Moving abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it often comes with one primary concern — being away from family. Thankfully, Oman’s immigration system allows expatriates to bring their families through the Dependent Visa in Oman, also called the Family Visa. This visa helps foreign employees and investors legally sponsor their loved ones and enjoy a stable life together in the Sultanate.
This detailed guide explains every aspect of applying for a family visa in Oman, including eligibility, documents, salary requirements, costs, and the complete step-by-step process. Whether you are a first-time applicant or renewing your family’s visa, this article covers everything you need to know to complete the process smoothly and legally.
What Is a Dependent Visa?
A dependent visa is a type of residence permit that allows the family members of a legally employed or investing expatriate to live in Oman. It is officially issued by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) and falls under the country’s immigration and residency laws. The visa remains valid as long as the sponsor’s work or investor visa is active.
Under this visa, the spouse, children under 21 years of age, and, in some cases, parents are eligible to reside in Oman. The dependents are not permitted to work unless they obtain their own employment visas, but they can live, study, and receive healthcare within the country.
For expatriates building a life in Oman, this visa provides emotional security and family stability, making it one of the most requested immigration services in the country.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Family Reunion Visa in Oman
Applying for an Oman family reunion visa involves following specific legal procedures, documentation, and verification steps. The process can be completed both online via the ROP eVisa portal or manually at the Directorate General of Passports and Residence.
Let’s explore the entire process in detail.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, the sponsor must confirm that they meet the eligibility criteria—this includes having a valid employment or investor visa, a residence card, and meeting the minimum salary threshold. Only specific professions and income brackets are allowed to sponsor dependents.
Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents
Collect all necessary documentation, such as the sponsor’s passport copy, resident card, labor card, attested marriage or birth certificates, tenancy agreement, and salary certificate. All documents must be translated into Arabic (if issued in another language) and attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Oman Embassy in the applicant’s home country.
Step 3: Fill Out the Visa Application Form
Obtain the official Family Visa application form either online from the ROP website or from the nearest immigration office. The form must be filled out accurately with the sponsor and dependent details. Any incomplete or incorrect information may delay the approval process.
Step 4: Submit the Application and Pay Fees
Once the form is completed, submit it along with the supporting documents and pay the required family visa fees, which typically range from OMR 20 to OMR 50 depending on the duration of stay. Payment can be made online or at authorized service centers.
Step 5: Await Approval from Authorities
The Royal Oman Police reviews the application, verifies the documents, and may request additional information if necessary. Approval can take between 5 and 12 working days, depending on the workload and accuracy of the submission.
Step 6: Visa Stamping and Entry Process
After approval, the dependent’s visa will be stamped in their passport. The family member can then enter Oman and receive a Resident Card within 30 days of arrival. This card serves as official proof of residency for dependents in Oman.
Eligibility Criteria for a Family Visa in Oman
The Oman family visa is granted only to residents who meet specific government-set requirements. To be eligible:
- The sponsor must hold a valid residence or employment visa in Oman.
- The sponsor’s monthly salary must meet the official threshold (discussed below).
- The sponsor must provide proof of suitable housing, such as a tenancy contract.
- Dependents must be direct family members (spouse, children, or parents).
- The sponsor’s employer must not restrict family sponsorship in the employment contract.
Applicants should note that not all job categories qualify for family sponsorship. For example, laborers or temporary workers with lower income brackets may not be eligible.
Required Documents for an Oman Dependent Visa
Document preparation is the most critical part of applying for a dependent visa in Oman. Missing or unverified paperwork often leads to delays or rejection. Below is the complete list required by the Royal Oman Police:
- Passport copies of the sponsor and dependents (valid for at least six months)
- Resident card and labor card of the sponsor
- Attested marriage certificate (for spouse) or birth certificate (for children)
- Recent passport-size photographs of each dependent (white background)
- Salary certificate and employment contract from the sponsor’s company
- Tenancy contract or housing proof
- Medical certificate for dependents above 15 years of age (if required)
- Translation copies of non-Arabic documents certified by MOFA
Properly organizing these documents and ensuring they are attested helps expedite approval.
Legal Requirements for the Oman Family Visa
The Family Visa in Oman is regulated under the Royal Oman Police Residency Law and must comply with several legal obligations. Failing to adhere to these regulations can result in penalties, cancellation, or deportation.
Compliance with Residency Laws
Sponsors must maintain a valid residence permit and ensure dependents leave or renew visas before expiration. Dependents are not permitted to engage in employment or commercial activity under a family visa.
Visa Duration and Renewal
The family visa is typically issued for two years, matching the validity of the sponsor’s residence visa. Renewal should be initiated at least 30 days before expiration to avoid fines.
Reporting Changes to Authorities
Any change in the sponsor’s employment, address, or marital status must be reported to the Royal Oman Police immediately. This keeps residency records updated and prevents legal issues.
Cancellation and Transfer Rules
If the sponsor leaves Oman permanently or changes employers, the dependent visa must be canceled or transferred under the new sponsor’s details. Violations can lead to entry bans or fines.
By following these legal conditions, expatriates can keep their families in Oman without interruption or legal risk.
Minimum Salary for Family Visa in Oman 2025
The minimum salary for a family visa in Oman (2025) varies according to job type and number of dependents. Generally, an expatriate must earn OMR 350 to OMR 600 per month to qualify.
- OMR 350–450: Eligible to sponsor spouse and one child
- OMR 500–600: Eligible to sponsor spouse and multiple children
- Above OMR 600: Eligible to sponsor parents or extended family (case-by-case basis)
Salary certificates must be issued and attested by the Ministry of Labour to validate eligibility. Some employers also issue a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to support visa applications for family sponsorship.
How Do I Qualify for a Dependent Visa?
To qualify for a dependent visa in Oman, you must:
- Hold a valid residence visa as an employee, investor, or business owner.
- Meet the minimum income requirement established by the government.
- Have sufficient housing arrangements in Oman.
- Provide attested proof of relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates.
- Ensure that dependents have valid health insurance coverage in Oman.
The visa eligibility also depends on the sponsor’s job title; managerial, technical, and skilled positions are generally favored. Once you meet these criteria, your dependent visa application can be processed within days.
What Is the New Rule for Family Visa in Oman?
The new rule for the family visa in Oman (2025) focuses on digital transformation and stricter compliance. The ROP eVisa system now allows expatriates to submit applications, upload documents, and make payments entirely online, reducing manual paperwork.
At the same time, the system cross-checks salary data with the Ministry of Labour database and verifies tenancy contracts automatically. Dependents must also complete biometric verification after arrival for their Resident Card issuance.
These updates make the process faster but also more transparent, ensuring that only eligible and compliant sponsors are approved.
How Much to Pay for a Dependent Visa?
The cost of a dependent visa in Oman depends on the duration and number of family members. Typically, the visa fee is:
- OMR 20 for a one-year visa
- OMR 50 for a two-year visa
Additional costs may include attestation fees, translation charges, medical tests, and Resident Card fees. Renewal fees are usually the same as initial application charges. Some companies cover visa costs as part of the employee’s relocation package, while self-sponsors or investors pay the full amount through the ROP online payment system.
Conclusion
Applying for a dependent visa in Oman requires careful preparation, accurate documentation, and adherence to all government regulations. When handled properly, the process is straightforward and allows families to reunite under one roof.
The key to success lies in meeting the salary requirements, maintaining legal compliance, and submitting attested documents. For those unfamiliar with local laws or procedures, consulting a professional business setup company in Oman ensures faster approval and peace of mind.
Having your family with you not only enhances personal well-being but also boosts productivity and stability as you build your career or business in Oman.
FAQs
How long does it take to process a dependent visa in Oman?
The average processing time for a dependent visa in Oman ranges from 5 to 12 working days, depending on the accuracy of submitted documents and the workload at the Royal Oman Police (ROP). Online applications through the ROP eVisa system often get approved faster.
What is the validity period of a family visa in Oman?
The Oman family visa is usually valid for two years, aligning with the sponsor’s residence visa. It must be renewed before the expiry date to avoid fines or cancellation. Renewal can also be done online through the ROP portal.
Can dependents work in Oman on a family visa?
No, dependents are not allowed to work on a family visa. If a dependent finds employment, they must apply for a separate employment visa and transfer sponsorship under their new employer.
Can I apply for a family visa online in Oman?
Yes, the Royal Oman Police eVisa portal allows sponsors to submit family visa applications, upload required documents, and make payments online. This digital process simplifies visa issuance and reduces manual delays.
What happens if my family visa expires in Oman?
If a family visa expires, the sponsor must renew it immediately. Overstaying without renewal can result in fines, visa cancellation, or even travel restrictions. Renewal can be done at ROP offices or online.
Can parents be sponsored under a dependent visa in Oman?
Yes, parents can be sponsored under certain conditions. The sponsor must have a higher income (OMR 600 or more) and provide proof of financial capability and adequate accommodation to support their parents in Oman.
