The Association of Private Schools and Non-Formal Education in Thailand has submitted a letter to the Government proposing changes to strict visa restrictions for foreign teachers and students. In particular, it suggests allowing teachers and students who are already in the country to extend their visas without having to leave Thailand.
It is also proposed to allow foreign teachers and students currently in Thailand to remain in the country until the end of the month. During this period, universities would be able to prepare the necessary documents for extending work permits and student visas.
Teachers whose work permits are about to expire or have already expired should be granted an additional 30-day stay in Thailand to allow time for preparing documents for new permits.
Foreigners holding tourist visas or other types of visas should be allowed to switch to teacher or student visas without leaving the country.
The reason for this proposal is the current shortage of foreign teachers in the country, as many have left Thailand due to the pandemic. Simplifying visa procedures would help improve the situation.
Source: The Nation