The Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 and 462) is one of the most popular youth travel visas in the world. Here is what you need to know about insurance requirements in 2026.
Does Australia Require Travel Insurance?
Australia does not legally mandate travel insurance for Working Holiday visa holders. However, without it you are exposed to full private healthcare costs. A single emergency in Australia can cost AUD 5,000-50,000.
Australian Healthcare Costs for Visitors
A GP visit: AUD 80-200. Emergency department: AUD 400-1,500. One night in hospital: AUD 1,500-5,000. Major surgery: AUD 20,000-80,000. Reciprocal healthcare agreements exist with some countries (UK, Ireland, New Zealand, Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Sweden) but cover only emergency treatment.
IATI for Working Holiday Makers
IATI's annual backpacker plan covers up to 12 months, including all Australian states and territories, with medical coverage from EUR 50,000, adventure sports included (surfing, hiking, diving), and 24/7 telemedicine. Perfect for the WHV lifestyle.
Adventure Sports Coverage
Working Holiday makers often engage in extreme activities — skydiving, scuba diving, rock climbing, surfing. IATI covers 50+ adventure sports at no extra cost, as long as they are not performed professionally.
University Study Visas and OSHC
Students on Australian student visas must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their studies. Contact our team to verify IATI OSHC compliance for your specific institution and visa type.
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