Can I switch from an Education Visa to a 5-Year Elite Visa without leaving Thailand?

Education Visa Thai Elite Visa Visa Switch

Apr 18, 2020

5 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi, My education visa expires on 16th May. Can I take out a 5 year elite visa without leaving Thailand?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Yes, it is possible to switch from an Education Visa (ED) to a 5-Year Elite Visa without leaving Thailand. The Thai Elite Visa team confirmed that applicants can start the process while remaining in the country. However, it's important to note that if you leave Thailand during the application process, you would be unable to return on the Elite Visa due to current rules. The background check for the Elite Visa may take 1-2 months, and it's advisable to contact the Elite Visa team for further details.

Darren ********

I contacted them this week and started the process. They told me it can be done without leaving Thailand, however if you do leave you cannot return yet as this visa won’t allow reentry under the current rules. They were very keen to stress that.

The background check period is 1-2 months with no guarantee on timescales. Nor did they suggest any shortcut - it is out of the elite teams hands.

My suggestion is to contact them and fill in the forms now. As you don’t need to pay the fee until they are ready on their side. You can see where you are when the fee becomes payable.

5 years ago

Tod *********

thanx for that update (y) I head heard they were faster on the background checks now but it seems not to be the case..

5 years ago

Reply to

Tod *********

Gordon **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thank you

@T**

5 years ago

Tod *********

@Gor***

that would be the first place I'd check with

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5 years ago

Tod *********

Did you contact the Thai Elite Visa people and see what they said about in country switches from an ED visa extension straight to a Thai Elite visa without having to leave the country?

5 years ago

Gordon **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Tod ********

. No I have not.

5 years ago

Reply to

Gordon **********

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