Oman is emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for skilled foreign workers in 2026, driven by tax-free salaries, a safe living environment, and expanding sectors such as construction, healthcare, IT, logistics, and oil and gas. Professionals from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines are actively exploring opportunities in the country. To legally live and work in Oman, foreign nationals must obtain a work visa, which is issued through the Royal Oman Police in coordination with the Ministry of Labour. The work visa is employer-specific, meaning it is tied to a single sponsoring company, and changing jobs requires canceling the existing visa and applying for a new one. In most cases, the visa is issued for two years, matching the duration of the employment contract.
To be eligible in 2026, applicants must be between 21 and 60 years of age, hold a confirmed job offer from a licensed Omani employer, and be hired for an occupation approved by the Ministry of Labour. A clean criminal record supported by a police clearance certificate and medical fitness clearance from recognized medical centers is mandatory. The employer is responsible for securing labour clearance before the visa can be issued.
Applicants must prepare several documents before the process begins. These include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a signed employment contract, passport-sized photographs with a white background, a labour license issued by the Ministry of Labour, a medical fitness certificate, attested educational qualifications, a police clearance certificate from the home country, and the employer’s commercial registration documents.
The process typically begins once a confirmed job offer is received. The employer then applies for labour clearance from the Ministry of Labour. After approval, the applicant gathers and attests all required documents, which the employer submits to the Royal Oman Police or through the official eVisa system. The applicant completes the required medical examination, and upon visa approval, can travel to Oman. Within 30 days of arrival, the worker must apply for a resident card (Omani ID), after which employment can formally begin under Omani labour laws.
Work visa fees generally range between 20 and 50 Omani rials, depending on the job category, with temporary and specialized visas carrying different costs and validity periods. Most standard work visas are issued for two years and can be renewed before expiry.
Prospective workers are advised to verify the legitimacy of employers to avoid scams, keep copies of all official documents, and remember that changing employment requires visa cancellation and reapplication. Overstaying or working without proper authorization can result in fines, deportation, or legal action. Applicants from Pakistan must also obtain the Protector of Emigrants clearance before traveling. With proper planning, documentation, and adherence to official procedures, Oman continues to offer strong career prospects, financial benefits, and a stable work environment for expatriates in 2026.
