There are many reasons that foreigners enter Thailand, one of which is to study, do research, or conduct experiments or scientific research. This can be done by applying for a change to a Scientific Investigator (Researcher) Visa (RS code) for a maximum period of 90 days, if the period remaining on their current visa is more than 15 days. If they are overstaying, an application cannot be filed.

Supporting documents 

1. TM.86 only for foreigners who have Tourist Visa or Transit Visa to change the type of visa, or TM.87 form only for foreigners who do not have a visa but are allowed to stay in the kingdom, and P.30, PP.30 and PP.90 to apply for a visa.     

2. Copy of passport (such as personal information page, entry stamp, residence permit stamp (if any)), and departure card (TM.6).     

3. 1 4X6 cm or 2-inch photo.     

4. Fee of 2,000 baht. 

5. A letter from the government department at the department level to obtain or change the type of visa (to Immigration Officer Commander).

Things you should know: 

1. Applicants must come and do it by themselves every time.    

2. Applicants must have a residential notification according to Section 38 together with evidence of a residential notification.     

3. The applicant must sign every page of the document. [“Sign and certify” sounds like two actions, but it’s only one: signing.]   

4. Documents of the association, etc., must be signed by the authorized person on every page, and adding the seal of the association to each page is necessary as further certification.

5. For convenience and speed in the process, please bring complete documents and submit all original documents to the competent officer.

Source: Immigration Division 1
Tel: +66 2141 9889