Volunteer & Humanitarian
Volunteer Visa (Non-O Volunteer) – Thailand
Commit to a humanitarian cause in Thailand (2026)
What is the Volunteer Visa?
The Non-Immigrant O (Volunteer) Visa is for foreigners wishing to perform unpaid volunteer work within a charitable organization, a public foundation or a recognized NGO in Thailand.
Who is this visa for?
Compatible Profiles
- • Volunteers in registered foundations.
- • Humanitarian workers on mission.
- • Elephant aid / animal protection.
Incompatible Profiles
- • Short-term voluntourism (< 30d).
- • People without an official invitation.
- • Workers seeking to avoid the Business visa.
Length of stay and validity
Initial Duration
90 days
Total Max
1 Year (Extensions)
Essential conditions and criteria
- Official letter from the organization registered in Thailand.
- Copy of the foundation / NGO license.
- Work Permit mandatory (even for volunteering).
- Criminal record often required for teaching.
Regulations & Work
Beware of the 'Grey Area'
Many agencies sell fake 'Volunteer Visas'. Immigration monitors this very closely. If you cannot prove actual activity during a check, your visa will be cancelled immediately.
Renewal
This visa can be renewed annually at Thai Immigration, as long as the organization confirms your volunteer role.
Important Restrictions
Work Permit Required
Attention: Volunteering is considered work. A Work Permit is legally mandatory in addition to the visa to be compliant.
Need help with your file?
The volunteer visa requires complex documentation. We help you check compliance.