Changing Non-Immigrant "B" To Non-Immigrant "Ed" Visa

[Petertimo]

I have looked on Thaivisa before to find some information about changing visa types at local immigration offices, amazingly enough I couldn't find a topic that was actually dealing with my particular situation. So hereby I would like to tell my experience with changing visa types ("b" to "ed") so things will be easier for the next person.

I have been trying to change my non-b visa to a non-ed at the immigration office in Phitsanulok. On the phone they told me very convincing that this would not be a problem and could be done at their office. Nevertheless, after arranging all the paper work (letters from the university and all the copies that Thai officials are so fond of) I was told that they can't change my non-b visa to non-ed. Apparently it is only possible to change a tourist visa to a non-immigrant "ed" visa at the local immigration office. The only way to change a business visa to a student visa is by applying for a new visa at a Thai embassy, thus outside Thailand.

[lopburi3]

Actually expect if they can change a tourist visa they could change a visa exempt entry also as it is almost the same process (different form number).