Can I volunteer while on a one-year Education (ED) visa in Thailand?

Question

Hello All,

I have Read and search through this FB group.  And so far nothing on the following subject.

Thank you in advance for any and all guidance available.

I was told by two people who lived here, Under Ed Visa, volunteering is strictly not allowed.

At the same time this website is specifically for applying a long term volunteer visa.  Which I do not need.

https://sans.co.th/volunteer-visa-chiang-mai/

Where do I go or who do I speak to get an accurate answer about having a one year ED visa, and volunteering once a day with a temple?

Again, thank you kindly

Ask Thailand · Answer

The conversation discusses the legality of volunteering in Thailand while holding a one-year Education (ED) visa. It is clarified that volunteering is considered a form of work, which is not allowed on an ED visa. Participants highlight that engaging in volunteer work without the appropriate visa and work permit can be illegal. Alternatives to volunteering include seeking a volunteer visa; however, these are increasingly rare and difficult to obtain. The discussion overall emphasizes the importance of understanding visa regulations and the risks of volunteering illegally.

Le ***** · Answer

I am grateful for the information.

Would any one please give a link that collaborates this?

Le ***** · Answer

Too all who replied,

1) wow.  You guys are quick.

2) this is informative.

3) thank you.

4) thanks to Bonnie who told me about this group and heads up about volunteering under ED Visa.

Stuart ********* · Answer

When clicking on that link the first thing that it shows is a date from 2022. Volunteer visas are almost exclusively done with. Over abused and cracked down on to the point that even visa agents won’t touch them with a barge pole.

You could potentially get one if volunteering at a real authorised place but these days they’re pretty much like rocking horse shit.

You could potentially get one if volunteering at a real authorised place but these days they’re pretty much like rocking horse shit.

Frank ********** · Answer

You can not volunteer on an ed visa, but you can go to school on a volunteer visa (if you can even get one these days). Volunteering is considered work and requires a visa and work permit accordingly. Education visas do not allow you to work… so you have to do it the other way around in order to legally volunteer.