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Education Visa (Non-ED)

The Thailand Education Visa (Non-Immigrant ED) is designed for foreigners who wish to study in Thailand. This includes Thai language courses, Muay Thai training, cooking schools, university programs, and other accredited educational programs. The visa is initially valid for 90 days and can be extended to 1 year, with further renewals possible as long as you remain enrolled in an approved course.

Duration

90 days

Cost

2,000 THB (~$58 USD) for single entry visa

Extension

1,900 THB (~$55 USD) per 90-day extension

Updated

2026-02-17

Requirements

✓

Valid passport

Must have at least 6 months validity remaining

✓

Acceptance letter from school

Official acceptance or enrollment letter from a Thai Ministry of Education approved school or institution

✓

School registration documents

Copy of school license, curriculum details, and course schedule

✓

Passport-sized photos

Two recent photos (4x6 cm) with white background

✓

Proof of finances

Bank statement or proof of funds to support yourself during studies

✓

Completed visa application form

Available from the Thai embassy or e-Visa website

Application Process

Enroll in an Approved School

Choose a school approved by the Thai Ministry of Education. Popular options include Thai language schools (like AUA, Pro Language, or Union Language), Muay Thai camps, and international universities. The school will provide the documents needed for your visa application.

Apply for the Visa

Apply at a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand, or through the e-Visa system. Submit the school's acceptance letter, registration documents, and all other required paperwork.

Enter Thailand and Begin Studies

Enter Thailand on your ED visa (90-day initial stamp). Begin attending classes as scheduled - attendance records are important for visa extensions.

Extend Every 90 Days

Visit immigration before your 90 days expire with proof of enrollment and attendance from your school. The school usually helps prepare extension documents.

Duration & Extension

Initial Stay

90 days

Extension

Can be extended in 90-day increments up to 1 year at an immigration office. Extensions require proof of ongoing attendance and progress at the school. After 1 year, you can renew if still enrolled in the program. Cost is 1,900 THB per extension.

Eligible Countries

All nationalities can apply for an Education Visa

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of study qualify for an ED visa?

Approved programs include: Thai language courses, Muay Thai training, Thai cooking courses, university degree programs (bachelor's, master's, PhD), vocational training, international school enrollment for children, and cultural study programs like traditional Thai massage. The school must be approved by the Ministry of Education.

Can I work while on an Education Visa?

No, the Education Visa does not permit any form of employment. Working without authorization can result in visa cancellation, fines, and deportation. Some university programs may allow limited internships with special permission.

How much do Thai language courses cost?

Thai language courses for ED visa holders typically cost 25,000-35,000 THB per year at established schools like AUA or Pro Language. This usually includes 2-4 hours of classes per week. Cheaper options exist but may have less reliable visa support.

Do I actually have to attend classes?

Yes, attendance is mandatory and monitored. Thai immigration has cracked down on ED visa abuse in recent years. Schools must report student attendance, and immigration may conduct spot checks. Poor attendance can lead to visa cancellation. Take your studies seriously.

Tips

💡Learning Thai is genuinely rewarding and makes your time in Thailand much richer - the ED visa is a great way to commit to it.
💡Choose a well-established school with a good reputation for visa support - ask in expat forums for recommendations.
💡Muay Thai ED visas are popular but some camps have had visa issues - verify the camp is MoE-approved before paying.
💡Keep all receipts and attendance records - you may need them for visa extensions or if questioned by immigration.