The Non-Immigrant O Visa for volunteering (Non-O Volunteer) is a type of Thai visa issued to foreign nationals who intend to engage in volunteer work within Thailand. This visa is aimed at individuals who plan to work with registered charities, non-profit organizations, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) without receiving any form of payment.
To apply for a Non-Immigrant O Visa (Volunteer), applicants generally need to provide:
- Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity beyond the intended period of stay, with at least one empty page for a visa stamp.
- Visa Application Form: A completed and signed application form for the Non-Immigrant Visa.
- Recent Photographs: Passport-sized photos that meet Thai visa requirements.
- Invitation or Acceptance Letter: A letter from the hosting organization in Thailand, detailing the volunteer work, the duration of the project, and the organization’s credentials.
- Proof of Financial Means: Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Thailand (the required amount can vary, so it’s advisable to check the specific requirements with the Thai embassy or consulate).
- Additional Documentation: This can include details about the organization, a copy of the organization’s registration, and possibly a police clearance certificate, depending on the requirements set by the Thai embassy or consulate where you apply.
The duration of stay granted under the Non-Immigrant O Visa (Volunteer) typically does not exceed 90 days but can be extended depending on the length of the volunteer project and in accordance with Thai immigration policies.
It’s important to note that this type of visa requires coordination between the applicant and the host organization in Thailand. The organization usually needs to be recognized and approved by Thai authorities for foreign volunteers.
Applicants should ensure they obtain the most recent and relevant information on visa requirements and application procedures by consulting the nearest Thai embassy or consulate. They should also start the application process well in advance of their intended travel date to accommodate any processing delays and to ensure all documentation is correctly prepared and submitted.
