How to obtain a residence permit for Oman

Obtaining residency in Oman opens the door to life in one of the most dynamic countries in the Middle East. Beautiful natural landscapes, a stable economy and a unique culture make Oman attractive to foreigners seeking new opportunities to live, work or do business. There are several investment options available to obtain a residence permit in Oman. In this guide, let's take a look at what investment options are available and how they differ.

A little about Oman

Oman is a state in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, washed by the waters of the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. Its strategic location makes the country an important point on the maritime trade routes between Asia, Africa and Europe.

Oman's economy is developing with an emphasis on diversification, although oil is still the main source of income. The country is actively investing in tourism, logistics, industrial production and agriculture, which is gradually reducing its dependence on the oil sector. In recent years, Oman has seen significant progress in building infrastructure and attracting investment, which has encouraged the development of small and medium-sized businesses.

Oman's climate is dry and hot, especially in the summer months when temperatures can rise above 40 degrees Celsius. In the winter, however, it comfortably decreases, creating a pleasant environment for living and traveling. Southern areas such as Salalah have a climate unique to the region with periodic monsoons, making this corner of the country a green oasis in the summer.

Life in Oman combines tradition and modernity. The population honors its cultural roots and customs, but also strives for progress, which is reflected in rising living standards and improved working conditions. The country offers high quality education, health services and security, which attracts both locals and expats from around the world.

Is there a permanent residence permit in Oman

Foreigners in Oman are not granted permanent residency status, but the country offers attractive long-term visas for investors. So-called “golden visas” allow legal residence in the country for 5 or 10 years and open up a wide range of commercial opportunities.

The “Golden Visa” program initiated by the Omani government is aimed at stimulating the inflow of foreign investments. The 5-year visa requires an investment of at least ~$650,000* and the 10-year visa requires an investment of at least ~$1,300,000*. Investments can be made not only in real estate, but also in business projects or government bonds.

Gold visa holders get the right to live and work in Oman, conduct commercial activities, purchase real estate and invite family members to live together. It is important to note that these visas require periodic renewal and do not automatically turn into permanent residency.

In addition, foreign entrepreneurs can open their own company in Oman and obtain a residence permit under the same investment conditions. The amount of capital required depends on the chosen economic sector and the organizational form of the business, but usually corresponds to the amounts required for golden visas.

Thus, despite the lack of permanent residence permits for foreigners, Oman provides long-term visas allowing to live and work in the country under certain investment conditions.

Benefits of the Golden Visa:

The Oman Gold Visa grants foreign investors the right to reside in the country for five or ten years with the possibility of renewal. This status allows for employment and business activities without the need for a local sponsor, making it much easier to do business in Oman. Investors are also given the opportunity to purchase properties outside of tourist complexes, expanding their real estate investment opportunities.

An added benefit is the ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children, for residency. This creates a favorable environment for families to relocate and settle in the country. Gold visa holders are also authorized to hire up to three employees to work in the private sector or in the household, which promotes business development and quality of life.

To qualify for a gold visa, an applicant must meet a number of requirements. The applicant's age must be at least 21 years old, and the absence of a criminal record confirms the applicant's trustworthiness. It is necessary to have valid health insurance for yourself and family members, as well as to provide evidence of financial solvency and readiness to invest in the economy of Oman.

The procedure for obtaining a visa includes several stages. First, the investor chooses the most suitable investment option. Then it is necessary to collect a package of documents, including passport, proof of investment, medical certificates and other necessary papers. Once the documents are prepared, an official application is submitted to the relevant Omani government authorities. The final stage is to review the application and, in case of a positive decision, to obtain a visa.

The Golden Visa program opens unique opportunities for foreign investors in a country with a dynamically developing economy and a favorable investment climate. There are several investment options available for obtaining a residence permit in Oman, making this program accessible to individuals of varying financial means.

Main areas of investment

• Real estate investments
  Foreign investors have the opportunity to buy commercial/residential real estate to obtain a visa. The cost of investment starts at ~$650,000*. This option allows you to move to the country with your family members.
• Investing in business or starting a company
  Oman supports entrepreneurs by granting residency status to investors who invest in local companies. The starting amount for a business would be ~$650,000*. This option allows foreigners to start new companies or invest in companies already operating in the market, creating jobs and contributing to the economy.
• Investing in government bonds
  For those who prefer a less active involvement in the economy, there is the option of investing in government bonds. The rates here are the same as for the other options - from ~$650,000* or from ~$1,300,000* depending on the length of residency desired. This option also allows for renewable residency.

These investment programs allow foreigners to not only obtain long-term residency, but also enjoy extensive rights to conduct business, purchase real estate and live with family in Oman.

Easy to obtain Oman visa for investment

One World Migration provides professional support in obtaining Oman residence permit, offering full support at every stage - from choosing the best visa program to preparing and submitting documents. We will help you navigate the requirements of the Omani migration system to ensure that your move goes smoothly and without delay.

*Prices are quoted at the Omani riyal to dollar exchange rate at the time of publication.