BlueZone / Student Essentials / Health insurance
Health insurance: what you must buy for each country
Health cover is a visa condition in several countries. Know what is included, what is not and how to claim.
Last reviewed 30 September 2026. Figures are checked against the sources listed at the bottom of the page.
Talk to a counsellorWhat each destination requires
| Destination | Requirement | Cost guide |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Immigration Health Surcharge paid with the visa application, giving NHS access | £776 per year of visa, plus part-year amounts |
| Australia | Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the whole stay, bought before the visa | Varies by provider and length; budget about A$500 to A$700 per year for a single student |
| Canada | Provincial plan or university plan, depending on province | Ontario UHIP reported at C$948 for 2026-27; other provinces and universities differ |
| New Zealand | Approved medical and travel insurance for the whole stay | Varies by provider |
| Ireland | Private medical insurance | Varies by provider |
| United States | University health plan or an approved alternative | Often US$2,000 to US$4,000 per year, varies widely |
| Dubai and UAE | UAE-approved health insurance, usually arranged through the university | Varies by plan and emirate |
| Italy | Health insurance valid in Italy, about €30,000 minimum for the visa; can join the national health service after arrival | Varies by provider |
| France | French social security enrolment for students plus a top-up (mutuelle) if you want | Check the current student rate |
| South Korea | National Health Insurance enrolment is mandatory for students | Monthly premium applies, partly subsidised |
| Cyprus | Insurance meeting the residence permit rules | Varies by provider |
| Lithuania | Health insurance meeting the residence permit rules | Varies by provider |
| Malaysia | University or EMGS insurance scheme | Low per year, set by the provider |
Costs are guides. Always read the policy and confirm the current price with the official body or the university.
What to check in a policy
- Starts on arrival and covers the whole course plus any bridging period
- Covers hospital, GP, emergency and mental health care
- Pre-existing conditions and how they are treated
- Repatriation, and what happens if a family member needs to visit
- Deductible, co-pay and claim steps
- Whether dental, optical and prescriptions are covered
How to claim and where to go
- Keep your insurance card and policy number in your phone and wallet.
- Register with a local GP or the university health service in week one.
- For emergencies use the national emergency number first. Claim later using receipts.
- Mental health counselling is usually free through the university, so use it early.
Frequently asked questions
Is the UK health surcharge refundable?
If your visa is refused, the surcharge is refunded. Check the GOV.UK page for the current rules.
Do I need OSHC in Australia?
Yes. Student visa holders must keep OSHC for the whole stay.
Can I use my Pakistani insurance abroad?
Usually not as a replacement for the required cover. Check the visa condition for your destination.
What does health insurance not cover?
Often dental, optical and some pre-existing conditions. Read the policy exclusions.
What if I need mental health support?
Use the university’s free counselling service and your insurance’s helpline. Early contact makes a difference.
Sources and how we verify
Checked on 30 September 2026. This page is general information, not legal, immigration, medical or financial advice. Rules, fees and deadlines change, so confirm with the official body before you pay or apply.
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