Can I change my Non-B visa to a tourist visa while in Thailand if my school has moved on?

Question

Please, I need some advice.

I have a 90-day Non-B visa, but my school has already moved on. I was advised to change my visa to a tourist visa because a new school would not be able to change my current Non-B visa while I am still in Thailand.

How true is this information? Has anyone experienced a similar situation? I would really appreciate your advice.

Thank you!

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user is currently in Thailand on a 90-day Non-B visa that was issued by their school, which has since closed. They are seeking advice on whether it's true that they need to switch to a tourist visa due to their school's departure, as their new school cannot change their current visa while they remain in the country. Commenters provide insights, stating that the user likely needs to exit Thailand, apply for a tourist visa, and then return, with one suggesting potential exit countries like Laos or Malaysia.

Understandin************* · Answer

[mention redacted]

I am already in Thailand. I got my visa the same day I was informed that they will move on and entered Thailand the next day which was the weekend. By Monday, they've already moved on. Now my new school says I will need to exit and get a tourist visa which they are willing to change in the country.

Again I am still stuck on which country to exit to for the tourist - Laos or Malaysia?

Brandon ************ · Answer

You cannot get a work extension from a visa obtained for one employer while working for a different employer. You would still be able to enter Thailand with the visa you already have, but you wouldn't be able to do anything else after that.

You either need to get your current visa cancelled if you haven't already traveled to Thailand and then apply for a new non-B with paperwork from the new employer, or travel to Thailand as a tourist and switch to a non-B inside of Thailand if your employer can do that (many are not willing as it requires a huge amount of paperwork).

If you already entered Thailand then you need to leave and either apply for a new non-B visa from the Thai embassy where you travel to, or return to Thailand as a tourist if your employer supports converting to non-B.

Bob ********** · Answer

You may be on overstay

Can I change my Non-B visa to a tourist visa while in Thailand if my school has moved on?

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