Schools need dialogue with MFA re visa applicants

[bapak]

TV recently had a meaningful meeting with Immigration regarding visas. What is needed now is the same with Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

We deal with many Thai Consulates, both in nearby countries and elsewhere in the World with respect to the issue of Education Visas. Since August, they all seem to have different requirements.... and some change again regularly.

An example. Because we are located on the Bangkok/Butterworth, we haved used Penang for over 5 years. No hassle because they know that we only deal with legit students, and the their paperwork requirements have always been meet, often with more material then required. Suddenly the past 10 days, applicants are being refused due to the lack of a "letter". When the applicants inquire as to what "letter", they get a negative response.

We have emailed, faxed, and attempted to phone (never answered) for details of this "letter" requirement. Absolutely no response.

Have phoned MFA and can get no sense from them.

Mentioned only Penang above but they are not alone.

London and Los Angeles, which was always a pain, now seem to be easier.

So TV (George) can you organize dialogue with MFA on behalf of Ed Visa applicants and Language schools?

[bapak]

Might add that not all legit Ed Visa applicants can afford to go to say Penang.. be refused, have to come back to the school and get new Education Documents and go to another Consulate.

[paz]

If you contact an agent in Penang they would be able to get you a copy of what is accepted by the consulate.

[bapak]

If you contact an agent in Penang they would be able to get you a copy of what is accepted by the consulate.

Had two students refused today with documents they were acceptable last Friday.

Have sent 3 emails to Penang requesting list of requirements. No response.

No schools seems to be interested in contacting MFA as a group to get some commonality... There are legit schools and students affected.