What is a Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES)?

A Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES) is a document that confirms you are not entitled to Medicare benefits during a specified period. This statement is necessary for international students and temporary residents to claim an exemption from the Medicare levy.

How to Apply for a Medicare Entitlement Statement

There are two primary methods to apply for an MES: online using myGov or by filling out a form. (https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/how-to-get-medicare-entitlement-statement?context=23266)

Method 1: Apply Online Using MyGov

Step 1: Link the Individual Healthcare Identifiers (IHI) Service to MyGov

  1. Sign in to MyGov: Go to the myGov website and sign in to your account.
  2. View and Link Services: Select ‘View and link services.’
  3. Link IHI Service: Click ‘Link’ on the Individual Healthcare Identifier service tile.
  4. Create or Link IHI: Choose ‘I have an IHI’ to link the service to your myGov account, or select ‘I need an IHI’ to apply for one and then link the service.

Step 2: Provide Identification

You will need to provide personal details and information from one of these identity documents:

  • Your passport with a valid Australian Visa
  • Your Australian driver licence

Make sure to have one of these documents handy before proceeding.

Step 3: Apply for MES

Once your IHI service is linked, you can access the MES dashboard to:

  • Track the progress of your application
  • Upload necessary documents
  • Download and print your statements

If you opt to receive letters in your myGov Inbox, you’ll be notified whenever there’s an update on your MES dashboard.

Method 2: Apply Using a Form

If you prefer to apply using a form, follow these steps:

  1. Download the MES Application Form: Save the form to your device.
  2. Complete the Form: Fill out the relevant questions digitally or by hand.
  3. Save Changes: Ensure all changes are saved if completed digitally.
  4. Upload to MyGov: Upload the completed form and supporting documents to your myGov account.

Required Supporting Documents

You may need to provide copies of any of the following documents:

  • Your current visa
  • A letter from the Department of Home Affairs showing the date your application for permanent residency was received
  • A letter from the Department of Home Affairs showing the date your application for permanent residency was either granted, refused, or withdrawn
  • A letter from the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Federal Court, or High Court showing you appealed a refused application for permanent residency, or proof of ministerial intervention request
  • Your European Health Insurance Card or other proof of health insurance

Submission Options for Supporting Documents

If you cannot upload the documents to myGov, you can either:

  • Email them to: mes@servicesaustralia.gov.au
  • Post them to: Services Australia Medicare Entitlement Statement Unit GPO Box 9822 Adelaide SA 5001

Understanding and obtaining a Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES) is crucial for international students and temporary residents aiming to claim a Medicare levy exemption. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a smooth application process.

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