Obtaining Work Visas in Oman

Oman is the second largest country on the Arabian Peninsula and enjoys a strategic location along important maritime trade routes. This business-friendly hub is on the rise, attracting expat professionals who want to be a part of its thriving economy.

If you’re a company looking to bring in foreign talent, understanding the work visa process is crucial for compliance and a smooth transition. This will guide you through the different types of work visas in Oman, the application process, required documentation, and other considerations.

Types of Work Visas in Oman

Work visas in Oman are usually sponsored by an employer and allow foreign employees to legally work and live in the country. The main categories are:

1. Resident Work Visa: This is the most common type and is valid for up to two years. It can be renewed and is tied to the employee’s residency. The employer is responsible for the employee’s residency.
2. Temporary Work Visa: Perfect for project work or short-term assignments, this visa is available in 4, 6, or 9-month increments.
3. Partner Visa: For company owners or investment partners in an Oman business. 
4. Employment Contracting Visa: This is a less common option for specialised or freelance professionals and is valid for up to two months, with a one-month extension possible.

Family visas are also available for trailing spouses and children and student visas for those studying in Oman based universities or educational institutions. 

Eligibility & Requirements for an Oman Work Visa

Before starting the application process, both employers and employees must meet certain criteria:

Employer Criteria:

• Must be a registered company in Oman with a valid commercial licence.
• Is responsible for obtaining a labour permit from the Ministry of Manpower.

Employee Criteria:

Required Documents for Application

Employers will need to gather the following documents for each application:

• Completed visa application form (available on the Royal Oman Police website).
• Two recent passport-sized photos.
• Copy of the employee’s passport with at least six months’ validity.
• Approved labour permit from the Ministry of Manpower.
• Medical certificate, if required, attested by the Ministry of Health.
• Occupation-specific approvals (if applicable, e.g. teaching or medical certifications).
• Release letter from a previous employer if the employee was previously working in Oman within the last two years.

The Application Steps

1. The employer must first obtain a labour permit from the Ministry of Manpower, which verifies the job role is eligible for foreign hire. Certain occupations, such as teaching or medical work, may require additional permits or approvals from relevant embassies or professional associations.
2. Once approved, the employer can submit the application and supporting documents to the Royal Oman Police.
3. The employee will need to undergo a medical examination at an authorised clinic. Citizens of specific countries may need a certified certificate.
4. Once approved, the visa will be stamped in the employee’s passport, allowing them to legally work and live in Oman. For cases involving a transfer of sponsorship, a release letter from the previous employer, approved by the Ministry of Manpower, is required.

Validity, Renewal, and Costs of an Oman Work Visa

Work visas in Oman are typically valid for up to two years and can be renewed. Employers should plan ahead and initiate the renewal process before the visa expires to avoid fines, which can accumulate to 50 OMR per month for delays. Renewal involves repeating medical exams and resubmitting necessary paperwork. The standard fee for an Oman work visa is 20 Omani Rials (OMR), with employers usually covering this cost along with additional expenses for medical tests and document attestation. These government costs can also be subject to changes. 

What to Be Aware of in Oman

• Sponsorship Responsibilities: The employer must act as the sponsor and is responsible for ensuring all documentation is correct. When transferring sponsorship, a release letter from the previous sponsor, authenticated by the Ministry of Manpower, is necessary.
• Compliance: Incomplete applications, criminal records, or discrepancies in documentation can result in visa denials.
• Medical Certificates: Some nationalities may require specific medical certificates to complete their application. Certain occupations may also require additional permits from relevant embassies or professional associations.

The work visa process in Oman is complex and requires attention to detail, but by following the steps outlined above and complying with regulations, you can ensure a smooth transition for foreign hires.

Sovereign PPG has comprehensive knowledge of the Omani market and established relationships with government bodies and regulatory authorities. We can simplify the work visa process for your company, taking care of everything from labour permits to visa applications and compliance management. If you need assistance with work visas, company setup, or PRO services in Oman or the wider GCC region, contact us at +971 (0)4 456 1761 for Dubai or +971 (0)2 448 5120 for Abu Dhabi, email oman@SovereignGroup.com, or complete the contact form below.