Age: 21

Nationality: South African

Hi all,

I've been in the Kingdom nearly 6-months now and almost used up my double entry tourist visa. I plan to depart for Penang in 2 weeks time. I am looking to a Non-Ed visa whilst I study Thai for a short while. I have a couple questions:

1) The Thai Consulate in Penang, do they also process 3-month ED visas for the smaller language schools or only the longer 1-year university Ed visas?

2) I think I have all the supporting documentation;

1) Letter from language school requesting the Non-Ed visa

2) Copy of license of school signed by director

3) A letter from the Ministry of Education of Thailand approving school and Non-Ed visa

4) Receipt of payment

There is nothing I have missed is there? I do not need a ticket showing my exit of Thailand after 3-months do I?

3) I have heard good things about Jim's Place or Malibu's in Penang, should I use their service or do it on my own since I have the documentation?

4) Any recommendations of getting to Penang from Bangkok and back would be great? I am looking into the train and flights.

Anyone who has done this visa run or that of a similar nature to Penang is welcome to inbox me.

All replies will be appreciated though...

Thanks very much,

Jason

You should not have a problem with documents you listed.

It is up to you whether you use an agent or not but does make it easier because you don't have to make the trip to the consulate.

Train (sleeper) or plane are about the only good options from Bangkok.

Why are you going to Penang? From Bangkok Vientiane or Savannakhet Laos is a lot shorter trip.

Thanks,

I am going to Penang because I feel it would be more pleasant than Laos. Plan to spend a couple days there and check out the place. I have a friend in Thailand who recommended Malaysia above any neighbouring country. He has always done his visa runs there and says it is always pleasant and smooth.

Consider Laos but would like to spend a little time by the ocean so settled on Penang.