An excess is an amount you agree to contribute when you are admitted to hospital under a policy that has an excess. It is different from your regular premium.

NIB OVHC excess options

NIB currently states that overseas visitors can select a $500 excess or a $0 excess. A higher excess can reduce the premium, but it means a larger upfront contribution if you are admitted to hospital and the excess applies.

$0 excess

Generally means a higher premium but no selected hospital excess to pay when the relevant admission occurs, subject to policy terms.

$500 excess

Can lower the premium, but you may need to contribute $500 toward a relevant hospital admission, subject to the policy rules.

Excess is not the same as every out-of-pocket cost

Choosing a $0 excess does not mean every healthcare service is free. Medical gaps, excluded services, benefit limits and other policy rules can still produce out-of-pocket costs.

Before choosing

Compare the premium difference between available excess options.
Consider whether you could comfortably pay the excess if admitted to hospital.
Check how often the excess can apply under your selected product.
Read the current NIB policy document before purchasing.

Frequently asked questions

What excess can overseas visitors choose with NIB?

NIB currently states that overseas visitors can select a $500 excess or a $0 excess.

Does a higher excess reduce the premium?

Generally, NIB explains that a higher excess can make hospital cover cheaper, but it increases the amount you may need to pay toward an admission.

Does $0 excess mean no out-of-pocket costs?

No. Other gaps, exclusions, limits and policy conditions can still affect what you pay.

Editorial note: product rules can change. This page is written from current NIB information available in August 2026. Always confirm the latest NIB policy documents and your visa requirements before purchasing or changing cover.