Oman immigration has become a topic of growing interest for people looking to live, work, or invest in the Middle East. The country's rich and diverse culture, natural beauty, and generous ambiance offer a unique experience that sets it apart from its regional counterparts. For most nationalities, especially those who are seeking jobs or starting businesses, the process to immigrate to Oman is pretty straightforward.
It's a safe, modern place, and expats tend to enjoy the best quality of life, thanks to an excellent work-life balance. While some professionals and families tend to migrate for a change of pace, others (as in the case of the full-time nomad) relocate for the sheer beauty of Oman's natural landscapes and the diverse, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets that Oman offers.
Oman Entry Requirements
All foreign visitors to Oman, except citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council, must have a valid visa for the duration of their stay. You will require a visit visa to enter Oman if you want to travel there for business purposes or to gather information before moving there. One type of visa for visitors allows for one entry, while the other allows for multiple entries. Obtaining a single-entry tourist visa at any Omani mission overseas is possible.
You can extend it for another month if you apply at the Directorate General of Passports and Residence. Usually, it is valid for one month. Eligible country nationals can easily obtain a visit visa at any official entry point upon arrival (visa on arrival system). Everyone else must get a tourist package from an officially recognized travel agency to obtain a visa.
Visas Required for Oman Immigration
Foreign nationals must have one of the following types of visas to move to Oman:
1. Work Visa/Labor Permit
To work in Oman, you must use the employment visa sponsorship scheme.
To be eligible for this type of visa, you must be a foreign national between the ages of 21 and 60 and have a verified offer of employment from an Omani company. Your prospective employer sponsors your visa. Your Omani employer must ask the Ministry of Manpower for labor clearance.
Sometimes, they may also need to contact a professional association in your industry. The HR department will inform you of the travel documents (such as professional credentials, degrees, and references) needed for this step of the application process. Here are the general requirements to work in Oman and obtain a work visa:
- The sponsor needs to be a local body with complete legal authority.Â
- Work visa applicants must be at least 21 years old
- The foreign worker must be the same gender as the person listed on the labor permit issued by the Ministry of Manpower.
- The occupation listed on the visa application must match the one on the labor permit.
2. Family Visa
Oman immigration is quite popular for the purpose of reuniting with family. The family joining visa is issued to a foreign employee's spouse and dependent children under the age of 21. It is also given to a foreign spouse of an Omani national upon their request and in accordance with a marriage license from the Ministry of the Interior. Family members of the sponsor are permitted to live in Oman with the visa and have their Omani passport, but they are not permitted to work there. Here are the general requirements:
- By GCC standards, the expatriate spouse must hold a senior position.
- Living in a rental home in their own or their employer's name
- Receiving a salary of at least RO 600 per month.
- A copy of the marriage certificate for a foreign spouse of an Omani national, verified by the embassy of their respective nation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Oman, and a certificate from the Ministry of Interior attesting to the marriage.
3. Student Visa
This is given to a licensed educational or training facility on behalf of an international student. Here are the general requirements:
- Valid within six months of the date of issuance.Â
- Good for stays of one to two years from the date of entry into Oman.
- Renewable for an equivalent amount of time if the holder wishes to continue their education; this must be backed up by a letter from the training or educational institute.
Documents Required for Oman Visa Application
Before starting your travel plans, the immigration authorities or Omani officials will need you to submit some documents for your visa application. They include:
- Visa application form
- A valid passport
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Evidence of a clear criminal record
- Proof of accommodationÂ
- Health insurance
- Employment contract
- Income Tax Return (ITR)
- Proof of admission into the Oman University
How to Apply for an Oman Visa
An Omani employer, an Omani institution, or an Omani resident usually sponsors Omani long-term visas. They usually complete the application process for foreign nationals. However, there's an Oman E-visa for short stays. The Royal Oman Police introduced the electronic visa to streamline the application procedure for a tourist visa to Oman. You can now apply for an eVisa online to visit Oman. The steps are as follows:
1. Fill out the form: On the official Omani application portal, complete the Oman e-visa application form, indicating your desired visa.
2. Attach the relevant documents: Scan and attach the necessary documents for your desired visa. Refer to the visa section above for the necessary paperwork.
3. Submit the application: Once you've finished filing and uploading your documents, submit for approval. You will receive an email confirmation. This is all that is required to apply for an Oman e-visa.
Oman Visa Fees
- Omani work visa cost 50 Omani Riyal ( $129)
- Omani student visa cost 20 Omani Riyal ($51)
- Omani family joining visa costs 20 Omani Riyal ($51)
An online visa to Oman typically takes a few business days to process. Family visa processing time is usually about 4 weeks. However, applying well before your anticipated travel date is best. Express processing alternatives are also available at an extra cost to help you get your visa even faster.
Visa Sponsorship
Most people might consider Oman immigration, but they can’t afford it. Students or unemployed/retired individuals who cannot fund their travel expenses must demonstrate support from a sponsor who will bear the entire cost. The sponsor is entitled to specific criteria, including filing an official letter declaring that they would be responsible for the traveler for the duration of the trip. They must also describe the link with the guest, as only first-grade relatives are qualified for this position.
Cost of Living in Oman
Thankfully, Oman has a reasonably inexpensive cost of living for its permanent residents. Muscat came in at 92 out of 209 global expat locations in the 2017 Mercer Cost of Living Survey. This makes it one of the least costly cities in the Middle East, alongside Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which are ranked in the top 25. One issue with expats living in Oman is a lack of job stability due to the government's “Omanization” strategy, which prioritizes locals over international employees.
Parents must also consider costly international or private school tuition for expat children: according to the Expat Insider 2017 survey, 45% of respondents with children in Oman believe education is expensive. During pay negotiations, you could aim to incorporate tuition fees as one of your benefits. Furthermore, while most expatriate employment contracts include health insurance, employer-provided healthcare plans frequently exclude specific clinics, mental health treatment, and dental care. So don't forget to include the expense of supplemental health insurance while making your budget!
Benefits of Moving to Oman
Here are the advantages of Oman immigration:
1. Rich Cultural Heritage
Oman's deep-rooted customs and cultural history provide a distinct perspective on Arabian life. The country protects its historical sites, such as forts and mosques, and invites visitors to learn about its rich history. Omani hospitality is known for its warmth and respect, which enhances your cultural immersion.
2. Amazing Natural Beauty
Unlike many Gulf countries known for their dry terrain, Oman has a lush, tranquil, and scenic environment. From its picturesque coastlines, calm lakes, towering mountain ranges, and verdant farmland, Oman displays nature's magnificence. Swimming, hiking, boating, camping, and open-air diving are among the activities available to outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Exceptional Healthcare
Both locals and foreigners can get exceptional medical care services in Oman. You may get first-rate medical treatment all year long if you have comprehensive health insurance. Insurance provides peace of mind and well-being by paying for primary care, specialist visits, and related medical treatments when necessary.
4. Modern Infrastructure
Oman's infrastructure is advanced, with modern airports, seaports, and an extensive road network. Muscat International Airport connects to various global destinations, making travel easier. The city is working to improve its infrastructure by developing healthcare facilities, shopping malls, and educational institutions.
5. Accommodation
Accommodation is usually included in a full job contract when you arrive in Oman. Some firms provide a cash allowance for rent, frequently allowing expats to select a house and even communicate directly with the landlord. Muscat is a tiny city. Therefore, finding a home outside the city center is possible. Foreign nationals can drive from one side of town to the other in 40 minutes.
Conclusion
Oman immigration opens the door to a fulfilling life in a country that values tradition, hospitality, and growth. It offers a stable and welcoming environment with clear pathways for work, residence, and investment. For many, moving to Oman marks the beginning of a rewarding personal and professional journey.
