Thailand Student Visa: Study Thai Language & Training Programs
Study and Train in Thailand
Thailand attracts thousands of international students every year thanks to its diverse training programs, affordable cost of living, and exceptional quality of life. The Non-Immigrant ED visa (Education) is the key to pursuing your studies or attending a training program in the Kingdom.
Types of Programs Covered
Thai Language Courses
Schools approved by the Ministry of Education. Programs from 6 months to 1 year, renewable.
University
Bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree at Thai public and private universities.
Private / International School
International schools and private institutions recognized by the government.
Muay Thai / Martial Arts
Certified training camps offering long-term training programs.
The Non-Immigrant ED Visa in Detail
Initial duration
90 days
Renewable every 90 days
Consular fees (single)
2,000 THB (~€55)
At the embassy
Multiple entries
5,000 THB (~€135)
Valid 1 year
The ED visa is issued for an initial period of 90 days. As long as you are enrolled in a recognized institution, you can renew it every 90 days at Immigration, without leaving the country.
Eligibility Requirements
- Acceptance letter from an institution recognized by the Thai Ministry of Education
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of stay (bank statement)
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry
- No criminal record in Thailand
- Medical certificate (depending on the embassy)
Required Documents
- Original passport + copies of identity pages
- Completed visa application form
- 2 recent passport photos (4×6 cm)
- Acceptance letter from the school / university
- Bank statements from the last 3 months
- Round-trip flight ticket (or proof of onward travel)
Need help with your student visa?
Our team assists you: school selection, document preparation, application follow-up.
Application Steps
Choose your institution
Select a school or university accredited by the Thai Ministry of Education and enroll.
Obtain the acceptance letter
The institution will provide an official letter confirming your enrollment and program dates.
Submit your application
Visit the Thai embassy or consulate in your country with all required documents.
Enter Thailand
Your ED visa is activated upon entry. You have 90 days before the first renewal.
Renew every 90 days
Visit Immigration with your attendance certificate from the school to extend your stay.
Recognized Schools
Not all schools allow you to obtain an ED visa. The institution must be registered with the Thai Ministry of Education and be authorized to sponsor student visas. Here are the generally recognized types:
- Accredited public and private universities
- Approved Thai language schools (Union Language School, Pro Language, AAA Thai, etc.)
- International schools (primary and secondary)
- Certified Muay Thai camps with an educational license
Beware of ghost schools
Some schools sell ED visas without providing actual classes. These practices are illegal and can result in visa cancellation and blacklisting. Always verify the school's accreditation before enrolling.
Can you work on a student visa?
No, in principle the ED visa does not grant the right to work in Thailand. Any paid activity without a work permit is illegal and punishable by a fine and deportation.
However, there is an exception: students employed by a company holding BOI (Board of Investment) privileges can obtain a separate work permit while keeping their ED visa. This situation remains rare and requires employer support.
Our Tips
💡 Practical advice
- Plan your renewal early — Visit Immigration at least 2 weeks before your visa expires.
- Complete your 90-day reports — In addition to visa renewal, you must report your address every 90 days (online or in person).
- Actually attend classes — Immigration may check your attendance. Insufficient attendance can lead to a renewal denial.
- Keep copies of everything — Passport, visa, enrollment letter, payment receipts. Maintain both digital and paper copies.
- Get health insurance — Not mandatory but highly recommended. Medical costs can be significant without coverage.
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Request AssistanceQuick Summary
- Duration
- 90 days (extendable)
- Target
- Students, training
Other Visas
Need help with your Thailand Student Visa: Study Thai Language & Training Programs?
Our expert team guides you through every step: eligibility check, document preparation, and full application follow-up.