Facing visa expiration in the UAE? Worry not. A rising number of travelers are now opting for a budget-friendly visa change by bus — a convenient and cost-effective alternative to expensive flight options. Whether you are on a visit visa or have recently undergone residence cancellation, the bus service from Dubai to Oman for visa change offers a reliable solution for many, especially citizens of India, Sri Lanka, Philippines, and Nepal.
In this article, we break down the full process, costs, rules, expert advice, and updated requirements, making it easier for you to plan your next move without any last-minute stress.
What is Bus-to-Bus Visa Change for UAE Visit Visa Holders?
Visa change by bus (commonly called “bus-to-bus”) is a legal and fast method where travelers exit the UAE by bus to a nearby border, usually Oman, and return after processing a new visa. It is a popular method among tourists and job seekers aiming for Visit visa UAE renewal by bus without the hefty cost of air tickets.
Why Choose Bus Service from Dubai to Oman for Visa Change?
Affordable Compared to Flights
Flight ticket costs can spike, especially during peak seasons. Bus services offer fixed, low-cost options starting as low as 900 AED for some nationalities after residence cancellation.
Faster Processing Time
In many cases, travelers return within 24–48 hours with their new visa.
Flexible Options for Various Nationalities
Currently, Indian, Sri Lankan, Filipino, and Nepali passport holders are eligible for these services.
Detailed Cost Breakdown for Visa Change by Bus (2025)
Below are the latest rates for budget visa change options:
| Nationality | Visa Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | Visit Visa Holders | 1300 AED | Sharjah Visa (No deposit) |
| India | Residence Cancellation | 900 AED | Dubai Visa (Abscond AED 2400) |
| Other Nationalities (Sri Lanka, Philippines, Nepal) | Visit Visa Holders | 1440 AED | Sharjah Visa (No deposit) |
| Other Nationalities (Sri Lanka, Philippines, Nepal) | Residence Cancellation | 1050 AED | Dubai Visa (Abscond AED 2400) |
📢 Note: Only travelers with a Guarantee Copy will be accepted. On overstaying, an Abscond case will be triggered with penalties starting from 3400 AED.
(Source: Internal immigration services communication – April 2025)
Eligibility for Bus-to-Bus Visa Change
If you are on a visit visa (tourist visa or family visit visa) and need to renew your stay legally, you are eligible for a bus-to-bus visa change, provided:
- Your visa is still valid or within the UAE’s permitted overstay grace period.
- You have a confirmed visa change package with a licensed travel agency.
Note: Overstaying without renewal can lead to fines of AED 50 per day as per ICP UAE regulations (source: u.ae).
How the Bus Visa Change Process Works
Here’s a step-by-step guide to how the Bus-to-Bus visa change process happens:
- Booking:
- Contact an authorized travel agent.
- Submit your passport copy, photo, and guarantee copy.
- Travel to Border:
- Board the bus from Dubai or Sharjah to Oman border (Hatta or Khatm Al Shakla).
- Exit UAE:
- Immigration stamping for UAE exit.
- Oman Entry and Exit:
- Short stay at the Oman border.
- No full entry required in many cases.
- Return to UAE:
- Re-enter once your new UAE visa is issued electronically.
- New Visa Activation:
- Print your e-visa and complete the re-entry process at UAE immigration.
Documents Needed
Make sure you have:
- Original passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Two passport-size photos
- Copy of your existing UAE visa
- New visa application or confirmation if pre-arranged
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Cash or card for incidental expenses at the border
Important Rules to Know
- Visa Guarantee Copy is Mandatory: Without it, you cannot proceed.
- Sharjah Visa Advantage: No deposit required for eligible nationalities.
- Absconding Cases:
- If overstayed, an absconding case will be filed.
- Absconding fines start from 3400 AED and can complicate your re-entry.
Expert Opinions: Why the Bus Route Remains Popular
“Bus-to-bus visa change is not only economical but reduces the time spent outside the UAE,” says Ahmed Raza, Visa Specialist at DubaiVisaDesk.
“It helps jobseekers, freelancers, and tourists save on airline costs, and the process is pretty straightforward if done through a licensed agent,” he adds.
Meanwhile, a Gulf News article (April 2025) also highlights that around 25,000 travelers chose land border visa runs in the first quarter of 2025, indicating a 40% rise compared to last year.
(Source: Gulf News Visa Update, 2025)
Benefits of Bus Visa Change for Visit Visa and Cancelled Residence Visa Holders
- ✅ Lower cost than air ticket visa changes.
- ✅ Faster turnaround for new visa issuance.
- ✅ Less paperwork compared to airport exit.
- ✅ Support for Absconded cases (with applicable fines).
- ✅ No need to wait for visa inside UAE after cancellation.
Challenges and Cautions to Consider
- ❌ Unregistered travel agencies can cause visa delays.
- ❌ Overstaying even one day triggers heavy fines and abscond case.
- ❌ Not all nationalities are eligible – only India, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Nepal at present.
Alternative Options: In-Country Visa Renewal
While bus-to-bus is cheaper, some travelers prefer in-country visa renewals at a higher cost (typically AED 1600–2000) for convenience.
But, recent updates (April 2025) show that inside country renewals have stricter document checks and can take 5–7 working days longer than bus change.
Top Trusted Companies for Bus Visa Changes in Dubai
When selecting a service provider, choose from companies approved by UAE immigration authorities. Recommended agencies often include:
- Harf Typing & Documents Clearing (specializing in Indian, Sri Lankan, Filipino, Nepali nationalities)
- Akber travels (Link)
- Air Arabia Visa
Always verify their Dubai Economic Department (DED) license before proceeding.
FAQ About Budget-Friendly Bus Visa Change and Residence Cancellation
1. How long does a visa change by bus take?
Generally, the process takes 1–2 days if your documents are complete and there’s no backlog at immigration.
2. What happens if I overstay my visit visa before the bus visa change?
You can still proceed with a visa change, but an absconding charge of AED 3500 may apply. Always plan 2–3 days ahead.
3. Is the guarantee copy really necessary for a bus visa change?
Yes. Without the guarantee copy (visa application proof), immigration will deny your exit and re-entry.
4. Can I use bus-to-bus service after my UAE residence visa is cancelled?
Absolutely. This is one of the most recommended methods after residence cancellation to switch back to a visit visa.
5. Is the bus visa change option open for all nationalities?
No. As of April 2025, it’s limited to Indian, Sri Lankan, Filipino, and Nepali passport holders only.
What the Future Holds: Bus Visa Change Services in 2025 and Beyond
The UAE continues to prioritize tourism and business growth.
In 2025, according to Dubai Tourism Authority, the UAE aims to attract over 5.31 million visitors (Source: News report), emphasizing smoother immigration and visit visa facilities.
Land border services, including visa runs by bus, are expected to become even more organized with:
- Online booking portals
- Real-time bus tracking apps
- Multi-lingual staff at checkpoints
- AI-based identity verification systems
Important Tips for a Smooth Visa Change
- Stay Updated: UAE visa rules change frequently; double-check with your agent before booking.
- Carry Snacks and Water: Border waiting times can vary.
- Respect Local Laws: Dress modestly and be polite to immigration officers.
- Stay Connected: Some operators provide Wi-Fi on board.
- Prepare for the Weather: Oman borders can get hot—carry sun protection.
