Introduction: Understanding the Real Requirements for the ED Visa

If you’re planning to study in Thailand, it’s important to understand the current immigration regulations before applying for an Education Visa (Non-Immigrant ED).

While online courses were accepted during the COVID-19 pandemic, this exception has now ended.

As of today, Thailand’s ED visa requires in-person study at a licensed and accredited school. Immigration authorities carefully monitor attendance to ensure that students genuinely participate in their educational programs — not just use the visa as a way to stay in Thailand long-term.

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Why Online Courses No Longer Qualify

During the pandemic, many schools were permitted to operate online to comply with health restrictions. This allowed students to study remotely and still maintain their visa status.

However, the Thai Immigration Bureau has officially confirmed that online-only courses are no longer valid for visa purposes.

All applicants for an ED visa must now demonstrate physical attendance at a registered institution, and schools are required to report attendance records to immigration.

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Official Requirements for the Thai ED Visa

To be eligible for a Thai Education Visa, applicants must meet the following legal and procedural requirements:

1. In-Person Attendance

You must attend classes physically in Thailand at a licensed educational institution.

Failure to attend classes can result in visa cancellation or rejection of extension requests.

2. Full-Time Enrollment

Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time course recognized by the Ministry of Education or the Thai Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI).

Part-time or irregular attendance is not accepted.

3. School Verification

The school is legally responsible for reporting your attendance and participation. Immigration officers may conduct random inspections or request school confirmation letters to verify that you are attending classes as required.

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Required Documents for the ED Visa Application

When applying for or renewing your ED visa, prepare the following documents:

•Completed ED Visa Application Form

•Letter of Acceptance from an accredited school in Thailand

•MOE (Ministry of Education) approval letter

•Copy of your passport with sufficient validity

•Financial proof showing ability to support your stay

•Recent passport-sized photographs

Your school will often assist with the official paperwork submitted to the Ministry of Education before you apply for the visa.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many foreigners mistakenly assume that enrolling in an online Thai language or short course can qualify for a visa.

This is no longer the case. Immigration authorities are now stricter than ever about verifying genuine education purposes.

Avoid:

•Enrolling in unlicensed or unapproved online schools

•Using the ED visa for non-educational purposes

•Failing to attend classes regularly

Doing so could lead to visa denial, blacklisting, or future immigration issues.

How OneStop Hua Hin Can Help

At OneStop Hua Hin, we work directly with accredited language schools, universities, and training centers in Hua Hin to ensure that your ED visa process is handled correctly and legally.

Our team can assist you with:

✅ Finding a licensed school

✅ Preparing the required documentation

✅ Submitting your visa application

✅ Understanding immigration updates and renewal requirements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can foreigners still apply for an ED visa in Thailand in 2025?

✅ Yes. Foreigners can still apply for an Education Visa (ED) in Thailand, provided they enroll in a full-time, in-person course at a licensed educational institution approved by the Ministry of Education.

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Q2: Are online language courses accepted for the Thai ED visa?

❌ No. Online or remote study programs are no longer eligible. You must physically attend classes in Thailand to maintain visa validity.

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Q3: What are the main requirements to qualify for an ED visa?

Applicants must:

•Enroll full-time in an accredited school

•Attend classes regularly in person

•Provide a valid acceptance letter and MOE approval

•Have sufficient financial means to support their stay

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Q4: Can I switch schools after getting my ED visa?

✅ Yes, but only with immigration approval. The new school must be accredited and provide updated documentation to the Ministry of Education.

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Q5: How often does immigration check school attendance?

Immigration may conduct random checks or contact your school to verify attendance. If you’re frequently absent, your ED visa can be revoked.

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Q6: Can I work in Thailand with an ED visa?

❌ No. The ED visa is strictly for education purposes. Working or earning income on this visa is illegal and can result in visa cancellation or deportation.

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Q7: How long is the ED visa valid?

Typically, an ED visa is valid for 90 days initially, and can be extended every 90 days for the duration of your approved course — up to one year or more depending on the program.

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Q8: Are Thai language schools eligible for the ED visa?

✅ Yes, but only if the school is licensed and MOE-approved, and classes are conducted in person. Attendance and participation are strictly monitored.

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Q9: What if I stop attending classes or leave Thailand temporarily?

If you stop attending or leave the country without proper re-entry documentation, your ED visa may automatically expire or be refused for renewal.

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Q10: How can OneStop Hua Hin help me with my ED visa?

OneStop Hua Hin partners with accredited schools and offers full support for your ED visa application, extensions, and compliance.

We ensure your documentation is accurate and that your visa remains valid under current immigration laws.

Final Thoughts

If you plan to study Thai language, culture, or other academic programs in Thailand, remember that online classes alone no longer qualify for the ED visa.

To stay compliant with Thai immigration law, you must attend classes in person and maintain regular attendance verified by your school.

Further information can be found at the link provided: https://mfa.go.th/en/index

For peace of mind and professional assistance, contact OneStop Hua Hin — your trusted partner for visa, education, and expat services in Thailand.