When living or working in Oman, visas are essential for legal residency and employment. However, there comes a time when you may need to cancel your visa—whether due to resignation, termination, changing employers, closing a business, or leaving Oman permanently.
Visa cancellation is not just a formality—it’s a legal obligation. Failing to cancel properly can result in overstay fines, travel bans, and legal complications that can affect your ability to return to Oman or apply for GCC visas in the future.
This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of visa cancellation in Oman, including requirements, timelines, costs, fines, and common mistakes.
Table of Contents
Why Visa Cancellation is Important in Oman
Visa cancellation ensures that your residency status is officially terminated in government records. Without it, the system will continue to show you as an active resident, even if you have left the country.
- Legal compliance: Avoid fines and penalties under Omani law.
- Clean record: Maintains a clear immigration history for future visits or jobs.
- Employer protection: Prevents companies from being fined for employees who left without proper cancellation.
- Family visas: Ensures dependent visas are canceled before the sponsor’s visa is canceled.
Types of Visas That Require Cancellation in Oman
Visa cancellation procedures differ depending on the visa type.
Employment Visa
Issued for expatriates employed by Omani companies. Employers are responsible for canceling these visas through the Royal Oman Police (ROP) and Ministry of Labour systems.
Family Visa (Dependent Visa)
Dependents—spouses, children, or parents—require cancellation if the sponsor’s visa is canceled. This must be done before canceling the main visa.
Investor or Business Visa
For foreign investors and entrepreneurs running companies in Oman. These visas require company clearance and cancellation of commercial licenses before canceling residency.
Tourist Visa
Short-term visas usually expire automatically. However, if you overstay, cancellation and fines are required before departure.
Documents Required for Visa Cancellation in Oman
Different visas require different documents.
| Visa Type | Documents Required |
| Employment Visa | Passport copy, Resident card, NOC from employer, Cancellation form, Labour clearance |
| Family Visa | Sponsor’s documents, Dependent passport, Resident card, Application form |
| Investor Visa | Trade license, Passport, Resident card, Company clearance |
| Tourist Visa | Passport, Application form, Overstay fine clearance (if overstayed) |
Tip: Always keep extra passport-size photos, as they are often required for cancellation forms.
Step-by-Step Visa Cancellation Process in Oman
The visa cancellation process in Oman involves preparing the required documents, submitting the cancellation application through the sponsor or employer, paying relevant fees, and clearing any fines. Once approved, the individual must exit within the grace period, ensuring the visa is officially terminated in immigration records.
Step 1: Employer/Sponsor Prepares Documents
The employer or sponsor must collect the employee’s passport, resident card, and NOC (if transferring jobs).
Step 2: Submit Cancellation Application
Applications are filed through the ROP eVisa portal or directly at immigration offices. For dependents, the sponsor must handle this step.
Step 3: Clear Outstanding Dues
Ensure all outstanding payments, loans, or fines are cleared. This includes traffic fines, overstay penalties, or company settlements.
Step 4: Pay Visa Cancellation Fee
Pay the applicable fee, typically OMR 10–20, depending on visa type.
Step 5: Exit Oman
Once cancellation is approved, the visa holder must exit Oman within the grace period, usually 30 days.
Step 6: Final Confirmation
The employer/sponsor receives a cancellation confirmation, and the visa is officially terminated in the immigration system.
Timeline for Visa Cancellation in Oman
The processing time varies by visa type and complexity:
- Employment Visa: 2–5 working days
- Family Visa: 3–7 working days
- Investor Visa: 7–10 working days (requires trade license clearance)
- Tourist Visa: 1–2 days (if fines apply)
Cost of Visa Cancellation and Overstay Fines
Visa cancellation itself is inexpensive, but fines can add up quickly.
| Service | Cost (Approx.) |
| Employment visa cancellation | OMR 10–20 |
| Family visa cancellation | OMR 10 |
| Investor visa cancellation | OMR 20–30 |
| Overstay fines | OMR 10 per day |
| Additional service charges (agents) | OMR 5–15 per application |
Consequences of Not Cancelling a Visa
Failing to cancel a visa properly can have serious consequences:
- Daily fines of OMR 10 for overstaying.
- Travel bans preventing re-entry into Oman.
- Legal disputes if the employer is penalized for non-cancellation.
- Difficulty applying for GCC visas in the future.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Cancellation
- Exiting Oman without official cancellation.
- Forgetting to cancel dependents’ visas first.
- Not clearing loans or company dues before applying.
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents.
Employer Responsibilities in Visa Cancellation
For employment visas, the employer bears legal responsibility for ensuring cancellation. They must:
- Submit the application on behalf of the employee.
- Cover visa cancellation fees.
- Provide the employee with exit confirmation.
Failure to do so can result in penalties for the employer.
Overstay Fines in Oman
If you fail to cancel your visa and stay beyond the permitted period:
- A fine of OMR 10 per day applies.
- If the overstay exceeds a month, additional penalties or travel bans may apply.
- In extreme cases, deportation proceedings may be initiated.
Visa Cancellation for Dependents
Dependent visas must always be canceled before the sponsor’s visa is canceled.
Process:
- Sponsor applies for cancellation.
- Submit dependent’s passport and resident card.
- Pay cancellation fee.
- Exit Oman within the grace period.
Visa Cancellation for Investors and Business Owners
For investor visas, the process is slightly longer:
- Company trade license must be cleared.
- Business dues (taxes, rent, staff salaries) must be settled.
- Submit documents to MOCIIP and ROP.
- Pay cancellation fee.
- Exit Oman.
Conclusion
Cancelling a visa in Oman is a critical step that ensures a smooth legal exit and avoids fines or bans. Whether you hold an employment, family, investor, or tourist visa, following the correct procedure is essential for compliance.
If you are uncertain, working with business setup consultants in Oman can simplify the process, handle paperwork, and ensure compliance with Omani immigration laws.
FAQs
What are the procedures for obtaining statutory licenses/permits?
Apply through MOCIIP or the ROP eVisa system, submit required documents, pay fees, and wait for approvals.
What is the Omani customs duty on imported commodities?
Most imports are subject to a 5% customs duty, with some exemptions for food items and essential goods.
What are the customs entry points for foreign goods?
Main entry points include Port Sultan Qaboos (Muscat), Sohar Port, Salalah Port, and Muscat International Airport.
Is there personal or sales income tax in Oman?
No, Oman does not levy personal income tax or VAT on basic goods, though VAT at 5% applies on many services.
How do I register my company with the Tender Board?
Submit your company’s commercial registration, tax card, and other documents to the Oman Tender Board for approval.
How much does a business license cost in Oman?
A business license in Oman costs between OMR 2,500–5,000, depending on activity and location.
Can foreigners own a business in Oman?
Yes, foreigners can own businesses, often via LLC structures, though some sectors require a local partner.
How long does it take to obtain a trade license in Oman?
Typically 1–3 weeks, depending on the business activity and approvals.
Can I operate a business in Oman without a trade license?
No, operating without a license is illegal and can result in penalties or business closure.
How do I check if my Oman visa is cancelled?
Check through the Royal Oman Police eVisa portal or confirm with your employer or sponsor for official cancellation status.
What is the penalty for working visa expiry in Oman?
The penalty is OMR 10 per day of overstay, with possible travel bans or deportation if cancellation isn’t completed.
