Good news for foreign students studying for bachelors, masters and doctorates in Thailand, the Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa (Non-ED Plus) is here! In July 2024, Thailand announced that students can extend their visa for up to one year after graduation in order find work or simply enjoy life in the land of smiles.

This is a welcome change for students who may not have a solid plan right after graduation. It can take time to research potential employers, land interviews and get hired. Also, new graduates may wish to take a leisurely sabbatical before jumping into the workforce for the next few decades.

How can I apply for the Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa?

The extension must be applied for by the student’s educational institution, i.e. the university they are graduating from.

If I get hired in Thailand with the Non-ED Plus visa, do I need to leave the country to get a new visa?

If fresh graduates are hired in Thailand during that year, the Non-Immigrant ED Plus visa can be swapped for a Non-Immigrant B visa which then allows the applicant to obtain a work permit. This can be done in Thailand and there is no need to leave the country and apply for a new visa from overseas.

Can I leave Thailand and come back with the Non-ED Plus visa?

Fortunately the new “Plus” visa includes the privilege to leave and re-enter Thailand without a re-entry permit, meaning you can come and go as you please.

The visa extension is a positive step in retaining more talent by making it easier for graduates to make use of their Thai university education here in Thailand.