Student visas for studying in Thailand
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International students at Thai universities usually study on a Non-Immigrant ED (education) visa. The visa covers full-time study at an institution recognised by the Thai authorities, and it can be extended for the length of the course.
Before you apply
You need an acceptance or admission letter from the university, which the university's international office normally provides together with a letter addressed to Immigration or the embassy. Some universities also provide a copy of their registration documents. Start with the university's international office, since it has done this many times.
If you are still choosing where to study, UniversitiesDB lists universities in Thailand with programmes, tuition and intakes, so you can compare options before applying.
Applying for the ED visa
Most applicants apply through the Thai e-Visa website, thaievisa.go.th, operated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Each embassy or consulate can ask for its own documents. Commonly requested items include:
- Passport valid for at least six months
- University acceptance letter and supporting letter
- Passport photo
- Proof of funds or a sponsor letter
- Evidence of accommodation in Thailand, in some cases
On arrival and extensions
An ED visa normally gives an initial stay of 90 days. Before it runs out, you apply to Immigration for an extension of stay with a letter from your university confirming enrolment. Extensions are usually granted for up to one year at a time and repeated each academic year. Your attendance and enrolment status can be checked.
Reporting duties
Students follow the same reporting rules as other long-stay visa holders. Your accommodation must report your address under TM30, and you must report your address to Immigration every 90 days of continuous stay. If you leave Thailand and want to keep your extension, apply for a re-entry permit before departure. See our note on TM30 address reporting.
Working while studying
An ED visa does not give a right to work. Paid work needs a work permit, and students generally cannot obtain one while on student status. Internships required by the course are usually arranged through the university and may need their own approvals.
Language schools and other courses
ED visas are also issued for language schools, Muay Thai and some other courses, under rules that are applied more strictly than for universities. Attendance requirements are checked, and a language-school ED visa is not a way to stay long term without studying.
Health insurance
Not all ED applications require health insurance, but universities often require students to hold a policy, and it is sensible to have one. See health insurance for visa applications.