Oman, a small country in the south of the Arabian Peninsula that shares borders with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, has a lot to offer business people and investors from all over the world. Oman is a Middle Eastern country with a population of just over five million. Despite appearances, it is approximately 30% larger than the United Kingdom. Famous for its terraced orchards, fortifications, ancient mosques, rolling sand dunes, and vibrant culture, Oman is the oldest autonomous state in the Arab area. Although work visas are available, foreign nationals are limited in the industries and occupations they can pursue once within Oman. Information about Oman’s investor visa, including requirements and how to apply, is provided below.

Oman’s Investor Visa Program

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the Sultanate of Oman oversees the government’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment. “In the context of the Sultanate’s effort to encourage the establishment of businesses and attract foreign investments, the Sultanate focuses on its policy of encouraging foreign capital to push the development movement to reduce reliance on oil and diversify sources of national income,” the Ministry said. As part of its efforts to improve the Sultanate’s attractiveness as an investment destination, the government revised its tax code in 2000. In this regard, the Sultanate provides a number of amenities, including first-rate physical infrastructure, reasonable corporate taxes (as well as tax exemptions for some types of organisations), and efforts to streamline the process of starting a firm and improve corporate transparency.

The purpose of the Omani investor visa is to encourage foreign entrepreneurs and investors who meet the requirements to establish and manage a business in the Sultanate of Oman. Foreign investors also have the option of purchasing an existing firm in Oman (i.e. become a shareholder in an existing Omani company).

Visas for investors in the Sultanate of Oman are valid for up to two years and can be extended in advance. If an investor or entrepreneur wants to extend their stay in Oman, they’ll need to prove that they still fit the criteria for receiving a renewal investor visa and that they have no intention of withdrawing their investment from the country.

The Omani Investment Residency Program (IRP): What is it?

Beginning in September of 2021, the Omani Investment Residency Programme (IRP) will be available to those who qualify. The program’s goal is to boost foreign direct investment in key sectors like tourism, mining, logistics, agriculture, fishing, healthcare, education, and information technology (IT). Promoting a greener circular economy in Oman is a primary goal in implementing the IRP. Those who qualify under this programme will be able to obtain a renewable long-term resident permit valid for either five or ten years. The purpose of the Omani investor visa is to encourage foreign entrepreneurs and investors who meet the requirements to establish and manage a business in the Sultanate of Oman. Foreign investors also have the option of purchasing an existing firm in Oman (i.e. become a shareholder in an existing Omani company).

Visas for investors in the Sultanate of Oman are valid for up to two years and can be extended in advance. If an investor or entrepreneur wants to extend their stay in Oman, they’ll need to prove that they still fit the criteria for receiving a renewal investor visa and that they have no intention of withdrawing their investment from the country.

Eligibility for an Oman Investor Visa

To obtain an investment visa in Oman, one must meet the following conditions:

• The investor or business owner needs permission from Oman’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry. They need evidence that the applicant is a serious foreign investor with access to necessary capital. The amount, industry, and investment strategy of the proposed investment must all be disclosed by the applicants.
• In addition, the Omani Ministry of Manpower must issue a work visa (MOM)
• To invest in Oman, one needs also have a residence visa.

How to Apply for an Investor Visa for Oman?

The following is a step-by-step guide (written from the perspective of someone applying from outside Oman) to obtaining an investor visa for Oman:

1. Submit an application to the Omani Ministry of Commerce and Industry for investment approval.
2. To obtain a work visa in the Sultanate of Oman, you must contact the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
3. Investors and businesspeople can obtain entrance visas to Oman at their local embassy or consulate.
4. After arriving in Oman, an investor or entrepreneur can apply for a residence permit.

There is no minimum investment required, however a higher investment has a better probability of being approved for immigration. To qualify for an investor visa in Oman, most applicants must demonstrate that they have invested at least US$100,000 (about 40,000 Omani Rials).

Documents Required to Apply Investor Visa for Oman

• Two passport photos of the investor or business owner (6 x 4 cm)
• Copy of the person’s passport, which must be valid for at least six months
• If you are investing in an existing Omani business, you will need a copy of the partnership agreement.
• If you want to invest in an existing business, you’ll need a copy of their business registration from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and a copy of their membership card from the Oman Chamber of
• Commerce and Industry.
• A detailed plan for spending money
• Proof that there are funds to invest
• The work permit from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry
  People from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Syria, and Nepal must bring the original and a copy of their medical certificate.
• If the foreign worker wants to bring their spouse with them, the Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs must stamp a copy of the marriage certificate.

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