciprocal healthcare agreements, show your overseas passport and proof of enrolment in your home country’s health system.
How to Apply Step by Step
- Download the Medicare Enrolment Form (MS004).
Available via Services Australia website. - Complete the form.
Include personal details, visa information, and dependants. - Gather supporting documents.
Make certified copies if you plan to submit by post. Digital scans are acceptable for online submissions when guidance permits. - Submit your application.
- Apply online if you already have a MyGov account linked to Medicare.
- Otherwise visit a Medicare service centre or post your documents to Services Australia.
- Receive your Medicare number.
Temporary paper certificates are often issued immediately at service centres; physical cards arrive by mail within 3–4 weeks.
Adding Family Members
- You can add partners and children to the same Medicare card.
- Provide marriage certificates, birth certificates, or de facto evidence to demonstrate the relationship.
- Newborns can be registered using the Newborn Child Declaration form provided by hospitals.
Common Questions
What if I am waiting on a Partner visa?
Onshore Partner (subclass 820) applicants with a Bridging Visa A usually qualify once they have lodged the permanent stage. Bring the acknowledgement letter from the Department of Home Affairs.
Do students qualify?
International students generally use Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Students from Belgium, Italy, Norway, and some other countries with reciprocal agreements may access Medicare during their stay.
How do I update my details?
Use the Medicare online account or Express Plus Medicare app to change your address, contact number, or bank account for rebates.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Book a Medicare office appointment during quieter hours to avoid queues.
- Keep digital copies of your documents in case the Department requests additional evidence.
- Once enrolled, link Medicare to your MyGov account for easier management and claims.
- Combine your Medicare enrolment with applying for a Tax File Number (TFN) and bank account to streamline settlement tasks.
How First Migration Service Centre Can Help
Our team supports new arrivals with:
- Determining Medicare eligibility based on visa status
- Preparing evidence for Partner, Parent, or Skilled visa applications that rely on Medicare enrolment
- Coordinating timelines so your health cover aligns with visa milestones
- Providing bilingual guidance to ensure you understand your entitlements
Contact First Migration Service Centre for tailored advice as you navigate Medicare and the broader Australian healthcare system.