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What visa do I need to ordain as a Buddhist monk in Thailand, and what are the procedures, requirements, and costs involved?

Visa for Buddhist monk Thai visa application Non R-A visa Visa requirements Visa extension Ordination process in Thailand Immigration guidance

Jul 4, 2025

10 days ago

Kunga *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello everyone 🙏🏻

I have a question for the group:

I'm planning to ordain as a buddhist monk in November for over a year and would like to inquire about the proper procedures for obtaining the appropriate visa. Could you kindly provide me with information on the visa that I need? Process, requirements, costs, and processing times?

I would greatly appreciate any guidance or advice you can offer to ensure a smooth application process.

With Mettā 

Kunga Rinchen

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TLDR : Answer Summary

To ordain as a Buddhist monk in Thailand, you will need a Non-Immigrant "R" visa. It is essential to get approval from Thai authorities, such as the Department of Religious Affairs or the National Bureau of Buddhism, as these are prerequisites for your visa application. The initial visa is usually valid for 90 days, and you can apply for an extension of stay for up to 1 year at the Immigration Bureau, provided you meet the necessary requirements and have the requisite approvals from religious authorities and your abbot. Additionally, it's advisable to consult the temple where you plan to ordain to confirm their sponsorship for your visa application.

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Mark ********

Have you asked the temple where you intend to ordain whether they will sponsor your application?

9 days ago

Kunga *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Mark *******

They will

8 days ago

Reply to

Kunga *********

Jeremy ********

Non R-A visa is needed

Approval from Thai Authorities: A crucial step is obtaining the necessary approval letters from the relevant Thai government departments, such as the Department of Religious Affairs or the National Bureau of Buddhism. These approvals are often prerequisites for the visa.

* Visa Validity: The initial Non-Immigrant "R" visa is often valid for 90 days.

* Extension of Stay: If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension of stay (up to 1 year at a time) at the Immigration Bureau in Thailand, provided you meet the requirements and have the necessary approvals from the relevant Thai religious authorities and your abbot/religious organization.

Good luck

10 days ago

Reply to

Jeremy ********

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