Do you know How to Get Student Visa in Thailand? If you don't, then you are in the right place because we are going to show you. If you're considering pursuing your education in Thailand, you're embarking on an exciting journey filled with cultural enrichment and academic growth.
To help you navigate through the process, this guide will walk you through the essential steps of obtaining a student visa in Thailand, from application to approval. Whether you're aiming to explore Thai culture or pursue academic excellence, this guide has got you covered.
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Why Study in Thailand?
Thailand, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, has become a sought-after destination for international students.
The country offers a diverse range of educational opportunities, and getting a student visa is the first step toward making your dream of studying in Thailand a reality.
Thailand is culturally diverse, affordable for living in, and a very exciting place to be. Many foreign students like to study here due to the global education standards, amazing cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and top-rated beaches.
The country is also known for high-quality education in Science and Technology. Bangkok alone has long been the learning hub of Thailand with five universities ranked in the QS World University Rankings. Also, the student view ranks 16th in the QS ranking score.
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Thailand Student Visa Requirements
To apply for a Thai Student Visa, you'll require certain documents to support your visa application. The Thailand Student Visa requirements include the following:
- Your passport, which is valid for at least another six months and has at least two blank visa pages. If you're applying for a one-year visa, your passport should be valid for at least another 18 months.
- Photocopy of your passport
- A completed and signed Thailand Student Visa application form. You may be able to download it from the website of the Embassy or Consulate or get it there if you apply in person.
- A Letter of Admission from your school in Thailand, addressed to the Thai Embassy or Consulate in which you will apply.
- If the school is a private institute: Approval from the Ministry of Education
- The Thai School or Institution's registration documents (if applicable)
- If you will undergo an internship in Thailand: A letter of confirmation from the school in which you are enrolled.
- Passport-sized pictures of yourself, with the following specifications:
- Dimensions: 4 cm x 6 cm
- White background
- Taken within the last six months
- You must have a neutral facial expression, staring straight ahead
- Your entire face must be fully visible
- Headgear is only allowed for religious purposes and even then, only if it does not cover the face
- Glasses are allowed only if they do not cover your eyes and do not have heavy frames
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the duration of your stay. You need 20,000 Thai Baht if you are traveling alone and 40,000 Thai Baht if you are traveling as a family.
- Police clearance certificate issued by the authorities in your country, which proves you do not have a criminal background. This is necessary only if you will take a course which is at least 1 year.
- Payment of the Thai Student Visa fee.
Please Note: This above list is not an exhaustive list of Thai Student Visa requirements. The Thai diplomatic mission office to which you will apply may ask for any additional documents that they see fit.
Most of the documents you submit may have to be legalized before they can be used by the Thai Embassy. Your documents must be in either Thai or English (as the Embassy or Consulate informs you), so if they are not already, you have to translate them by an authorized translator.
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How to Get Student Visa in Thailand (The Step-by-Step Process)
Before you apply, you should know that the Thai student visa is a non-immigrant Thai visa, which means that this visa is applicable for purposes other than tourism.
This visa is a Non-Immigrant Visa Category “ED” and requires the following criteria to be granted to international students:
- You should be enrolled in a Thai university.
- You may apply for three courses. However, there may also be a requirement for applying for four courses.
- Your study program should have a minimum of 15 hours of classes per week.
The requirements to fulfill a Thai student visa may change from time to time. Do make sure to check with your school before applying.
The application process is simple where you have to:
- Contact the Thailand Embassy for the application form or download it online from their website.
- Collect the required documents and make an appointment for submission of the form and the necessary documents. You may submit in person or through post. If you are posting your application and documents, you must enclose a pre-paid and self-addressed envelope.
- The application processing may take some time. Once it is processed, you will be notified of the decision from the Embassy as to whether your form has been accepted.
- After the processing is complete, you will be asked to collect your passport and visa if your application is accepted. After approval, you will be expected to travel to Thailand within the time stated on the visa.
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What is the Cost of Living in Thailand as an International Student?
While you prepare to get your Thai student visa, you should also consider the living expenses and make sure you are well prepared for it.
| Accommodation | Cost (approx.) |
| Within Bangkok | |
| Single Occupancy | $160 to $480 per month |
| Twin-share | $140 to $320 per student per month |
| Studio Room | $200 per month |
| Apartment | Starting from $400 per month |
| Outside Bangkok | |
| Triple / Quadruple Share | $200 to $320 per student per semester |
| Double Occupancy | $300 to $600 per student per semester |
| Studio Room | Starting from $140 per month |
| Apartment | $200 to $400 per month |
The rental rates include services like utilities and internet, and these include additional rates.
Other expenses
| Accommodation | Cost (approx.) |
| Food | |
| (Simple dishes like chicken with rice, stir fries with rice, fried rice, noodle soups or pad Thai) | $1.60 – $2.40 |
| Soft drink | $0.60 |
| Plain water (0.5 litres) | $0.40 to $0.80 |
| Travel | |
| Non-AC Bus | $0.28 – $0.40 |
| AC Bus | less than $1.2 |
| Bangkok BTS (Skytrain) & MRT Subway | $2.28 (single journey) |
Now that we've seen what the living expense will look like, let's discuss opportunities to help you minimize such expenses; e.g. scholarships.
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Scholarships in Thailand for Int'l Students
So many universities in Thailand do offer fully or partially-funded scholarships to both local and International students, and you could benefit from it as well.
Here's a list of Thailand scholarships for international students:
- Thailand International Postgraduate Program (TIPP)
- Education Fund International scholarship
- IELTS Test Fee Scholarship
- Japan Government Funding for Developing Countries Students at Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand
- Education Fund International Scholarship
- MA Program Scholarship at the School Of Global Studies, Thammasat University
- EFS scholarship program Thailand 2021-2022 for International Students
- SIT Zero Fees English Scholarship
- Women In Finance Scholarship 2021-22
- EIT International Excellence Scholarship
- Chulalongkorn University's Graduate programme
- Harbour Space University Bangkok International Master's Scholarship in Thailand
- Prince of Songkla University Faculty of Medicine International Student Graduate Scholarships
- SEARCA Graduate funding for Southeast Asians
- Asian Institute of Technology GAFS-AIT International Scholarship in Thailand
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Process a Thailand Student Visa?
The processing time for a Thailand Student Visa depends on the Embassy or Consulate through which you apply.
You should give it about 5 – 10 business days, although some offices claim to process your visa in as little as two days.
How Long Is the Thai Student Visa Valid?
A Thailand Student Visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days for a single entry or multiple entries. Even though your course of study is most likely at least one year, you'll still get a 90-day visa.
However, before your visa is up, you can apply to extend it at the Thailand Immigration Department for a fee of 1,900 Thai Baht.
You have to extend it every 90 days before the expiry of the existing visa.
Is Thailand a good choice for International students?
Thailand is known for its advanced education system, and its study programs are globally recognized.
This makes it an ideal choice for international students to gain worldwide academic experience.
Can international students work while studying in Thailand?
The answer is No!
A student visa does not grant international students to work while studying in Thailand.
A work permit may not be issued to Thai student visa holders.
How Much Does it Cost for a Student Visa in Thailand?
The fee for a Thailand Student Visa is 2,000 Thai Baht (appx. US$ 65 / € 60). However, the fee can change slightly depending on the local currency, as well as the Embassy / Consulate in which you apply.
Additionally, the method of paying for the Thailand Student Visa fee also changes depending n where you apply.
Some Embassies or Consulates may require the fee to be paid in cash, while others can ask you to pay it through bank order.
Is health insurance mandatory for student visa holders?
Yes, having health insurance is a requirement for obtaining a student visa in Thailand. It ensures that you are covered for any medical expenses during your stay.
What should I do if my visa extension is denied?
If your visa extension is denied, you should consult the immigration authorities to understand the reasons for the denial.
You might need to adjust your travel plans accordingly.
How early should I start the visa application process?
It's recommended to start the visa application process at least 2-3 months before your intended travel date.
This allows ample time for document preparation, submission, and processing.
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Summary
There you have it; all the basic info you need on How to Get a Student Visa in Thailand. Obtaining a student visa for Thailand opens the door to a world of academic excellence and cultural exploration.
By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and successful journey toward achieving your educational goals in the Land of Smiles.
So, why not embrace the experience, make lifelong memories, and thrive as an international student in Thailand?
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