How to Get Permanent Residency in Oman

Getting Permanent Residency in Oman through the Oman Golden Visa program has emerged as one of the most strategically advantageous pathways for foreign investors, high-skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees seeking long-term stability in the Arabian Gulf. Updated under Vision 2040, Oman has transformed its immigration framework with expanded foreign ownership rights, streamlined digital application processes, and flexible long-term residency options that provide 5-year or 10-year renewable residence permits. Unlike traditional employment-dependent visas, the Oman Investor Residency Program offers self-sponsored independence, family sponsorship privileges, and unrestricted business mobility across the Sultanate.

This comprehensive 2026 guide provides complete details on eligibility requirements, investment thresholds in Omani Rials (OMR), approved investment routes, documentation checklists, step-by-step application procedures, processing timelines, renewal protocols, actual costs, and everything foreign nationals must know about securing permanent residency in Oman. Whether you plan to invest in property, establish a company, retire peacefully, or relocate your family to Muscat, this guide eliminates ambiguity and provides the actionable information needed for successful application.

What is Permanent Residency in Oman?

Permanent Residency in Oman refers to a government-issued long-term residence permit granted to eligible foreign nationals through the Oman Investor Residency Program, commonly known as the Oman Golden Visa. This visa system allows qualified individuals to obtain 5-year or 10-year renewable residency by satisfying specific investment, professional qualification, or retirement criteria established by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) and the Royal Oman Police (ROP) Immigration Division.

Unlike short-term employment visas that require continuous employer sponsorship, permanent residency provides self-sponsored status, eliminating dependency on employers and offering greater personal freedom. The Oman Golden Visa aligns with Vision 2040’s economic diversification strategy, which aims to attract global capital, skilled talent, and sustainable foreign investment while reducing reliance on oil revenues. The program prioritizes high-value contributors who can stimulate job creation, technology transfer, and long-term economic growth.

Key Benefits of Oman Golden Visa

Securing permanent residency in Oman delivers substantial advantages beyond simple visa extensions:

•   Long-Term Stability: Receive 5-year or 10-year renewable residence permits instead of annual employment visa renewals, providing certainty for families and business planning.
•   Self-Sponsorship Freedom: Eliminate employer dependency and gain independent status to start businesses, manage investments, or change sectors without immigration restrictions.
•   Family Sponsorship Rights: Sponsor your spouse, children under 21, and in qualifying cases, parents or domestic staff for dependent residence visas.
•   Business Mobility: Register companies, establish branches, and operate freely across all approved business sectors without local sponsor interference.
•   Property Ownership: Qualify for freehold property ownership in designated Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) and special economic zones.
•   Tax Advantages: Benefit from Oman’s zero personal income tax policy and competitive corporate tax rates (15% standard rate, reduced for certain sectors).
•   Access to Services: Open local bank accounts, obtain driving licenses, register vehicles, and access healthcare and education systems.
•   Strategic Location: Position yourself at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East with access to GCC markets and free trade agreements.

Investment Routes for Oman Permanent Residency

The Oman Golden Visa program offers multiple investment pathways. Each route has specific minimum investment thresholds and documentation requirements:

Route 1: Real Estate Investment

Minimum Investment: OMR 500,000 (approximately USD 1,300,000)

Residency Duration: 10-year renewable Golden Visa

Eligible Properties:

•   Freehold residential properties in designated Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) such as The Wave Muscat, Muscat Hills, Jebel Sifah, Yenkit, and Omagine
•   Commercial real estate in approved free zones and special economic zones
•   Off-plan properties must have construction completion certificates before residency issuance

Requirements: Property must remain under ownership throughout the residency period. Selling the property before residency expiration will result in visa cancellation.

Route 2: Business Establishment

Minimum Investment: OMR 250,000 (approximately USD 650,000)

Residency Duration: 10-year renewable Golden Visa

Eligible Business Activities:

•   100% foreign-owned Limited Liability Company (LLC) in approved sectors including technology, logistics, manufacturing, tourism, healthcare, and renewable energy
•   Branch establishment of foreign companies with registered commercial presence
•   Joint ventures with Omani partners (minimum 30% foreign ownership required)

Requirements: Capital must be fully deposited in an Omani bank account with certified bank statements. Businesses must maintain active commercial registration and comply with Omanization employment quotas.

Route 3: Specialized Professional Qualification

Minimum Investment: OMR 100,000 fixed deposit or documented annual income of OMR 20,000

Residency Duration: 5-year renewable Golden Visa

Eligible Professionals:

•   Medical doctors, specialists, and healthcare professionals with Ministry of Health licensing
•   Engineers with Oman Engineering Society registration
•   University professors and academic researchers with PhD qualifications
•   Technology experts and software developers with recognized professional certifications
•   Legal professionals licensed by the Oman Bar Association

Requirements: Professional license or certification must remain valid. Fixed deposit (if applicable) must be maintained in an Omani bank throughout residency period.

Route 4: Retirement Residency

Minimum Investment: OMR 150,000 fixed deposit or property ownership of OMR 300,000

Residency Duration: 5-year renewable retirement visa

Eligibility:

•   Applicants must be 60 years or older
•   Proof of stable pension income or retirement savings
•   Valid health insurance covering medical expenses in Oman
•   Clean criminal record with police clearance certificate

Requirements: Retirees cannot engage in commercial business activities unless they obtain separate business licenses. Health insurance must remain active throughout residency.

Complete Eligibility Requirements for Oman Golden Visa

Beyond investment thresholds, all permanent residency applicants must satisfy these mandatory requirements:

•   Valid Passport: Minimum 6 months validity remaining with blank visa pages
•   Age Requirement: Applicants must be 21 years or older (60+ for retirement route)
•   Clean Criminal Record: Police clearance certificate from country of residence, attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Oman Embassy
•   Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance covering treatment in Oman (minimum OMR 50,000 coverage)
•   Medical Fitness Certificate: Pass mandatory health screenings at approved ROP medical centers
•   Financial Proof: Bank statements covering last 6 months showing consistent balances meeting investment thresholds
•   Address Proof: Valid rental agreement or property ownership documents in Oman
•   Investment Verification: Property title deeds, commercial registration certificates, or fixed deposit certificates from licensed Omani banks
•   Character References: Professional or personal reference letters (2 minimum) attested by relevant authorities
•   Educational Certificates: University degrees or professional qualifications (for professional route), attested and translated into Arabic

Complete Documentation Checklist

Prepare these documents before starting your Oman Golden Visa application. All documents must be original or certified copies with Arabic translation and proper attestation:

Personal Documents

•   Passport copy (all pages including blank pages)
•   Passport-size photographs (8 copies, white background, 4×6 cm)
•   Birth certificate (attested)
•   Marriage certificate (if sponsoring spouse, attested)
•   Children’s birth certificates (if sponsoring dependents, attested)

Financial Documents

•   Bank statements (last 6 months, certified by bank manager)
•   Fixed deposit certificate (if applicable, from Omani bank)
•   Property purchase agreement or title deed (for property investment route)
•   Property valuation report from approved valuers
•   Commercial registration certificate (for business route)
•   Capital deposit confirmation from Omani bank
•   Business plan (for business establishment route, minimum 20 pages)

Legal & Professional Documents

•   Police clearance certificate (attested by home country MOFA and Oman Embassy)
•   Health insurance policy (covering minimum OMR 50,000 medical expenses)
•   Medical fitness certificate from ROP-approved medical center
•   Educational certificates (attested and translated, for professional route)
•   Professional license or certification (for specialized professional route)
•   Proof of address in Oman (rental agreement or property ownership)
•   Employment contract or business ownership proof
•   Character reference letters (2 minimum, from professional contacts)

Step-by-Step Application Process for Permanent Residency in Oman

The Oman Golden Visa application process involves multiple stages coordinated between MOCIIP, Royal Oman Police, and relevant government departments. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Investment Completion (2-12 Weeks)

Complete your qualifying investment before applying for residency:

•   Property Route: Finalize property purchase, transfer ownership, obtain title deed, and register with Ministry of Housing
•   Business Route: Register company with MOCIIP through Invest Easy portal, deposit capital in Omani bank, obtain commercial registration certificate
•   Professional Route: Secure employment contract or professional license, open bank account, deposit required amount
•   Retirement Route: Open fixed deposit account with licensed Omani bank or complete property purchase

Step 2: Document Preparation (3-6 Weeks)

•   Obtain police clearance certificate from your home country
•   Attest police clearance at Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your country
•   Attest police clearance at Oman Embassy in your country
•   Translate all non-Arabic documents by certified translators in Oman
•   Purchase comprehensive health insurance from approved providers
•   Prepare investment verification documents (property deeds, bank certificates, commercial registration)

Step 3: Online Application Submission (1-2 Days)

•   Access the Invest Easy digital platform (https://investeasy.gov.om)
•   Create account using valid email and mobile number
•   Select ‘Golden Visa Application’ from services menu
•   Choose investment route (property, business, professional, or retirement)
•   Upload all required documents in PDF format (maximum 5MB per file)
•   Pay application fee (OMR 200) through online payment gateway
•   Receive acknowledgment email with application reference number

Step 4: MOCIIP Review & Verification (2-4 Weeks)

•   MOCIIP reviews application for completeness and eligibility
•   Investment verification conducted (property valuation, bank balance confirmation, commercial registration check)
•   Background security checks performed by Royal Oman Police
•   Document authenticity verification with issuing authorities
•   Additional documents may be requested if information gaps exist
•   Track application status through Invest Easy portal dashboard

Step 5: Preliminary Approval & Medical Examination (1-2 Weeks)

•   Receive preliminary approval notification via email and SMS
•   Book appointment at ROP-approved medical center (Muscat, Salalah, Sohar)
•   Complete mandatory health screening (blood tests, chest X-ray, infectious disease screening)
•   Medical examination cost: OMR 30 per applicant (including dependents)
•   Medical fitness certificate issued within 3-5 working days
•   Upload medical certificate to Invest Easy portal

Step 6: Biometric Registration (1 Day)

•   Receive biometric appointment notification with date, time, and location
•   Visit designated ROP immigration office in person (cannot be delegated)
•   Provide fingerprints (all ten fingers), facial photograph, and iris scan
•   Submit original passport for visa stamp processing
•   Pay residence permit fee (OMR 500 for 5-year, OMR 1,000 for 10-year)
•   Receive temporary receipt and estimated collection date

Step 7: Golden Visa Issuance (2-4 Weeks)

•   Final verification and approval by immigration authorities
•   Residence visa stamp placed in passport
•   Digital residence card (smart card) issued with biometric chip
•   Receive SMS notification when ready for collection
•   Collect passport and residence card from ROP office with original receipt
•   Residence card includes personal details, biometrics, residency duration, and sponsor type (self-sponsored)

Step 8: Civil ID Registration (1 Week)

•   Apply for Omani Civil ID card at Public Authority for Civil Registration
•   Submit passport copy, residence card, address proof, and photographs
•   Pay Civil ID fee: OMR 5 for 5-year, OMR 10 for 10-year
•   Civil ID serves as official identification for all government and private services
•   Required for opening bank accounts, obtaining driving license, registering utilities

Complete Processing Timeline

Total Duration: 10-16 weeks from initial investment to final Golden Visa issuance

•   Investment completion: 2-12 weeks (varies by route)
•   Document preparation: 3-6 weeks
•   Application submission: 1-2 days
•   MOCIIP review: 2-4 weeks
•   Medical examination: 1-2 weeks
•   Biometric registration: 1 day
•   Visa issuance: 2-4 weeks
•   Civil ID registration: 1 week

Expedited processing is available for urgent cases with additional fees (OMR 300 for fast-track service reducing timeline by 50%).

Complete Cost Breakdown (2026)

All costs listed in Omani Rials (OMR). Current exchange rate: 1 OMR ≈ 2.60 USD

Note: Costs exclude minimum investment amounts (property OMR 500,000, business OMR 250,000, professional OMR 100,000, retirement OMR 150,000). Expedited processing adds OMR 300.

Family Sponsorship Under Golden Visa

Oman Golden Visa holders can sponsor immediate family members for dependent residence visas without additional investment requirements:

Eligible Dependents

•   Spouse: Valid marriage certificate required (attested)
•   Children: Sons and daughters under 21 years (unmarried), birth certificates required
•   Parents: Available only for 10-year Golden Visa holders with minimum annual income of OMR 30,000
•   Domestic Staff: One housemaid permitted for property investment route (OMR 500,000+)

Family Sponsorship Process

•   Apply through Invest Easy portal after receiving your Golden Visa
•   Submit family member passports, relationship certificates (attested), photographs
•   Proof of accommodation sufficient for family size
•   Health insurance for each family member (OMR 300-600 annually per person)
•   Pay dependent visa fees: OMR 100 per dependent for 5-year, OMR 200 for 10-year
•   Processing time: 2-4 weeks after Golden Visa issuance
•   Dependents receive residence visas matching sponsor’s duration

Golden Visa Renewal Process

The Oman Golden Visa requires renewal before expiration. Start the renewal process 3 months before expiry to avoid status gaps:

Renewal Requirements

•   Original investment must remain active (property ownership, business operation, professional employment)
•   Valid health insurance throughout residency period
•   Clean criminal record (new police clearance if applicant traveled outside Oman extensively)
•   Updated bank statements proving continued financial stability
•   Tax compliance certificate (if conducting business activities)
•   Passport with minimum 6 months validity remaining

Renewal Costs

•   5-Year Renewal: OMR 500 + OMR 30 medical examination
•   10-Year Renewal: OMR 1,000 + OMR 30 medical examination
•   Civil ID Renewal: OMR 5 (5-year) or OMR 10 (10-year)
•   Document attestation (if new certificates required): OMR 50-100

Renewal Processing Time: 3-6 weeks. Late renewal penalties apply (OMR 10 per day after expiry date).

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these frequent errors that cause Golden Visa application delays or rejections:

•   Incomplete Attestation: Documents must be attested by BOTH home country MOFA AND Oman Embassy. Single attestation leads to rejection.
•   Incorrect Translation: Use only certified translators registered with Oman Ministry of Justice. Personal translations are invalid.
•   Insufficient Financial Proof: Bank statements must show CONSISTENT balances over 6 months, not temporary deposits before application.
•   Property Investment Timing: Off-plan properties must have construction completion certificate BEFORE residency application. Cannot apply with sale agreement alone.
•   Insurance Coverage Gaps: Health insurance must cover minimum OMR 50,000 AND be valid for residency duration. Travel insurance is insufficient.
•   Business Plan Quality: Generic business plans without market research, financial projections, or Omanization plans lead to rejection.
•   Expired Documents: Police clearance certificates older than 3 months are rejected. Obtain fresh certificates before application.
•   Address Proof Issues: Rental agreements must be registered with Ministry of Housing. Unregistered contracts are invalid.
•   Professional License Validity: Medical, engineering, or legal licenses must be current and recognized by Omani authorities. Foreign licenses need equivalency verification.
•   Selling Investment Prematurely: Selling property or closing business before residency expires results in immediate visa cancellation and potential re-entry ban.

Oman Golden Visa vs. Other GCC Golden Visa Programs

Oman offers the most affordable Golden Visa program in the GCC with straightforward requirements, making it ideal for investors seeking cost-effective permanent residency with comprehensive benefits.

Why Choose Incorpyfy for Your Oman Golden Visa Application?

Securing permanent residency in Oman involves complex documentation, government coordination, and strict compliance requirements. Incorpyfy provides end-to-end Golden Visa application management with guaranteed approval success.

Our Comprehensive Services

•   Eligibility Assessment: Free consultation to determine optimal investment route based on your profile, budget, and long-term objectives.
•   Investment Facilitation: Direct access to pre-approved property developers, business setup services, and bank account opening assistance.
•   Document Management: Complete attestation coordination with embassies, certified translation services, and document verification to prevent rejections.
•   Application Submission: Professional preparation and submission through Invest Easy portal with real-time tracking and status updates.
•   Government Liaison: Direct communication with MOCIIP, Royal Oman Police, and Ministry of Housing on your behalf to resolve queries and expedite processing.
•   Medical Coordination: Appointment scheduling at ROP-approved medical centers with expedited processing.
•   Family Visa Processing: Complete dependent sponsorship services including documentation, submission, and collection.
•   Post-Approval Support: Civil ID registration, driving license application, school enrollment assistance, and utility setup.
•   Renewal Management: Automated reminders and complete renewal handling before expiry dates.

Our Track Record

•   95% first-time approval rate for properly prepared applications
•   500+ successful Golden Visa approvals since program launch
•   Direct partnerships with approved property developers and banks
•   Licensed business consultancy registered with MOCIIP
•   Multilingual support team (English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu)
•   Average processing time: 12 weeks from engagement to visa issuance

Ready to begin your journey toward permanent residency in Oman? Contact Incorpyfy for a free consultation and customized Golden Visa strategy tailored to your investment goals and family needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I work for a company while holding Oman Golden Visa?

Yes, Golden Visa holders can accept employment with Omani companies without transferring visa sponsorship to the employer. You maintain self-sponsored status while working freely across sectors. However, you must inform MOCIIP of employment changes and maintain minimum investment thresholds (property ownership, fixed deposit, or business operation).

What happens if I sell my property investment before the visa expires?

Selling your qualifying property (OMR 500,000+ investment) before Golden Visa expiration results in immediate visa cancellation. You must either maintain property ownership throughout the residency period OR replace it with an equivalent investment (another property or business establishment meeting minimum thresholds) and notify MOCIIP within 30 days. Failure to maintain investment triggers visa cancellation and potential re-entry ban.

Can I sponsor my parents under Oman Golden Visa?

Parent sponsorship is available exclusively for 10-year Golden Visa holders with proven annual income of OMR 30,000 or above. 5-year visa holders cannot sponsor parents. You must provide birth certificates, proof of relationship, medical insurance coverage, and demonstrate financial capability to support parents. Each parent requires separate dependent visa application with fees of OMR 200 per parent for 10-year duration.

Is Oman Golden Visa a pathway to citizenship?

No, the Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit, not citizenship. Oman does not offer naturalization through investment. However, Golden Visa provides indefinite renewal potential as long as investment conditions are maintained. Children born to Golden Visa holders in Oman do not automatically receive Omani citizenship. This residency program focuses on long-term residence rights, business opportunities, and family stability rather than nationality acquisition.

What sectors are restricted for foreign business investment?

Foreign investors cannot establish 100% owned businesses in these restricted sectors: Banking and financial services (minimum 30% Omani ownership required), insurance companies (30% local ownership), petroleum exploration, telecommunications, import-export of certain controlled goods, real estate brokerage (requires local partnership), and government contracting (sector-specific limitations). Technology, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, renewable energy, tourism, and consultancy services allow 100% foreign ownership for Golden Visa applicants. Consult MOCIIP’s Negative List (updated annually) for current sector restrictions.

How long can I stay outside Oman without losing Golden Visa?

Oman Golden Visa holders can remain outside Oman for up to 6 months per year without jeopardizing residency status. Extended absence beyond 6 consecutive months requires formal justification to Royal Oman Police (medical treatment abroad, business travel, educational purposes). Continuous absence exceeding 12 months without approved extension results in automatic visa cancellation. You must enter Oman at least once every 6 months to maintain active residency status. Track entry/exit dates carefully to avoid unintentional visa loss.

Can children over 21 years be sponsored?

Children over 21 years generally cannot be sponsored as dependents under Golden Visa. Exceptions exist for: Unmarried daughters regardless of age (special approval required), sons pursuing full-time university education with proof of enrollment (valid until graduation), and disabled children requiring permanent care (medical certification required). Adult children (21+) must apply for their own Golden Visa through independent investment or professional qualification routes. Standard dependent sponsorship covers only children under 21 years.

What are Omanization requirements for business investors?

Businesses established by Golden Visa holders must comply with Omanization quotas: Companies with 5-10 employees require 30% Omani nationals, 11-50 employees require 35% Omani nationals, and 50+ employees require 40% Omani nationals. Technology startups and specialized sectors may receive temporary exemptions (2-3 years). Failure to meet Omanization targets results in fines (OMR 500-2,000 monthly) and potential commercial license suspension. During the initial setup phase (first 12 months), enforcement is flexible to allow business establishment. The Ministry of Labour monitors compliance through the Wages Protection System.

Does Oman Golden Visa grant access to other GCC countries?

No, the Oman Golden Visa provides residence rights exclusively within Oman. Travel to other GCC countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain) requires separate visas according to each country’s immigration policies. However, Omani residence facilitates GCC visit visa applications through simplified procedures. Business travel within GCC is easier with Omani residency as proof of regional ties. Unlike EU Schengen residence permits, GCC countries maintain independent immigration systems without automatic access rights. You must apply for separate visas when visiting other Gulf states.

What tax obligations apply to Golden Visa holders?

Oman imposes zero personal income tax on Golden Visa holders regardless of employment or business income. Corporate tax applies to business activities at 15% standard rate (reduced to 3-12% in free zones and special economic zones). Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced in 2021 at 5% on goods and services. Property owners pay annual municipality fees (0.5-1% of property value). Business investors must file annual tax returns even if exempt from taxation. No wealth tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax exists. Foreign-sourced income brought into Oman is not taxed. Consult tax advisors for specific business structure optimization.