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Thailand passport and visa information

Passport

To study abroad, you must have a signed, valid passport from your country of citizenship that will not expire for a minimum of six months after your planned return date. If you do not have a passport, or it's about to expire, make sure you apply or renew as soon as possible! U.S. Citizens can refer to the U.S. Department of State’s website for more information about passports and processing time.

Visa

A student visa is permission by a foreign government to live and study in that country. U.S. passport holders must obtain a student visa prior to departure.

It’s not possible to apply for a student visa more than 90 days before departure. Applying early within this time period is recommended to ensure you receive your visa before departure. The application process is completed entirely online and does not require an in-person appointment at the consulate.

Traveling internationally prior to the start of your study abroad program could impact your visa or visa application process and is discouraged.

Thai student visas are valid for 90 days from the approval date. During orientation, USAC staff will explain how to renew your visa if needed. All visa costs are your responsibility.

Further information will be posted to your Student Gateway account in the Visa Guide. You will receive this after you’ve been accepted into the program, about four months prior to the program start. A USAC Program Advisor will also be available to answer any visa questions you may have.

All costs related to obtaining a visa, including travel, are your responsibility. Visa fees are subject to change at any time and remain at the discretion of the South African government.

Non-U.S. citizens

Check with your home country consulate, as well as the embassy of the country in which you plan to study, regarding visa requirements. Permanent Residents of the U.S. should check with U.S. Immigration as leaving the country for more than one year may jeopardize permanent resident status. Tax clearance and re-entry forms may also be necessary in these cases.