Launching a business in Oman has become increasingly popular among international investors. The country’s strong economy, business-friendly laws, and strategic position make it a gateway for global trade. To start or explore a venture there, foreign entrepreneurs need to obtain a business entry permit that allows them to visit, manage, or invest in Omani enterprises legally.
This guide provides complete information for those planning to secure an entrepreneur visa for Oman — from eligibility and documentation to benefits, costs, and frequently asked questions.
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Understanding the Business Entry Permit for Entrepreneurs
An Oman business entry permit is an authorization that allows foreign professionals and investors to enter the country to engage in commercial activities, attend meetings, or set up new enterprises.
Issued by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) and the Directorate General of Passports and Residence, this visa category supports business development and investment facilitation. Applicants can either be sponsored by a locally registered Omani company or by their own newly established business.
Why Oman Is a Growing Destination for Global Investors
Oman attracts global investors through 100% ownership laws, strategic location, economic stability, modern infrastructure, and supportive government business reforms.
Strong Economic Fundamentals and Stable Growth
Oman enjoys a diversified economy supported by logistics, tourism, manufacturing, and renewable energy. The government’s Vision 2040 strategy focuses on private-sector expansion, making the country an attractive destination for long-term investors.
Government Reforms That Encourage Foreign Ownership
Recent regulations under the Foreign Capital Investment Law allow up to 100% foreign ownership in many sectors. This policy shift has simplified the process for entrepreneurs applying for an investor visa or company establishment permit in Oman.
Expanding Opportunities Across Multiple Sectors
With projects in oil & gas, shipping, health care, IT, and sustainable energy, Oman offers a wide range of prospects. Entrepreneurs can benefit from free-zone incentives, low taxes, and modern infrastructure connecting the Gulf, Africa, and Asia.
Types of Entrepreneur and Investor Visas in Oman
Understanding available visa categories helps applicants choose the one that best fits their business goals.
Short-Term Entry Permit
Valid for up to three months, this visa suits investors who need to attend meetings, explore partnerships, or sign preliminary contracts.
Multiple-Entry Permit
Designed for frequent travelers, this option remains valid for a full year, permitting multiple short visits of about three weeks each.
Long-Term Investor Visa
Ideal for business owners managing Omani companies, this visa grants longer residency privileges and simplifies local banking and licensing procedures.
Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Entrepreneurs
Foreign entrepreneurs must have a valid passport, local sponsor, clean record, and official invitation to conduct legitimate investment activities in Oman.
Basic Applicant Requirements
- A valid passport with at least six months before expiry.
- Entry purpose limited to business or investment activities.
- Sponsorship from a registered Omani enterprise.
- Clean legal and immigration record within GCC countries.
Sponsor and Company Prerequisites
- The sponsoring firm must hold a Commercial Registration (CR) and Chamber of Commerce certificate.
- Newly incorporated businesses must secure initial approval from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) before inviting foreign partners.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants need passport copies, photos, visa forms, sponsorship letters, and company registration papers from the Omani business entity for visa approval.
From the Applicant
- Passport copy (minimum six-month validity).
- Recent passport-size photographs.
- Completed and signed visa form.
- Invitation letter from an Omani sponsor.
- Proof of intended business activities or investment plan.
- Travel itinerary and accommodation details.
From the Sponsor
- Copy of company’s Commercial Registration and Chamber of Commerce membership.
- Sponsor’s ID card and resident card.
- Official letter of sponsorship addressed to the ROP.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain the Business Visa in Oman
To Obtain a Business Visa in Oman You Must Secure sponsorship, prepare documents, apply online via the Royal Oman Police portal, pay visa fees, and download the approved electronic permit.
Step 1: Secure a Local Sponsor
A registered company or authorized consultant must act as your official sponsor and submit the visa request to Omani authorities.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Gather all personal and company documents and ensure they’re translated into Arabic if necessary. Incomplete paperwork is the most common cause of rejection.
Step 3: Online Application Submission
Your sponsor applies via the Royal Oman Police eVisa system. Applicants can track progress online until approval.
Step 4: Payment of Fees
Visa fees usually range from OMR 20 – 50, depending on validity. Payment is processed electronically.
Step 5: Receive the eVisa
Once approved, print the electronic visa and present it on arrival. For investors, this document is also required when applying for company formation or residency permits later.
Duration, Validity, and Renewal
The standard Oman business entry permit remains valid for three months, while multiple-entry versions extend up to one year. Renewals must be filed before expiration through the sponsor or registered service provider.
Failure to renew on time can result in fines or travel restrictions, so it’s important to monitor expiry dates carefully.
Advantages of the Entrepreneur Visa
- Legal access to explore or manage Omani businesses.
- Permission to establish or partner in local companies.
- Entry to free zones offering tax relief and customs exemptions.
- Eligibility for upgrading to a long-term investor residence permit.
- Opportunity to attend trade fairs, exhibitions, and corporate events.
Avoiding Common Application Mistakes
- Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documentation.
- Applying without a recognized sponsor.
- Overstaying permitted duration.
- Using the visa for employment instead of business purposes.
Ensuring accuracy and compliance saves both time and money during the visa process.
Tips for Starting a Business After Arrival
Collaborate with local consultants, explore free zones, register licenses promptly, maintain compliance, and build reliable partnerships for long-term growth.
Explore Oman’s Free Zones
Free zones such as Sohar, Salalah, and Duqm allow full foreign ownership, duty-free imports, and simplified registration. They’re ideal for international logistics or manufacturing ventures.
Partner with Local Advisors
Collaborate with reliable business consultants who understand Omani regulations. They can assist with trade licenses, tax registration, and investor residency permits.
Maintain Compliance
Renew commercial registrations, keep accounts audited, and adhere to Oman’s tax and labor laws to ensure your enterprise remains in good standing.
Cost Breakdown for Entrepreneur or Investor Visas
Approximate expenses include:
- Single-entry permit – OMR 20 (three-month validity).
- Multiple-entry permit – OMR 50 (one-year validity).
- Investor visa – OMR 100 and above, with extended duration.
Applicants may incur additional costs for translation, attestation, and consultancy assistance.
Conclusion
Securing a business entry visa for foreign investors in Oman is the first step toward establishing a strong presence in one of the Gulf’s most promising economies. The process is efficient, transparent, and aligned with Oman’s mission to welcome global entrepreneurs.
By choosing the correct visa type, fulfilling document requirements, and partnering with trusted local professionals, entrepreneurs can confidently begin their commercial journey in the Sultanate.
For hassle-free documentation, renewals, and compliance support, consider working with experienced Visa Services in Oman — experts who simplify every stage of your business immigration process.
FAQs
Who can apply for an entrepreneur visa in Oman?
Any foreign investor or business professional entering Oman for legitimate commercial activities can apply with sponsorship from an Omani entity.
How long does the visa approval process take?
Typically between 3 – 7 working days, depending on verification and workload at the immigration department.
Can I extend my business entry permit?
Yes. Extensions must be filed before expiration through your local sponsor or visa service provider.
What’s the validity period of a multiple-entry visa?
Up to one year, allowing multiple short visits during that time.
Is a sponsor mandatory for foreign investors?
Yes, an Omani-registered company or consultancy must sponsor your application.
Can I work in Oman using this visa?
No. Employment requires a work visa; this permit only covers business and investment activities.
Can I convert it into a long-term investor residence permit?
Yes. Once your company is licensed and operational, you may apply for a conversion to an investor residency visa.
Are free-zone companies eligible to sponsor foreign entrepreneurs?
Yes. Approved free-zone authorities can sponsor investors for entry and residence permits.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying incurs daily fines and may affect future visa applications.
Do consultants assist with complete visa documentation?
Yes, professional visa consultants in Oman can manage applications, renewals, and compliance end-to-end.
