FAQ – Thai Education Visa & Courses

FAQ – Thai Education Visa & Courses

We know you’ve got questions, and we’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about the FAQ Thai Education Visa and studying at New Stamford School.

Eligibility for Thai Education Visa

A: At New Stamford School, we welcome applicants of almost all nationalities with age up to 50 years old. However, it is important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for obtaining a Thai education visa may vary depending on the applicant’s country of citizenship. It is always recommended to check with the Thai embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for the most up-to-date information.

A: Yes, it is possible to apply for a course with New Stamford School while you are not in Thailand. The school offers an online application process that allows you to apply and submit all required documents electronically.

A: The eligibility for applying for an education visa for a Thai course may vary depending on the specific requirements of the Thai embassy/consulate you are applying to. Some Thai embassy/consulates may have restrictions on the number of times a student can apply for an education visa for a Thai course, while others may not. It’s always best to check with the specific Thai embassy/consulate for their requirements and process. Additionally, it’s always best to consult with the school’s staff for guidance and assistance throughout the process.

A: It is possible to convert some types of tourist visas to a Thai education visa without having to leave Thailand, but it is important to check the specific requirements and procedures with our school as the requirements and eligibility criteria can change from time to time. Factors such as your passport holder’s country, current visa type, and travel history will be taken into consideration by immigration when deciding on your eligibility for in-country visa conversion. Additionally, those who have a previous history of overstaying or have held other types of visas may face additional restrictions or requirements. It is important to consult with our school to fully understand the process and requirements before applying for a visa conversion.

A: It is not necessarily required to have a certain level of Thai language proficiency to apply for a Thai education visa, but it depends on the specific school and the visa application requirements of the Thai embassy/consulate you are applying to. Some schools may require a certain level of Thai language proficiency, while others may not. New Stamford School, in particular, offers Thai lessons from scratch, so you do not need to have prior knowledge of the language to enroll.

Visa Options for Courses

A: New Stamford School offers a Thai for Foreigners Program with course durations of 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

A: The program fees vary depending on the course duration and the method of applying for the visa.

When obtaining an education visa abroad at a Thai embassy or consulate:

  • 3 months: 14,000 THB
  • 6 months: 21,900 THB
  • 9 months: 34,900 THB
  • 12 months: 38,900 THB

When converting your visa without leaving Thailand (if eligible):

  • 3 months: 31,000 THB
  • 6 months: 38,900 THB
  • 9 months: 41,900 THB
  • 12 months: 53,900 THB

The fees for converting your visa within Thailand are higher due to the additional costs associated with the in-country visa conversion process.

A: The program fees include:

  • Tuition fee
  • Immigration extension fee (1,900 baht every 90 days) for the duration of the course
  • A student certification letter for opening a bank account
  • A student status certificate letter

A: The program fees do not include:

  • Embassy visa application fee
  • Immigration re-entry fee if you plan to leave the country during your stay
  • Other additional costs outside the normal scope of the application, such as international postage fees, delivery fees, and transportation fees

A: Yes, New Stamford School offers an English Language Program with course durations of 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

A: The program fees vary depending on the course duration and the method of applying for the visa.

When obtaining an education visa abroad at a Thai embassy or consulate:

  • 3 months: 19,800 THB
  • 6 months: 32,800 THB
  • 9 months: 42,800 THB
  • 12 months: 49,800 THB

When converting your visa without leaving Thailand (if eligible):

  • 3 months: 36,800 THB
  • 6 months: 49,800 THB
  • 9 months: 59,800 THB
  • 12 months: 66,800 THB

The fees for converting your visa within Thailand are higher due to the additional costs associated with the in-country visa conversion process.

A: The program fees include:

  • Tuition fee
  • Immigration extension fee (1,900 baht every 90 days) for the duration of the course
  • A student certification letter for opening a bank account
  • A student status certificate letter

A: The program fees do not include:

  • Embassy visa application fee
  • Immigration re-entry fee if you plan to leave the country during your stay
  • Other additional costs outside the normal scope of the application, such as international postage fees, delivery fees, and transportation fees

A: You can choose to obtain an education visa abroad at a Thai embassy or consulate or convert your existing visa without leaving Thailand (if eligible).

A: Similar to the Thai for Foreigners Program, you can choose to obtain an education visa abroad or convert your existing visa in Thailand (if eligible).

 

Payment Terms

A: To enroll in the school, a deposit equivalent to the first 3 months’ program fees is mandatory. This deposit is required to initiate the visa paperwork process. The remaining balance of the program fees must be paid upon arrival in Thailand.

A: A deposit equivalent to the first 3 months’ program fees is required to enroll in the school and initiate the visa paperwork process. Once the Ministry of Education (MoE) approval has been granted, the remaining balance of the program fees must be paid within 7 days.

A: If your MoE approval has been granted and you have applied for a visa, but your visa has been refused, the school will refund the remaining balance after deducting 6,500 baht. Proof of official visa refusal is required to process the refund.

A: All cancellations without proof of visa refusal will not be entitled to a refund. The MoE approval is valid for 30 days, and you must apply for your visa within this timeframe. If you do not use the MoE approval within the given timeframe and require a re-issue, there will be an additional cost of 2,000 THB, which is only available one time.

Required Documents

A: When applying from abroad, you need to submit the following documents:

  • Completed NS Enrollment Form
  • A high-quality scanned copy of your passport
  • A digital half-body portrait with a white background of yourself
  • Proof of a deposit equivalent to the first 3 months’ program fees

A: When applying for a visa conversion within Thailand, you need to submit the following documents:

  • Completed NS Enrollment Form
  • A high-quality scanned copy of your passport
  • A digital half-body portrait with a white background of yourself
  • Proof of a deposit equivalent to the first 3 months’ program fees

Additionally, after receiving the MoE approval letter, you will need to visit the school in person and provide:-

  • Original Passport
  •  TM30 registration for your Chiang Mai address
  • Proof of the remaining balance of the program fees

A: The digital half-body portrait must meet the following requirements:- Recent photo taken within the last 6 months

  •  High-quality image in either .JPG or .PNG format
  • White background
  • Centred, with a straight look and a neutral expression
  • No shadows on the face or background
  • Glasses should be removed
Language Proficiency Requirements

A: The Thai Language Program offers courses designed for learners at various proficiency levels. It’s recommended to consult with our school’s staff to determine the most suitable course level based on your current proficiency in Thai. Our courses are structured as follows:

  • THF100: Preparatory Course – Preparatory Thai Fundamentals (12 hours)
  • THF101: Level 1 – Starter – Thai for Foreigners (ED Visa) (48 hours)
  • THF102: Level 2 – Elementary – Thai for Foreigners (ED Visa) (48 hours)
  • THF103: Level 3 – Intermediate – Thai for Foreigners (ED Visa) (48 hours)
  • THF104: Level 4 – Advanced – Thai for Foreigners (ED Visa) (48 hours)
  • TLB101: Thai Language and Business Culture for Foreigners (48 hours)
  • TLT101: Thai Language Proficiency for Teachers – Tailored for educators seeking to enhance their Thai language skills in classroom settings. (48 hours)

A: The English Language Program offers courses tailored to various proficiency levels. It’s advisable to consult with the school’s staff to determine the most suitable course level based on your current English language skills. Our courses are structured as follows:

  • ENL200: Preparatory Course
  • ENL201: Level 1 – Starter (CEFR A1)
  • ENL202: Level 2 – Elementary (CEFR A2)
  • ENL203: Level 3 – Pre-intermediate (CEFR B1)
  • ENL204: Level 4 – Intermediate (CEFR B1+)
  • ENL205: Level 5 – Upper Intermediate (CEFR B2)
  • ENL206: Level 6 – Advanced (CEFR C1)
Fees Associated with Thai Education Visa

A: The fees include:

  • Visa application fee: Approximately 2,000 Thai Baht, which may vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply. Please note that this fee is not included in the course.

Immigration extension fee: 1,900 Thai Baht every 90 days, payable directly to immigration. These fees have been included in our course.

Immigration re-entry permit fee: 1,000 Thai Baht for a single-entry permit, or 3,800 Thai Baht for a multiple-entry permit. It’s important to note that your visa will be automatically canceled if you leave the country without obtaining a re-entry permit. Please note that this fee is not included in the course.

These fees are subject to change, and the amounts provided are intended as a general guideline only.

A: The cost of the program varies depending on the course duration and visa option chosen. For example, our Thai for Foreigners course offers a 3-month course with an education visa obtained abroad for 14,000 THB, while a 12-month course costs 38,900 THB. For detailed program and price information, please download the program and price list from the following link: 2024 NS Education Visa Course Package

A: The program fees include tuition, immigration extension fees (for the duration of the course), a student certification letter for opening a bank account, and a student status certificate letter.

A: The cost of the program varies depending on the course duration and visa option chosen. For example, our English language program offers a 3-month course with an education visa obtained abroad for 20,800 THB, while a 12-month course costs 50,800 THB. For detailed program and price information, please download the program and price list from the following link: 2024 NS Education Visa Course Package

A: The program fees include tuition, immigration extension fees (for the duration of the course), a student certification letter for opening a bank account, and a student status certificate letter.

Class Schedules

A: The class schedule may vary depending on the course duration and the school’s current offerings. It’s best to consult with the school’s staff for more information on the specific class schedule. Normally, we offer online classes for 1 hour a day, 4 days a week. The timing depends on the level; for example, classes could be held from Tuesday to Friday, either from 11:00 to 12:00 or from 13:00 to 14:00. For onsite classes, we offer 2 hours a day, 2 days a week. The timing again depends on the level; for instance, classes could be scheduled on Tuesday and Thursday from 15:00 to 17:00, or on Saturday and Sunday from 13:00 to 15:00.

A: The class schedule may vary depending on the course duration and the school’s current offerings. It’s best to consult with the school’s staff for more information on the specific class schedule. Normally, we offer online classes for 1 hour a day, 4 days a week. The timing depends on the level; for example, classes could be held from Tuesday to Friday, either from 11:00 to 12:00 or from 13:00 to 14:00. For onsite classes, we offer 2 hours a day, 2 days a week. The timing again depends on the level; for instance, classes could be scheduled on Tuesday and Thursday from 15:00 to 17:00, or on Saturday and Sunday from 13:00 to 15:00.

Thai Education Visa Requirements and Application Process

A: The requirements for obtaining a Thai education visa vary depending on the specific institution and program of study, but generally, applicants are required to provide proof of enrollment in a course of study, proof of financial support, and a valid passport.

A: Yes, it is possible to apply for a Thai education visa at a Thai embassy or consulate abroad. However, it is important to check the specific requirements and procedures for the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply.

A: It depends on the specific Thai embassy or consulate where you plan to apply. Some embassies and consulates accept e-visa applications, while others do not. It is important to check the specific requirements and procedures for the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply.

A: The processing time for a Thai education visa application can vary depending on the specific embassy or consulate where you apply. It can take several days, weeks or even months to process the application.

A: Yes, there is a fee for applying for a Thai education visa. The fee amount varies depending on the specific embassy or consulate where you apply and the type of visa you are applying for.

Thai Education Visa Validity and Extension

A: A Thai education visa is typically issued for a period of 90 days but can be extended for the duration of the course of study.

A: You can apply for an extension of your Thai education visa at the Chiang Mai Immigration office. The extension process may be repeated every 90 days, for a total duration of up to 12 months, as long as the student is making satisfactory progress in their studies and meeting the other immigration requirements. Keep in mind that the process may take some time and an overstay will incur penalties. It’s always best to inform New Stamford School at least 45 days in advance of your intended extension, in order to provide you with the necessary support and guidance throughout the process.

A: After completing your education visa for up to 12 months, you will have a few options. One option is to leave the country and apply for a new course and a new visa from your home country or another country of your choice, if you plan to come back to Thailand. Another option is to apply for a higher course without having to leave Thailand. New Stamford School offers a higher course with the university that we can assist you with for your second year.

It’s important to plan ahead and take into account the expiration date of your education visa and the time it takes to process a new visa application. It’s also a good idea to consult with the school’s staff to have a better understanding of the options available to you.

Traveling and Leaving Thailand During Studies

A: You can leave Thailand during your studies, but you must first obtain permission from the school by submitting a leave request. The duration of your leave is at the discretion of the immigration officer, but it’s important to note that your education visa is a single-entry non-immigrant ED visa. If you plan to travel outside of Thailand, you must request a re-entry permit before departing, which can be obtained at any immigration office or airport. A single re-entry permit costs 1,000 baht, or you can apply for a multiple re-entry permit for 3,800 baht if you plan to travel multiple times. It’s important to note that you must return to Thailand before your visa expires in order to apply for a new visa extension. Failure to return to Thailand before the visa expires will result in the termination of your visa and automatic withdrawal from the school, with no refund of your tuition fee.

A: It is not recommended to depart Thailand without cancelling your education visa first. Failure to properly cancel your visa can result in overstay fines and penalties and may also affect your ability to obtain a visa in the future. Additionally, leaving without cancelling your visa can also affect your student status, tuition fee, and future plans with the school. It is recommended to inform the school and follow the proper process for cancelling your visa before departing. Consult with the school’s staff for guidance and assistance throughout the process.

A: If you overstay your Thai education visa, you may be subject to fines and/or deportation. Additionally, it may also affect your ability to obtain future visas to enter Thailand. It is important to ensure that you apply for an extension or leave the country before your visa expires to avoid any issues.

Visa Cancellation and Withdrawal from Course

A: Yes, it is required to cancel your education visa after completing your studies. You are required to report to the immigration office within 14 days of completing your studies to have your visa cancelled. The process may require you to submit certain documents such as a certificate of completion or a letter from the school confirming the completion of your studies. Additionally, it’s always best to consult with the school’s staff for guidance and assistance throughout the process.

A: If you need to withdraw from the course before completion, you will need to inform the school as soon as possible. The school will provide you with the necessary instructions and information on how to proceed, including cancelling your visa. The process may require you to submit certain documents such as a letter of withdrawal or a letter from the school confirming your withdrawal. It is also important to be aware that early withdrawal may result in the loss of tuition fees in accordance with our refund policy. Additionally, it’s always best to consult with the school’s staff for guidance and assistance throughout the process.

Accompanying Family Members and Dependents

A: Unfortunately, it is not possible to apply for an accompanying visa while holding a Thai education visa at New Stamford School. The Thai education visa is intended for students who are enrolled in a full-time language course and is not meant to cover family members or dependents. If you wish to bring family members with you to Thailand, they will need to apply for a separate visa category that is appropriate for their purpose of stay, such as a tourist visa. It is always recommended to check with the specific embassy or consulate where your family members plan to apply for the most up-to-date information.

A: It depends on the specific circumstances. Generally, family members are not eligible to accompany a student on a Thai education visa. However, you may be able to apply for a dependent visa for your spouse and/or children if they will be living with you in Thailand during your studies.

Working and Studying Restrictions

A: Holders of a Thai education visa are not allowed to work in Thailand while they are on this type of visa. Engaging in employment while on a Thai education visa is considered illegal and can result in visa termination.

A: It is not possible to transfer your current education visa to another course or institution while you are in Thailand. If you wish to change your course or institution, you must first cancel your current visa and apply for a new one at the new institution. However, it is important to note that the process of visa conversion can be complicated, and it is always recommended to check with the immigration authorities and the new institution for their specific requirements and procedures.

Medical Requirements

A: There are no specific vaccinations or medical requirements for obtaining a Thai education visa. However, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to ensure that you are up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations and have a valid travel health insurance.

Visa Application Restrictions

A: Yes, some nationalities are required to apply for visas exclusively from their own country. These include Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Cuba, Djibouti, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon, Lesotho, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Rwanda, Sao Tome, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

A: It depends on your nationality. If you are from one of the countries listed in the first answer, you must apply for a visa exclusively from your own country. Other nationalities may have the option to apply for a visa from other countries, but it’s best to check with the Thai embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Visa Conversion Restrictions

A: No, nationals from Iraq, Israel, Palestine, Nigeria, and Iran are unable to convert their visa to an ED visa within Thailand as of January 10, 2024.

A: Yes, nationals from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Iran, Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, Togo, and Uganda are not permitted to extend their visa for an additional 30 days. However, they can still convert their visa to an ED visa and request a special 7-day extension. If the 7-day extension is granted, they will not be able to convert their visa within the country subsequently.

A: Yes, if you are from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Iran, Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, Togo, or Uganda, you can still convert your visa to an ED visa. However, if you are granted the special 7-day extension, you will not be able to convert your visa within the country after that.

 

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