Oman Introduces Work Visa 2026: Eligibility Criteria, Required Documents, and Application Process Explained

Oman is emerging as a preferred destination for skilled foreign workers in 2026 due to its tax-free salaries, stable living conditions, and expanding job market. Industries such as construction, healthcare, information technology, logistics, and oil and gas continue to attract expatriates from countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. To legally live and work in Oman, foreign nationals must obtain an Oman work visa, which is issued by the Royal Oman Police in coordination with the Ministry of Labour.

An Oman work visa is an employer-sponsored permit that allows foreign workers to work for a specific company in the country. The visa is employer-specific, meaning workers cannot change jobs without canceling their existing visa and applying for a new one. In most cases, the visa is valid for two years and is aligned with the employment contract issued by the Omani employer.

To be eligible for an Oman work visa in 2026, applicants must generally be between 21 and 60 years of age and have a confirmed job offer from a licensed company in Oman. The offered occupation must be approved by the Ministry of Labour, and applicants must present a clean criminal record along with a valid police clearance certificate. Medical fitness clearance from approved medical centers is also mandatory. Before the visa can be issued, the employer must secure labour clearance from the authorities.

Applicants are required to prepare several documents before the application process begins. These typically include a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a signed employment contract, recent passport-sized photographs, a labour license issued by the Ministry of Labour, a medical fitness certificate, attested educational documents, a police clearance certificate from the home country, and the employer’s commercial registration details.

The application process starts once the applicant receives a confirmed job offer from an Omani employer. The employer then applies for labour clearance, after which the required documents are prepared and attested. The visa application is submitted by the employer to the Royal Oman Police or through the official eVisa system. Applicants must complete medical examinations at authorized centers before traveling. After visa approval, the worker can enter Oman and must apply for a resident card within 30 days of arrival before officially starting employment.

The cost of an Oman work visa generally ranges between 20 and 50 Omani rials, depending on the nature of the job and visa type. Temporary and specialized work visas may have different fees and validity periods. Most standard work visas are valid for two years and can be renewed before expiry, subject to continued employment.

Foreign workers are advised to verify the legitimacy of their employer to avoid fraudulent job offers and keep copies of all important documents, including employment contracts and resident cards. Changing employers requires proper cancellation of the existing visa, and overstaying or working illegally can lead to fines, deportation, or legal action. Applicants from Pakistan must also obtain Protector of Emigrants clearance before departure.

With strong economic prospects, career growth opportunities, and a secure living environment, Oman continues to be a top destination for expatriates in 2026. By following the correct procedures and ensuring all documentation is in order, foreign workers can successfully secure an Oman work visa and begin their professional journey in the country.