Non O (Volunteer) Visa

Many tourists are under the false impression that they can volunteer in Thailand with no VISA.

Or trade house sitting, pet sitting, etc. for free rent for short stays.

All of this is false.

To volunteer in Thailand you need a Non O (Volunteer) Visa and a Work Permit.

A Thai Non-Immigrant “O” (Volunteer) visa allows foreigners to perform unpaid volunteer work for state enterprises or social welfare, non-profit, or non-governmental organizations in Thailand. 

An initial single-entry visa is typically valid for 90 days, with the possibility of extending the stay for up to a year at an immigration office. 

To apply, you will need a passport, a completed application form, photos, and supporting documents from both yourself and the Thai organization

Eligibility

• You must be performing volunteer work for a Thai state enterprise, social welfare organization, NGO, or other non-profit organization.
• The work must be unpaid. 

Visa validity and extension

• Initial stay: The single-entry visa is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue. 
• Extension: You can apply for an extension of stay for up to one year at a Thai Immigration Bureau office after you have entered Thailand. 

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

• Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. 
• Visa application form: A completed and signed application form. 
• Photographs: Recent photographs (usually 3.5 x 4.5 cm or 2×2 inches) that meet specific requirements, such as a white background and a full-face view. 
• Invitation/Support Letter: A letter from the organization in Thailand that you will be volunteering for. This letter should include details about your position, responsibilities, and length of stay. 
• Organization’s registration documents: A copy of the organization’s registration certificate. 
• Financial proof: Depending on the embassy, you may need to show proof of financial support, such as a bank statement showing a certain amount of money (e.g., 30,000 Baht). 
• Flight details: A copy of your flight itinerary to Thailand. 
• Other documents: Depending on your nationality and the specific embassy, you may need other documents like a copy of your ID card or a copy of the organization’s Thai identification card or work permit of the authorized person. 

HOW TO APPLY

1. Contact the organization: Coordinate with the Thai organization to get the necessary letters and documents confirming your volunteer position. 
2. Contact the embassy/consulate: Find the specific requirements for the Thai embassy or consulate where you plan to apply. You can apply either before you travel to Thailand or, in some cases, at an immigration office inside Thailand. 
3. Submit your application: Submit all required documents, the application form, and the application fee. 
4. Await approval: The processing time varies depending on the embassy and your nationality. 
5. Enter Thailand: Once approved, you can travel to Thailand.
6. Request an extension: If needed, apply for an extension of your stay at a local Immigration Bureau office. 

The VISA Fee is US $80.

If you get volunteering with no VISA will get arrested and deported.

The law is quite clear.