Your Complete Guide to Applying for a Medicare Card in Australia in 2025
- Right Key Investment
- 11 minutes ago
- 4 min read
If you're planning to live in Australia long-term, one of the most important documents to have is a Medicare card. Medicare is Australia’s publicly funded healthcare system, designed to ensure that eligible residents can access essential medical services at little to no cost. This includes visits to general practitioners (GPs), public hospital treatment, surgical procedures, and subsidies on many prescription medications. For instance, a typical GP consultation might cost around $80, but if the clinic offers bulk billing, you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket—Medicare covers it.
Medicare can greatly reduce your healthcare expenses, making it an essential part of everyday life for many Australians. Whether you're a citizen, a permanent resident, or a visa holder with specific entitlements, it’s worth understanding how this system works—and how to enrol.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for Medicare?
To apply for Medicare, you must meet one of the following criteria:
Be an Australian citizen
Be an Australian permanent resident
Hold a specific temporary visa, such as:
A partner visa
A temporary protection visa
A bridging visa (with proof of your permanent residency application)
Be a New Zealand citizen residing in Australia
Be a visitor from a country that has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia, such as the UK, Netherlands, Sweden, Italy, or several others.
📌 Note: Tourist visa holders are generally not eligible for Medicare. You’ll need to rely on private health insurance during your stay.
How to Apply for a Medicare Card in 2025: Three Options
There are several ways to apply for Medicare depending on your situation. Below are the three main methods, along with tips on which may be most suitable for you.
1. Online Application (Highly Recommended)
If you're comfortable using the internet, this is the fastest and most convenient method.
Log in to your myGov account: https://my.gov.au
Link your Medicare account to your myGov account
Upload the necessary documents (e.g., passport, visa grant letter)
Once enrolled, you can access a digital Medicare card through the Express Plus Medicare app
📌 Best for: Tech-savvy individuals with all documentation ready.
2. Paper Form (By Mail or In-Person)
If you prefer traditional paperwork or don’t have online access:
Download and fill out the Medicare enrolment form (MS004)
Include copies of your passport and visa
Send it by mail or submit it in person at a Medicare service centre
📌 Best for: Older applicants or those who prefer paper forms.
3. In-Person at a Medicare Service Centre
You can visit a local Services Australia office to submit your documents:
Bring your passport, visa, and any supporting documents
The staff will help verify your information and guide you through the application
📌 Best for: People who need help due to language barriers, or those needing urgent access.
Documents You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll generally need to enrol:
Document | Description |
Passport | Valid and current, used to confirm your identity |
Visa documents | e.g., visa grant letter, PR approval, or bridging visa documents |
MS004 form | Required for paper applications (completed online for digital ones) |
ImmiCard | Only needed in specific cases, such as if your passport is not in English |
Family details | If enrolling a spouse or children, you’ll need their documents as well |
📌 Note: Children aged 15 or older must have their own Medicare number and can’t be included under a parent’s card.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your application is submitted:
The standard processing time is about 2 to 4 weeks
You may receive a temporary Medicare number earlier, allowing you to access medical services immediately
Use the Express Plus Medicare app to check your card status or access your digital card
Make sure to update your bank account details to ensure any reimbursements are deposited correctly
You can also manage future changes—like requesting a replacement card or updating contact info—via the myGov portal or the app.
How to Use Medicare
Once you receive your Medicare card, you can:
Visit GPs and specialist doctors who accept Medicare
Purchase medications with subsidies under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
Receive subsidised or free care in public hospitals
Apply for reimbursement by uploading receipts through the app if you’ve paid upfront
Most clinics will bulk bill eligible patients, which means they bill Medicare directly, so you don’t have to pay anything.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: I’ve just applied for permanent residency but haven’t been approved yet. Can I apply for Medicare?
A: Yes. If you have a bridging visa and a PR acknowledgement letter, you can apply for Medicare.
Q: Does my child need their own Medicare card?
A: Children under 15 can be added to a parent’s card. Once they turn 15, they must enrol separately.
Q: How long does it take to receive the card after applying?
A: Usually within 2 to 4 weeks. If you haven’t received it after that time or have changed address, contact Services Australia.
Important Notes on Medicare and Tax
It’s worth mentioning that once you’re eligible for Medicare, you may be subject to the Medicare Levy, which is generally 2% of your taxable income. This is separate from private health insurance.
Also, for tax purposes, some residents with higher incomes may need to consider whether they are liable for the Medicare Levy Surcharge if they don’t have private hospital insurance. Make sure to get advice from a tax agent if unsure.
Useful Links and Resources
Services Australia: Medicare Enrolment
Download the MS004 Form： https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/ms004
Medicare helpline: 132 011 (Monday to Friday)
Getting your Medicare card is an essential step for accessing affordable healthcare in Australia. Whether you’re a new migrant, a returning Aussie, or just arrived on a qualifying visa, the system is designed to help you get the care you need without breaking the bank. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Services Australia—or consult with a migration agent or settlement advisor.
Comments