Oman

When traveling to Oman, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if you require work authorization. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Oman, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business meetings
• » Attend a trade show or seminar convention
• » Tour a company facility
• » Establish a business venture or explore possibilities to set up a business venture

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Oman?

Most foreign nationals, including nationals of the European Union, the United States, and Canada, are required to obtain the appropriate category of visa in order to enter and conduct business activities in Oman. Depending on nationality, qualifications, and intended activities, business travelers may apply for a Business Visa (5A), Business Man Visa (10A), Visit Visa (25A), Visit Visa (25B), or Visit Visa on Arrival (25C). Please consult with your immigration provider prior to travel for an individual assessment to determine the appropriate visa category.

Nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) are eligible to enter Oman on visa-waivered status and conduct business activities on a short-term basis. Additionally, foreign nationals who hold a valid visa, residence permit, or citizenship in GCC countries may be exempt from visa requirements for business visits to Oman. Please obtain an individual assessment before traveling to determine your eligibility for a visa waiver.

What types of activities require work authorization?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Omani law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Oman, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Facilitating or receiving technical training
• » Technical repairs and maintenance
• » Systems installation

 
In limited circumstances, foreign nationals may be eligible for an Express Visa (8), which permits business travelers to engage in limited professional activities for a short duration. However, an individual assessment is required prior to travel to determine your eligibility and the permissible activities based on your qualifications.

If I am traveling to Oman for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

The requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Oman. The most common types of work authorization in Oman are:

• » Temporary Employment Visa and Labor Permit (short-term work authorization granted on a case-by-case basis for private entities contracted with the government)
• » Employment Visa and Labor Permit (long-term work authorization)

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Nationals of GCC countries are eligible to work and reside in Oman without obtaining work authorization. However, registrations or other formalities may be required prior to working or residing in Oman.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2020 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.