Visa and immigration

The Non-Immigrant ED visa#

Most degree-seeking international students study in Thailand on a Non-Immigrant "ED" (education) visa, tied to your enrolment at the university. TU International Affairs is your main point of contact for the paperwork this requires; they issue supporting letters you'll need for visa and extension applications.

90-day reporting#

If you stay in Thailand continuously, immigration law requires you to report your address every 90 days. This is a routine notification, not a new visa application, but missing the deadline can result in a fine. Options usually include:

• Reporting in person at an immigration office.
• Reporting online, where available.
• Some universities help coordinate group reporting for students, so ask TU International Affairs whether this is offered.

Re-entry permits#

If you plan to travel outside Thailand and return on the same visa, you will need a re-entry permit before you leave; otherwise your visa may be automatically cancelled the moment you exit the country. Re-entry permits can usually be arranged at the airport or an immigration office before departure. Plan this ahead of any trip home or regional travel.

Extending your visa#

Student visas typically need periodic extension to remain valid for the length of your programme. Extensions are usually processed at an immigration office; for Bangkok-based students, this often means Chaeng Watthana Government Complex, though requirements and locations can change. Bring every document your university tells you to bring. Incomplete applications are the most common cause of delay.

A general note on staying compliant#

• Keep photocopies (and photos on your phone) of your passport, visa page, and departure card at all times.
• Set calendar reminders well ahead of your 90-day and extension deadlines, not on the due date itself.
• When in doubt, ask TU International Affairs before you act. Individual circumstances and rules can differ.

Where to go for help#

TU International Affairs is your primary resource for anything visa-related. BIRSA can point you toward the right office but cannot advise on immigration matters directly. See Contact BIRSA if you need help figuring out who to ask.