ED visa from Penang - use agent or go direct?

[simon43]

In a few weeks from now, (after I get the supporting documents back from the language school), I will visit the Thai consulate in Penang to apply for a single-entry, 90-day ED visa to study Chinese, (in preparation for opening my new guesthouse where most guests are expected to be Chinese).

After completing my study of Chinese for 3 months, I will apply for a B visa and WP for this new business, (Thai company is being registered right now).

I have previously applied successfully for ED visas from Penang, and have always used one of the visa agents on Chula Street.

But I have heard rumours that some of these agents are now 'out of favour' with the consulate in Penang, a fact that could put a successful visa application at risk.

Bearing in mind the expected increase in ED applicants, (with some applicants perhaps not justified to obtain said visa), would it be better to visit the consulate directly, rather than using an agent? With a direct visit, I will have stand in line etc, but at least I have the opportunity to present myself as neatly dressed etc and serious about learning the language.

Or is there an agent in Penang who is favoured by the consulate, and who can increase my chances of a successful visa application?

[craigp]

I always found that the schools did all the paper work for the ED visa, nothing has ever been a problem for me with that.

How about your business? Was it easy to register? What route did you go down? I mean 'partnership? Sole trader?

Also, I have many Chinese students that would be more than happy to talk to a westerner via Skype to improve their English and help you with your Chinese.

[ubonjoe]

I have not heard about any agents not being accepted at the consulate. Perhaps there are some shady ones that they don't like.

Banana guest house and Jim's have been reported to be good ones.

I think I would gone for a single entry non-o for having a Thai child. You would have a better chance of getting the work permit application accepted with it than an ED visa. Since you will not qualify for an extension. If you can get the work permit you could then go back to Penang for a multiple entry non-b visa.

[simon43]

I always found that the schools did all the paper work for the ED visa

Yes they do. But recent feedback from Penang suggests that some of the Chula Road visa agents who can go to the consulate on your behalf are out of favour with that consulate, whilst other agents are now more favoured. I am sure that the consulate will be inundated with new ED visa applications and I want to ensure that I avoid 'negative points' with my application and agent.

The business is being registered as a limited partnership and I will be employed as the manager. Hope to have all papers ready for a non-immigrant B and wp in about 6 weeks.

Simon

@Ubonjoe, I'm not trying to get a WP with this ED visa. I want to improve my conversational Chinese and the delay in my business registration paperwork gives me time to do a few months of study, then return to Penang for a non-imm B visa.