What are the procedures and advice for applying for an ED visa in Thailand, including changing from a Tourist Visa?

ED Visa Tourist Visa Visa Change Thai Language Classes Visa Application Process Chiang Mai Immigration Procedures Student Visa

Jun 29, 2022

2 years ago

Nicholas ***********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi Everyone! I’m curious about anyone’s experiences with, or advice for:

1. Applying for an ED visa while in Thailand versus applying from home country (USA)

1. Changing visa while in Thailand from a 60-day single-entry Tourist Visa to an ED visa

I’m currently taking Thai language classes over Zoom via TSL Chiang Mai, and intend to continue my language studies in Chiang Mai. Thank you!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The post seeks advice on applying for an ED visa while in Thailand versus from the USA, and the process of changing from a 60-day Tourist Visa to an ED visa. Community comments suggest that obtaining an ED visa from a language school can only be done after entering Thailand, and that it's important to start the process as soon as you arrive at the school to ensure timely approval. Additionally, concerns were raised about passport handling during this process.

Shane ********

Do they take your passport away? Because I need to travel within Thailand

2 years ago

Mathew *******

I just got mine done in BKK. It took about 4 weeks for the whole process. Like what was said above, you would need to apply ASAP to get it done within 30 days.

2 years ago

Siddhartha *********

@Mathew ******

can you recommend your school and share the approx cost all inclusive? Is it online or classroom?

2 years ago

Reply to

Siddhartha *********

Kool *******

The only way to qualify for an ED visa before you enter Thailand is if you enroll, and pay your fees, to an actual accredited university. The ED visa for language schools, and such, you can only get after you enter the country.

2 years ago

Frank-Steven ***********

@Kool ******

Yes. They somehow forgot to revert that back with the opening after COVID. Thailand always some mess.

2 years ago

Reply to

Frank-Steven ***********

Brandon ************

The schools have been doing it since Covid started so they're well versed.

You just need to go to the school quickly after you arrive as it takes weeks for the school to get ministry of education approval which you then take to immigration along with the other forms the school gives you to change to ED.

2 years ago

Nicholas ***********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

Good to know - thank you so much!

2 years ago

Brandon ************

@Nicholas **********

If you are attempting to absolutely maximize your time in Thailand, just know that your ED will start the day you apply. So you will lose any time you have left on your TR visa. So work with the school to go to immigration with only 1-2 weeks left on your TR visa.

2 years ago

Reply to

Brandon ************

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Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

Should I apply for a Thai ED visa before traveling or can I do it after entering on a tourist visa?

22 comments