Bluelink – A-to-A Visa Change in Dubai Made Easy: Everything You Need to Know
Changing your visa while in the UAE has become easier than ever. In a previous time, you would have needed to fly out of the country and wait to have a new visa approved. But now, whether you want to switch from a tourist visa to an employment visa, or a cancelled residency to a visit visa, we will explain the A-to-A visa change Dubai process so you know how to switch from one UAE visa to another without even leaving the country.
In this blog, we will explain how Dubai visa assistance services, like Bluelink Global Visas, can help make the visa change process easy, stress-free, fast and fun.
What is an A-to-A visa change in Dubai?
An A-to-A visa change in Dubai simply means changing your visa within the UAE – without leaving the country. In the past, people had to travel to a nearby destination, such as Oman, or fly home to their country and enter the UAE again with a new stamp and fresh visa. The whole process could take a long time, cost a lot of money, and be very exhausting.
And now, with the new UAE visa services in Dubai, the government allows people to change their visas while still in the country.
Now, you don’t actually have to leave and pay for a visa run. The term “A to A”. This refers to “Airport to Airport” visa changes that meant you literally left the country for a short period of time. Now, it refers to “Adjustment to Adjustment” or “Amendment to Amendment” using the current immigration rules of the UAE.
This service is particularly beneficial if:
- Your current tourist visa is expiring and you want to switch to a new tourist visa.
- You’re switching from a tourist visa to an employment visa.
- Your employment contract was cancelled and you need to stay in the UAE while getting a new visa.
- You want to switch to a dependent visa or investor visa.
Why is the A-to-A visa change relevant?
Here’s why this is a game changer:
- No travel issues
You don’t need to book flights, wait in airports, or worry about entry permits. Everything happens while you relax in the UAE.
- Time and Money Saving
Visa runs can add up—tickets, hotels, meals, and the unknown of delays. This A-to-A visa change takes all of that away.
- Legal Stay in the UAE
This service allows you to legally stay in the country whilst changing visas, and you won’t have to worry about the possibility of overstaying which can lead to fines and stress.
- Expedited Visa Processing
With great processing agencies now approved and streamlined in Dubai, you will usually be able to swap visas within 2–4 working days.
Who is Eligible to Apply for an A-to-A Visa Change in Dubai?
Most people holding a UAE Visa, regardless of visa eligibility, can apply, including;
- Tourists intending to stay longer in the UAE.
- Job seekers changing to a work visa.
- Residents where their visa has expired or is cancelled.
- Students or dependents changing visa category.
However, there are extra rules to consider based on your nationality and visa type; therefore, it makes sense, and is smart to use a professional Dubai visa assistance service such as Bluelink Global Visa.
Documents needed for an A-to-A visa change
Required documents will differ; even though the exact documents will vary. Here is the information that is a requirement;
- Copy of your passport (valid for a minimum of 6 months).
- Copy of current visa documentation.
- Passport-sized photo with white background.
- Copy of your old visa or visa cancellation paper (if applicable)
- New visa sponsor documents (if applying for change to work visa or dependent visa).
- Emirates ID application form (for certain visa types).
What’s the Time Frame for a Visa Change from A-to-A?
Typically, it takes around 2 to 4 business days, depending on the type of visa and your documents. Some UAE visa services in Dubai also offer express services if you are short on time.
Cost of A-to-A Visa Change in Dubai
The total cost is dependent on several factors:
- Type of visa (tourist, employment, investor, etc.)
- Duration (30 days, 60 days, 90 days)
- Nationality
- Level of urgency (standard vs. express)
On average you may expect a cost generally between AED 1000 to AED 2500, inclusive of service fees. Be sure to check with a Dubai visa processing agency that you trust will give you the accurate cost.
How Can I Apply for A-to-A Visa Change?
You can apply for A-to-A visa change through numerous sources, including:
- Travel agencies
- PROs (Public Relations Officer) services
- Dubai visa assistance companies.
However, there are issues resolved in the background by your visa service partner, not all of these agencies are reputable. Some commission delays for your application, or they simply miss a detail and you are told the change is rejected. That’s why it is important to choose a trusted partner.
This is where Bluelink Global Visa stands out.
Why Bluelink Global Visa?
When it comes to visa changes in the UAE, Bluelink Global Visa is a trusted name. Here is why:
- We Make It Easy
The visa process can be rather intimidating – too many forms, confusing legislation, and strict deadlines. However, Bluelink does it all for you. We make sure your documents are collected, check all application forms for accuracy, and submit your application so you don’t have to worry about any unintentional delays.
With Bluelink, you need not worry about missing documents or misunderstanding processes. We’ll guide you through the process, simplify everything, and make sure to follow up with the immigration department so you receive rapid updates.
- We Know the System
Bluelink has years of experience providing UAE visa services in Dubai. Because of this, we know how the system works, what are the current rules, rules that will impact your situation, and how to get it processed efficiently for you. It does not matter if you’re switching to a tourist visa, employment visa, or dependent; we’ve done it a thousand times and know all the short cuts (the ones that are legal!).
We are also updated with government changes. If immigration rules change, Bluelink will tell you what, if anything, it means to you, and how you can navigate your application accordingly.
- We’re Friendly, Honest, and Transparent
Let’s face it, visa services can sometimes feel sleazy, or commercial. Not at Bluelink, where you can certainly expect transparency. We tell you upfront what your costs are, there are no hidden costs involved, and there are no sugar-coated promises.
Our team of professionals are approachable too! Whether you have questions, issues, or need some clarity—our team answers the phone and genuinely cares about your case.
Tips for a Better A-to-A Visa Change
Let’s be honest, even a straightforward process can become tricky if you do not plan for it. Here are some helpful tips:
- Do Not Leave It to The Last Minute
Start your visa change 5–7 days prior to the expiry date of your current visa. This will provide a cushion for delays.
- Have your document All in Place
Double check the validity of your passport and prepare all necessary documentation when you are ready to commence the process.
- Avoid Overstaying
Ensure that even though your visa change is in process, you are still on a valid visa. Overstaying your time can lead to fines and possible bans.
- Work with a Trusted Agency
Working with a professional tends to make a difference. They will finite all the boring work, and you can concentrate on your life, work or vacation.
Can You Change to an Employment Visa via A-to-A?
Yes, absolutely. If you find a new job while on a tourist visa or your previous work visa has been cancelled, you can change to an employment visa from within Dubai via the A-to-A method.
Your new employer, or PRO team, would generally work with a Dubai visa processing agency e.g., Bluelink, to process the application and visa transfer. The important point is that you do not exit the country while having your visa status updated.
What Happens if Your A-to-A Visa is Denied?
While rejections are rare if everything’s done right, they can still happen due to:
- Incompletion of documents
- Previous overstays
- Failing medical test
- Security checks
If this happens, a good visa agency will take care of any application re-submission or alternative methods without you losing your cool or money.
A-to-A for Families, and Dependents
Families often worry about a spouse’s visa being cancelled, or about a child’s visa being in need of renewal. Here’s where A-to-A visa change is a real lifesaver – in case of visa complications, you can fix the visa situation without needing to fly away with kids or elderly families.
If applying for a dependent visa it is a must to have:
- The sponsor’s Emirates ID and proof of salary
- Proof of the relationship (marriage certificate, a birth certificate)
- Attested copies (if applicable)
Dubai visa assistance services make it easy to handle all your visa needs quickly and stress-free. An expert agency like Bluelink can help with the paperwork and attestation.
Conclusion
The A-to-A visa change in Dubai is probably one of the best services the UAE has rolled out in recent years. It is quick, legal, and saves you the hassle of having to fly out and back into the UAE just to apply for a new visa!
Whether you’re looking for a job, extending your holiday, or simply changing your visa status after a cancellation – you don’t have to pack your bags or stress, you simply prepare your documents and let the experts do their job!
That said, Bluelink Global Visa is the best partner for a smooth and stress-free visa transition. You can rest easy, sit back, and avoid the hassle or stress of going home while you wait for your new visa!
Quick recap
- A-to-A visa change = changing visa without leaving the UAE
- Applies to tourists, job-seeking visa holders, residents, and dependents
- Takes 2 – 4 working days
- No fines, delays, or stress
- Bluelink Global Visa is fast, efficient, transparent and reliable, because we are the best!
Need to switch your visa without leaving Dubai? Call Bluelink Global Visa at +971 52 936 0080 or 04 577 6971 or mail us at info@bluelinkgroup.ae with your requirements.
