Overview
Oman provides several visa and residency pathways for foreign investors seeking to establish or manage business operations in the Sultanate. The investor visa programme has been enhanced as part of broader efforts to attract foreign direct investment and support economic diversification under Vision 2040. The Royal Oman Police, in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Labour, administers visa and residency permits for business professionals. Recent reforms have introduced longer-duration residency options and streamlined application procedures for qualified investors. Understanding the visa categories, eligibility requirements, and application process is essential for planning business activities in Oman.
Key Facts
Investor visas are typically issued as employment visas linked to the investor’s registered company in Oman. The visa application requires a valid passport, commercial registration of the Omani company, proof of capital investment, and medical fitness certificates. Residency permits are generally issued for one to two years and are renewable. Oman has introduced a long-term residency programme for high-value investors meeting specified capital thresholds. Family residency permits can be obtained for dependents of the primary visa holder. Multiple-entry business visas are available for investors who do not require permanent residency.
Regulatory Framework
Immigration and residency are governed by the Foreigners’ Residence Law and implementing regulations issued by the Royal Oman Police. The Ministry of Labour must approve work permits associated with investor and employment visas. Visa applications are processed through the Royal Oman Police online portal or at designated service centres. Investors must maintain valid commercial registration and demonstrate ongoing business activity to renew residency permits. Overstaying a visa or residency permit results in daily fines and potential travel restrictions.
Opportunities
The long-term investor residency programme provides enhanced stability for business planning and personal settlement. Free zone investors may benefit from streamlined visa processing through the respective free zone authority. Oman’s residency permits allow investors to sponsor employees and household staff. Bilateral agreements with certain countries may provide visa-free entry or expedited processing. The Sultanate is developing a premium residency programme with additional benefits for high-net-worth individuals.
Considerations
Visa processing times can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and the completeness of documentation. Medical examination requirements include tests for communicable diseases and must be conducted at approved facilities in Oman. All foreign documents submitted with visa applications may require attestation from the Omani embassy in the country of origin. Investors should maintain adequate health insurance coverage, as it may be required for visa issuance and renewal. Immigration regulations are subject to periodic updates, and applicants should verify current requirements before submission.