What is the process for extending a student visa for a master's degree in Thailand after the first year?

student visa Thailand university visa extension ED visa master's degree immigration rules public university private university

Feb 13, 2022

3 years ago

Batuhan *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi everyone, I want to do my master degree in a Thailand university. As I read in the thai embassy website, student visa can given for 3 months and extend for 1 year in immigration bureau. So what is the process for 2nd year? Do I have to go back my country and apply for the visa again or can I extend the visa when I’m in Thailand? Does anyone has an idea?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

If you intend to pursue a master's degree in Thailand, you can obtain a student visa (ED visa) initially valid for 3 months and extend it for 1 year. After the first year, you can typically extend your visa within Thailand provided you have all necessary documentation from your university. No need to return to your home country for a new application, especially if you are enrolled in a public university. In contrast, procedures for private universities may vary.

Denis *********

If you study in public university (under government) you no need to travel anywhere surely. Just extend in Thailand based on docs provided by university. I am not sure about private universities. But think same procedure

3 years ago

Batuhan *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Denis ********

thank you. It seems I will choose government university.

3 years ago

Denis *********

@Batuhan ****

so no worries

3 years ago

Reply to

Denis *********

Benjamin ******

There are two types of ED Visas. The first type of ED visa is for studying Thai language, kickboxing, scuba diving, or other informal activities. A person can only study for one year on this visa.

The other type is for a formal degree seeking student. This visa allows a person to stay in Thailand for the course of the program (2 years in your case, I think). The extension of stays will be issued each term.

3 years ago

Batuhan *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Benjamin *****

btw, thank you so much 🙏

3 years ago

Batuhan *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Benjamin *****

do these visas affect each other? I mean if I have 1 year ed visa for kickboxing course. After this expired can I have formal degree visa without leaving country?

3 years ago

Batuhan *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

I see clearly now. Thank you again 🙏

3 years ago

Benjamin ******

@Batuhan ****

that would be between you, the school, and the immigration office.

Universities that offer formal degrees on an ED visa require a person to physically attend class, and to pass the class.

3 years ago

Reply to

Benjamin ******

Kool *******

You must be accepted by the university into a master's program, have all your fees paid, then they will help you get your visa, and all this must be done before you enter Thailand. The university must also verify that you qualify for the particular master's program. Also, if you are not making normal progress in the program, you will flunk out, and have 7 days to leave Thailand.

3 years ago

Batuhan *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Kool ******

what is mean not making normal progress exactly? Is it mean not attending class or something like this?

3 years ago

Kool *******

@Batuhan ****

you have to be passing your classes. That is normal progress. If you don't attend classes you won't pass. The same as you had to pass to get your four year degree.

3 years ago

Reply to

Kool *******

Roger ********

Ask the university you're applying to for assistance

3 years ago

Batuhan *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Roger *******

for now, I’m trying to decide for which university 🙂. So there is no assistance I can talk.

3 years ago

Roger ********