Thailand Student Visa

A Thailand Student Visa, officially known as the Non-Immigrant ED Visa, is a long-stay visa issued to foreign nationals who intend to pursue academic or non-academic studies in Thailand. This visa allows holders to legally reside in the country for the duration of their educational program. Whether you are attending a university, enrolling in a language school, or taking specialized training such as Muay Thai, the Student Visa Thailand provides a legal pathway for extended residence while studying. Note that short-term courses like diving or Thai cooking may no longer qualify for a Non-Immigrant ED Visa unless the institution is certified and the course meets a minimum duration requirement (typically 90 days). For more details on visa types, visit the Thai Immigration Bureau.

To apply for student visa Thailand, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria depending on their chosen program and institution. The Thailand Student Visa is available to individuals enrolled in formal education programs recognized by the Ministry of Education or certified private institutions.

Applicants must:

The visa applies to students enrolling in:

Short-term study programs in Thailand such as Thai cooking or scuba diving may no longer qualify for a Thailand Student Visa unless the institution is officially certified by the Thai Ministry of Education and the course meets a minimum duration of 90 days. To avoid rejection when you apply for student visa Thailand, always confirm eligibility with the embassy or consult a visa lawyer experienced in Non-Immigrant ED Visa Thailand regulations.

Ensure your chosen course meets visa eligibility criteria. Most schools provide guidance on Student Visa Thailand requirements.

To apply for a Thailand Student Visa, you’ll need the following documents:

This is known as the TM30 form, which must be submitted to Thai immigration within 24 hours of your arrival to comply with residence reporting obligations.

If you’re applying from abroad, it’s important to understand how to apply for student visa Thailand through your local Thai Embassy or Consulate. Each country may have specific requirements, so always consult the embassy’s official website for guidance. The application process typically begins in your home country or from a nearby Thai diplomatic mission if you are already in Southeast Asia. You must first collect all the necessary documents, including your passport, acceptance letter from a Thai educational institution, proof of financial means, and a completed visa application form. Once you have gathered the required paperwork, schedule an appointment with the nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate. Be aware that procedures and document requirements may vary depending on your country of residence. For example, the Royal Thai Embassy in London provides specific guidelines for UK-based applicants. At your appointment, you will submit your application and pay the applicable visa fee generally around 2,000 THB for a single-entry student visa. The processing time usually takes between 3 to 10 working days. To avoid delays or rejection, double-check all requirements in advance and follow the official steps carefully.

Yes, it is possible to extend your Student Visa in Thailand while remaining in the country. To do so, you must visit your local immigration office before your current visa expires. The extension process requires several key documents, including an updated confirmation letter from your school, proof of regular attendance, and evidence of academic progress. These documents demonstrate that you are actively participating in your studies and complying with visa conditions.

When submitting your extension request, you will also need to pay a visa extension fee, which is typically 1,900 THB. If everything is in order, extensions are usually granted in 90-day increments. Some educational institutions in Thailand offer assistance by preparing and organizing the required paperwork on your behalf, which can simplify the process. However, it’s still your responsibility to ensure the application is submitted on time and fully compliant with immigration regulations.

The initial Non-Immigrant ED Visa is usually valid for 90 days. Upon arrival in Thailand, you must report to immigration within that period to begin the extension process.

The visa can be extended up to one year, depending on your course duration and academic progress. Students must maintain enrollment and comply with the 90-day reporting rule. Even if your address has not changed, you are still legally required to submit your 90-day report to Thai immigration.

No, you cannot legally work in Thailand with a Student Visa (Non-Immigrant ED Visa). This type of visa is issued strictly for educational purposes, and Thai immigration law prohibits any form of employment under its terms. Engaging in paid work while holding a student visa is considered a violation of your visa conditions and may result in visa cancellation, fines, or even deportation.

However, if you wish to work while studying in Thailand, there are limited legal alternatives. One option is to apply for a work permit through a Thai employer, but doing so will require you to change your visa type to a Non-Immigrant B Visa (business visa), which involves a different application process. Another possible route is through internships officially approved by both your educational institution and the Thai Ministry of Labour. Immigration may not recognize internships unless these formal procedures are followed. However, these opportunities are rare and must be formally approved by immigration authorities. To avoid any legal issues, it’s essential to fully understand and respect the conditions of your student visa throughout your stay in Thailand.

A visa lawyer ensures your application is legally sound, reducing the chances of rejection. Lawyers assist with:

A lawyer can also help you:

Planning to stay in Thailand after completing your studies? Transitioning to a long-term visa for work can be your next move. Download the One-Year Business Visa and explore your legal options to remain in Thailand for professional opportunities.

Applying for a student visa in Thailand involves several legal and administrative steps that can be confusing without the right guidance. Whether you’re enrolling in university, taking language courses, or pursuing cultural studies, it’s crucial to have your documentation and visa process handled with care. At Themis Partner, we offer end-to-end assistance for your Student Visa Thailand, from initial consultation to document preparation and submission. Our legal professionals ensure your application is legally compliant, reducing risks of denial and saving you time. Contact us today to secure your Student Visa Thailand with full legal support tailored to your educational goals.