Study visas
Thai Non-Immigrant Visa ED (Education)
For foreigners enrolling at a Thai school, university, language or training institution, or attending an approved course or programme.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Exact validity, permitted course types and document lists differ by institution and consulate; verify against the MFA/e-Visa pages before publishing.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Thailand government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Non-Immigrant Visa Category "ED"
- Route type
- Study / education
- Validity
- Commonly 3 months from issue; extensions of stay applied for at the Immigration Bureau
- Sponsoring body
- Requires a letter from the accepting school, university, institute or organisation in Thailand
Who it is for
- Students at primary, secondary, Bachelor's or higher levels
- Language, Muay Thai, vocational, diploma and short-course students
- Interns, exchange students, and those attending workshops/seminars run by government, missions or international organisations
- Monks, nuns and priests studying Dharma in Thailand
Requirements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months on arrival
- Completed visa application form and a recent photograph
- Invitation/acceptance letter from the Thai institution stating name, nationality, passport number, curriculum and length of study
- Supporting documents from the institution (e.g. Ministry of Education approval where applicable)
What you can do
- Enrol in and attend the approved course or programme
- Apply to extend the stay through Immigration for the duration of the studies
- Report your address every 90 days while in Thailand
How to apply
- Obtain an acceptance/invitation letter from the Thai institution
- Apply at a Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate or via the Thailand e-Visa system
- Enter Thailand within the visa validity and enrol
- Extend the stay at the Immigration Bureau as your course requires
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.