STEP 1: What type of visa do I need?
You will be applying for a Non-Immigrant Visa category ED before your departure.
For year and semester programs, AFS-Thailand will assist you in applying for a residence permit after your arrival.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time.
STEP 2: How do I apply for the visa?
You must apply for your visa through the Embassy or Consulate General of Thailand that has jurisdiction over the state where you live. Depending on the state you live in, you will either apply in-person or via mail. Please research the directions for your respective consulate before applying.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time.
STEP 3: What documents do I need to collect in order to apply for the visa?
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A list of required documents will be sent to you by your Visa and Compliance Specialist. Some of which include:
- Your physical U.S. Passport or Travel Document or Green Card
- A Recent Bank Statement
- Copy of your birth certificate
- Copy of your parents’/guardians’ marriage certificate
- Copies of your parents’/guardians’ passports or their state-issued IDs
- Notarized Parental Consent Form
- *You will also need to contact your consulate for a finalized list of requirements.
STEP 4: When do I apply for the visa?
You will need to wait for AFS Thailand to send you required visa support documents for your visa application. Once you receive these documents, it is necessary that you apply for your visa immediately!
If Applying Via Mail:
You will apply for your visa around 4 weeks prior to your program departure.
If Applying In Person:
You will apply for your visa no later than 3 weeks prior to your program departure.
STEP 5: How much will the visa cost?
The current visa application fee is between $80-$200.
STEP 6: Are there any other expected costs?
There are many additional costs involved in obtaining, notarizing, and mailing the required documents.
If you are on the Semester or Year Programs, you may also be required to extend your visa after three months. The visa extension fee is around USD $65 (must be paid in Thai Baht).
*Fee subject to change at any time.
STEP 7: Are any of these costs covered in my AFS program fee?
No, your program fee does not cover any of the costs related to obtaining your passport or visa.
STEP 8: Can I travel before the start of my program?
You should not plan any excursions outside of the United States two months prior to your program. As stated, obtaining a visa takes time and your passport will be required. If you travel before the start of your program and do not allow enough time to obtain your visa, you may need to depart late for your program. Your new departure date may be 2-4 weeks after your original departure date.
Fees and requirements are determined by immigration authorities and are subject to change at any time.