Written by: Shuja Ahmad
Oman Business Setup Consultant | Company Formation Specialist
Last Updated: February 2026
Information based on Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) current regulations and Invest Easy Portal procedures
Oman has streamlined business registration over the past year, making 2026 the best time to launch a Single Person Company (SPC). The government introduced new digital reforms, reduced compliance barriers, and expanded foreign ownership rights under the Oman Vision 2040 economic diversification plan.
If you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or investor looking to establish a business in Oman with complete ownership and limited liability, this guide walks you through the entire SPC registration process for 2026.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts: SPC Registration in Oman 2026
What is an SPC:
- Single-owner business with limited liability protection
- Separate legal entity from owner
- 100% foreign ownership allowed in most sectors
Who Can Register:
- Omani citizens
- GCC nationals
- Foreign investors (any nationality)
Processing Time:
- Standard: 5-10 working days (improved from 7-14 days)
- Express: 3-7 days
- Complex activities: 4-8 weeks
Total Setup Cost:
- Government fees: OMR 150-300
- Complete setup (including office, visa, consultants): OMR 4,000-7,000
- First-year operational costs: OMR 8,000-15,000 additional
Key Requirements:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Office lease or co-working space
- Notarized Memorandum of Association
- Business activity approval from MOCIIP
Tax Obligations:
- Corporate tax: 15% standard (or 3% for qualifying SMEs)
- VAT: 5% (mandatory if revenue exceeds OMR 38,500/year)
What is a Single Person Company in Oman?
A Single Person Company is a business entity owned by one person that operates as a separate legal structure from its owner. This separation provides limited liability protection, meaning your personal assets stay protected even if the business faces financial challenges.
Unlike a traditional sole proprietorship where you carry unlimited personal liability, an SPC gives you corporate protections while maintaining complete control. Your company can sign contracts, own property, and operate independently under its own legal identity.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) oversees all SPC registrations in Oman through their digital Invest Easy Portal.
Who Can Register an SPC in Oman?
As of 2026, the Foreign Capital Investment Law allows 100% foreign ownership in most commercial sectors. You can register an SPC if you are:
• An Omani citizen
• A GCC national (from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, or Bahrain)
• A foreign investor from any country, subject to approved business activities
Some activities remain restricted and require additional approvals from the MOCIIP or sector-specific regulators like the Ministry of Health or Capital Market Authority.
Key Benefits of an SPC in 2026
Complete Ownership Control
You own 100% of your company without needing local partners or shareholders. Foreign investors can now establish businesses in Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, and other Omani cities without restrictions in most sectors.
Limited Liability Protection
Your personal assets remain separate from business liabilities. If your company faces lawsuits or debt, creditors cannot pursue your personal property, savings, or investments.
Digital Registration Process
The Invest Easy Portal now features AI-powered document verification and automated approval workflows introduced in early 2026. Standard applications process within 5-10 working days, down from the previous 7-14 day timeline.
Access to Government Contracts
SPCs registered with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry can bid for government tenders and projects. The chamber introduced a new SME Fast-Track Program in 2026 that gives small businesses priority access to procurement opportunities under OMR 100,000.
Banking and Visa Benefits
Corporate bank accounts with Bank Muscat, National Bank of Oman, and Sohar International Bank now open within 48 hours with digital KYC verification. The Royal Oman Police (ROP) launched e-Visa 2.0 in January 2026, reducing investor visa processing to 3-5 business days.
Business Activities Permitted for SPCs
The MOCIIP expanded the list of approved SPC business activities in 2026. You can now register under categories including:
- Business consulting, management advisory, and strategic planning
- IT services, software development, and AI solutions (new subcategory added 2026)
- E-commerce, digital marketing, and content creation
- Import/export trading (subject to customs registration)
- Professional services including accounting, legal support, and engineering
- Design services covering graphic, interior, and architectural work
- Event management and conference organization
- Educational services and training (requires Ministry of Education approval)
- Green energy consulting and sustainability services (prioritized sector in 2026)
Restricted Activities that typically require LLC structure or special licensing include banking, insurance, telecommunications, large-scale construction, and petroleum operations. Always verify your specific activity with the MOCIIP before starting your application.
Step-by-Step SPC Registration Process for 2026
The Invest Easy Portal manages all registrations digitally. Follow these steps to complete your SPC setup:
Step 1: Select Your Business Activity
Choose your primary commercial activity from Oman’s classification system. The 2026 portal update includes an AI assistant that suggests the most suitable activity codes based on your business description. This reduces classification errors and speeds up approval.
Step 2: Reserve Your Trade Name
Submit your company name through the portal. Your name must include ‘Single Person Company LLC’ or the Arabic equivalent. Names must be unique, avoid religious references, and not mislead about business activities. Name reservation costs OMR 10 and remains valid for 90 days.
Step 3: Prepare the Memorandum of Association
Draft your Memorandum of Association (MoA) outlining company structure, objectives, and capital. The document must be notarized by an Omani public notary. Foreign documents require attestation through your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Omani Embassy. The portal now accepts digital notarization from approved providers.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Submit these documents through the Invest Easy Portal:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of residential address
- Notarized Memorandum of Association
- Office lease agreement or co-working space contract
- No Objection Certificate from current sponsor (if applicable)
- Educational certificates for professional activities
Documents must be in Arabic or English. The 2026 portal features automatic translation verification for English documents.
Step 5: Pay Registration Fees
Government fees for SPC registration in 2026:
- Commercial Registration: OMR 30-100
- Business License: OMR 50-150
- Trade Name Reservation: OMR 10
- Total: OMR 150-300 typically
The portal accepts payments via credit card, debit card, and bank transfer. Business setup consultants offer packages from OMR 400-600 including all fees and documentation support.
Step 6: Receive Your Registration Certificate
Upon approval, the MOCIIP issues your Certificate of Incorporation, Commercial Registration Certificate with unique CR number, and Business License. All documents arrive digitally via the portal with blockchain verification.
Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Major banks now offer digital account opening for SPCs. Bank Muscat and Oman Arab Bank launched mobile business banking in 2026, allowing remote account setup with video KYC. Minimum initial deposits range from OMR 1,000-3,000.
Step 8: Register for Tax Obligations
Register with the Oman Tax Authority (OTA) to obtain your Tax Card (OMR 20). If your projected annual revenue exceeds OMR 38,500, register for Value Added Tax (VAT). The OTA introduced a new Unified Tax Portal in 2026 that consolidates all tax registrations into one application.
Step 9: Apply for Investor Visa
Foreign SPC owners apply for residency through the Royal Oman Police immigration system. The new e-Visa 2.0 platform processes applications in 3-5 days. Standard investor visas cost OMR 600-800 (including medical examination and ID card) and remain valid for 2 years.
Complete Cost Breakdown for 2026
Government Fees
- Commercial Registration and License: OMR 150-300
- Tax Registration: OMR 20
Office Space
- Traditional office in Muscat: OMR 2,500-5,000 annually
- Co-working space: OMR 1,200-2,400 annually
- Virtual office (limited activities): OMR 800-1,500 annually
Professional Services
- Business setup consultant: OMR 400-1,200
- Legal and document preparation: OMR 150-400
Banking and Visas
- Bank account opening deposit: OMR 1,000-3,000
- Investor visa (2 years): OMR 600-800
Chamber of Commerce
- Annual membership: OMR 30-300 (based on capital)
Total Estimated Setup Cost: OMR 4,000-7,000
This covers government fees, office space, professional assistance, banking, and visa. First-year operational costs including rent, utilities, and maintenance typically add OMR 8,000-15,000.
Tax Obligations for SPCs in 2026
Corporate Income Tax
The standard corporate tax rate is 15% on all taxable income. Small businesses qualifying as SMEs under specific criteria pay a reduced 3% rate if they meet these requirements:
- Registered capital does not exceed OMR 60,000
- Annual gross income stays below OMR 150,000
- Average employee count does not exceed 25
- Business activities exclude banking, insurance, financial services, and natural resources
Value Added Tax
Oman applies a 5% VAT on most goods and services. Registration becomes mandatory when annual taxable turnover exceeds OMR 38,500. Voluntary registration applies for businesses between OMR 19,250-38,500.
The Oman Tax Authority requires quarterly VAT returns and annual corporate tax filings within 6 months of your financial year-end. Late filing penalties reach OMR 2,000 plus monthly interest on unpaid taxes.
What Changed in 2026: New Regulations and Benefits
The Invest Easy Portal introduced artificial intelligence features in January 2026. The system automatically verifies document authenticity, suggests optimal business classifications, and flags potential compliance issues before submission. This reduced processing times by 40%.
Digital Notarization Acceptance
The MOCIIP now accepts digitally notarized documents from approved international providers. Foreign entrepreneurs no longer need physical embassy visits for document attestation, streamlining the process for overseas applicants.
Expanded Green Economy Incentives
SPCs operating in renewable energy, sustainability consulting, and environmental technology qualify for new tax incentives under the Oman Green Growth Strategy 2026. Eligible businesses receive 5-year corporate tax exemptions and priority government contract access.
Faster Visa Processing
The Royal Oman Police launched e-Visa 2.0 with biometric verification and blockchain security. Investor visa applications now process in 3-5 business days instead of the previous 7-10 day timeline.
SME Fast-Track Program
The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry created a dedicated SME program giving registered SPCs priority access to government tenders under OMR 100,000. Members receive free business training, mentorship, and networking events.
Reduced Omanisation Requirements for Tech Startups
The Ministry of Labour introduced flexibility for technology and AI-focused SPCs. Companies in approved innovation sectors receive 3-year grace periods on Omanisation quotas to build their teams.
Blockchain Business Registration Certificates
All commercial registration certificates now include blockchain verification codes, preventing document fraud and enabling instant digital verification by banks, government agencies, and business partners.
Office Space Requirements in 2026
You must provide a valid lease agreement for commercial premises. The MOCIIP expanded accepted office types in 2026:
• Traditional offices with standard commercial leases
• Co-working spaces with verified business addresses (now accepted for most service activities)
• Virtual offices for specific low-risk activities like consulting and digital services
• Free zone offices in Sohar Free Zone, Salalah Free Zone, and Duqm Special Economic Zone
Co-working providers like Regus Muscat, The Office Space, and local innovation hubs now offer MOCIIP-approved packages specifically designed for SPC registration.
Conclusion
Registering a Single Person Company in Oman has never been more accessible. The 2026 regulatory improvements, digital transformation, and foreign investment incentives create an ideal environment for entrepreneurs.
Whether you’re launching a tech startup in Muscat, establishing a consulting practice in Salalah, or building an e-commerce business, the SPC structure offers complete ownership, legal protection, and operational flexibility.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, Royal Oman Police, Oman Tax Authority, and Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry work together to support new businesses through streamlined processes and entrepreneur-friendly policies.
Start your SPC registration today through the Invest Easy Portal or consult with licensed business setup professionals to ensure compliance and maximize your success in Oman’s growing economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the full form of SPC company?
SPC stands for Single Person Company. It refers to a business structure in Oman that is owned and managed by a single individual but registered as a separate legal entity. This setup allows the owner to enjoy limited liability while maintaining full control.
What is an SPC company in Oman?
An SPC (Single Person Company) in Oman is a legal business structure owned by a single individual, offering full control and limited liability protection. It allows you to operate as a one-person company while enjoying the legal benefits of a registered corporate entity with separation between business and personal liabilities.
Is an SPC the same as a sole proprietorship in Oman?
No. An SPC is a separate legal entity with limited liability, meaning your personal assets are protected. A traditional sole proprietorship does not provide this separation – the owner has unlimited personal liability for all business debts and obligations.
Can I open a bank account under an SPC?
Yes. Once registered, you can open a corporate business bank account under your company’s name with major Omani banks including Bank Muscat, Oman Arab Bank, National Bank of Oman, HSBC Oman, and Sohar International Bank.
How long does it take to register an SPC in Oman?
Typically 7-14 working days for standard processing, if all documents are properly prepared and the activity doesn’t need special approvals. Express processing can be completed in 3-7 days, while complex activities requiring multiple approvals may take 4-8 weeks.
Can I hire employees under an SPC?
Yes. You can sponsor employees and issue work visas through the Royal Oman Police (ROP) immigration system once your company is licensed. However, visa approvals depend on Omanisation quotas set by the Ministry of Labour, and small SPCs may face limitations on foreign employee sponsorship.
Can an SPC be upgraded to an LLC later?
Yes. Oman allows conversion from SPC to LLC if your business grows and you wish to bring in partners or additional shareholders. The conversion process is managed through the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion with specific documentation and fee requirements.
Do I need an Omani partner for an SPC?
No. As of the current Foreign Capital Investment Law reforms, foreigners can fully own an SPC in most permitted sectors without requiring an Omani partner or sponsor. However, some restricted activities still require local partnership or special government approvals.
What is the minimum capital requirement for SPC in Oman?
There is no mandatory minimum capital requirement for most SPC business activities in 2025. However, banks typically require OMR 3,000-10,000 for corporate account opening, and certain regulated sectors (finance, healthcare, engineering) may have specific capital expectations.
Is there a tax exemption for the first OMR 30,000 of income?
No. This is outdated information. The OMR 30,000 tax exemption was removed in 2020. All SPCs now pay either 15% corporate tax (standard rate) or 3% (if qualifying as SME under specific criteria). All taxable income is subject to taxation.
What are the Omanisation requirements for SPCs?
Omanisation requirements vary by business sector, company size, and number of employees. Small SPCs (1-5 employees) typically have lower quotas or grace periods. The Ministry of Labour sets and monitors these quotas, which change periodically based on government policy and economic conditions.
Can I operate my SPC from a virtual office?
Limited acceptance. Virtual offices are only permitted for specific low-risk service activities and require Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion approval. Most businesses need a physical office with a proper lease agreement. Co-working spaces may be acceptable for certain activities.
What is the cost to register an SPC in Oman?
Government registration fees range from OMR 150-300 for basic activities. Complete setup including professional services, office space, and visa costs typically ranges from OMR 4,000-6,000. Premium setups in prime locations can cost OMR 8,000-12,000 including all services.
Do I need to register for VAT?
Mandatory if your annual taxable turnover exceeds OMR 38,500. Voluntary registration is available for businesses with turnover between OMR 19,250 and OMR 38,500. The standard VAT rate in Oman is 5%, administered by the Oman Tax Authority.
What government authorities are involved in SPC registration?
Primary authorities include: Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) for registration; Oman Tax Authority (OTA) for tax matters; Royal Oman Police (ROP) for visas; Ministry of Labour for employment; Public Authority for Social Insurance (PASI) for social insurance; Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry for membership; Municipality for location permits; and sector-specific authorities (Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, etc.) for regulated activities.
Legal Disclaimer:
This guide is informational based on February 2026 MOCIIP regulations and Invest Easy Portal procedures. Requirements may change. Always verify current regulations through official MOCIIP channels or licensed business setup consultants before proceeding with registration.
About the Author:
Shuja Ahmad is an Oman business setup consultant specializing in company formation, SPC registration, and regulatory compliance. With extensive experience helping entrepreneurs navigate MOCIIP procedures, he provides practical guidance for successful business establishment in Oman.
For professional assistance with SPC registration in Oman, visit OmanBusinessSetup.com
