Health Insurance for 408 Visa Holders: Performers, Athletes and Tour Groups

Every applicant for a Temporary Activity (subclass 408) visa must have adequate arrangements for health insurance for the time they will be in Australia. For touring performers, athletes and crew, this is often handled by the promoter, club or event organiser. This guide explains what the Department of Home Affairs looks for and how to get it right.

What adequate health insurance means

Cover should match the length and nature of the stay. The Department looks at whether the arrangements are adequate for the time in Australia. For longer stays, it is common to hold overseas visitor health cover from an Australian insurer. Athletes should check that the policy does not exclude injuries from the sport they play, and performers should check cover for activities on stage.

---

Short stays of up to 3 months

Under policy, for stays of up to 3 months the Department may accept that adequate arrangements are in place without asking for more evidence. It is still wise to hold travel or visitor health insurance, because hospital costs in Australia can be high for people without Medicare.

---

Tour groups and team cover

For an organised tour, the Department may accept group health insurance arranged by the tour organiser. This suits touring bands, theatre companies and sports teams. Make sure every person on the visa applications is covered for the full itinerary, including crew and family members.

---

Condition 8501

Condition 8501 is a discretionary condition. If it is imposed, you must maintain adequate health insurance for the whole time you are in Australia. Letting the cover lapse can be a breach of your visa conditions. See overseas visitor health cover.

---

Medicare and reciprocal agreements

Most 408 visa holders are not eligible for Medicare. Visitors from countries with a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia may be covered for medically necessary treatment, but this cover is limited, varies by country and usually does not replace private insurance. Use our free Medicare eligibility checker to see where you stand.

---

What you should do now

• Check the policy dates: cover should start on arrival and run to departure.
• Check sport and performance exclusions: some travel policies exclude professional sport.
• Cover the whole group: include crew, support staff and family members.
• Keep the certificate: include it with the visa application.