Can I enter Thailand on a tourist visa and later switch to a Non-immigrant visa for an exchange program?

June 21, 2024
3 months ago
Deni **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi guys, I will be very happy if you help me!I have been accepted for an exchange program at Chula University. I have not yet received the necessary letter to obtain a Non-immigrant visa. I have purchased a ticket which we are worried about burning as it takes 21 working days to process the visa. Do you know if I can enter Thailand on a tourist visa and then renew it with a Non-immigrant?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is seeking advice on whether they can enter Thailand on a tourist visa while waiting for their Non-immigrant visa to be processed after being accepted into an exchange program at Chulalongkorn University. Comments suggest that entering on a tourist visa may be possible, allowing for an extension before switching to the Non-immigrant visa.
Jan ******************
As you’re Bulgarian, you’re entitled to purchase a 15 days visa on arrival at 2000 baht at the immigration in Thailand. You can get a 7 days extension denied stamp as well, so in total 22 days in Thailand before you re-enter and activate your Non O visa.
Graham ******
@Jan *****************
Cannot apply for a second Visa with one being processed
Jan ******************
@Graham *****
No you’re right she would have to cancel the Non O first and apply later inside or outside Thailand, but she can apply for VOA if the Non O is not processed in time.

(I’ll correct my comment).
Deni **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Jan *****************
Thank you very much!
Graham ******
You will have to leave and re-enter to activate a Visa already issued.
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