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Does having a volunteer visa cause issues when applying for other types of visas in Thailand?

Volunteer Visa Visa Issues Immigration Problems Thai Visa Regulations Non-O Visa COVID-19 Impact on Visas Marriage Visa Tourist Visa

Oct 28, 2023

a year ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

I’ve heard people say that the volunteer visa causes problems getting other visas later is this correct ?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Yes, having a volunteer visa can lead to complications when applying for other visas in Thailand. Many volunteer visas issued were questionable, and this has caused issues for applicants, including denials for entry and difficulties obtaining visas like the Elite visa. It's reported that immigration has scrutinized these visas more strictly post-COVID. While some individuals may not face immediate problems, the overall consensus is that a volunteer visa can impact future visa applications.

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Bob **********

Yes so does shoddy ED visas

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Terary **********

When Covid first hit, many of us got Volunteer visas. Towards the end of covid immigration scrutinized those with volunteer visas more so than other people (so I heard).

I have a volunteer visa in my passport. I have since gotten a couple of marriage visas and maybe a tourist visa... I am not sure but nobody has said anything about it.

There may also be a difference between a legit volunteer visa and a early-covid volunteer visa.

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Kool *******

If you don't have the normal 90 day extensions in your passport a volunteer visa requires, you will have problems.

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Steve ********

Totally. Many volunteer visas were bogus and issued through agencies with no volunteer foundation involved. Unfortunately even those who had genuine visas have got caught up in the outfall. Many people are denied entry and it's impossible to get an Elite visa.

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Steve ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

thanks for that Steve. So even if it is a totally legitimate project I’d still be doomed later you think ?

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Steve ********

If you meet all the requirements of the visa, which as

points out is having the 90 day extensions and a letter from the foundation which details when you were working and what your duties involved, and most importantly a copy of your Work Permit, and you carry these with you for the next few you should (and I emphasise "should") be ok

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Steve ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

what are the 90 day extensions ? The program is 8 weeks twice a year that I will be helping with as a volunteer

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Steve ********

When you enter Thailand on a volunteer visa you are stamped in for 90 days. If the foundation wishes you to extend your stay they will give you the necessary paperwork which you take to immigration and get an extension of stay for another 90 days. The bogus visas apparently were for 12 months stay

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Steve ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

ok I see. Is it worth going to a lawyer or agent or is that where the trouble arises ?

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Steve ********

Probably about the worst thing you could do. Have you already been on a volunteer visa or is it something you're planning?

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Steve ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

no I haven’t done it before. A group ( legitimate ) has asked me to run a volunteer course twice a year.

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Steve ********

They would be the best people to talk to. Are they a registered foundation and will they be assisting with your work permit?

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Steve ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

they are registered . And they will organize the wp

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Steve ********

In that case you'll be fine

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Steve ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

even coming back again?

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Steve ********

Yes just ensure you keep all the relevant documents or copies of it

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Steve ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

thanks Steve

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Steve ********

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Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

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The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

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