How to apply for a freelance license in Oman

"Freelance licence" means different things depending on your nationality. Omani nationals have simplified routes for self-employment and home-based work. Foreign nationals generally cannot work in Oman as unsponsored freelancers. The practical route is to set up their own company and work through it.

Freelancing as an Omani national

Oman has introduced simplified registrations so Omani citizens can earn income independently without a full commercial setup. Options include:

• Freelance and self-employment registrations for listed professional and service activities, available through the government's business platforms
• Home-based business registrations for permitted activities run from home, such as crafts, home food production and online services, subject to municipality conditions
• Small business support, including SME Development Authority programmes and the Riyada card for eligible entrepreneurs

Each registration covers specific activities, so choose the one that matches what you do. Some activities still need premises or a professional licence.

Freelancing as a foreign national

Expatriates in Oman are sponsored by an employer, a family member or their own company. Working for clients independently while on someone else's sponsorship, or on a visit visa, is not permitted.

The legal route for a foreign freelancer or consultant is:

1. Register a single person company (SPC) with your professional activities, such as consultancy, IT services or design. Most of these allow 100% foreign ownership.
2. Lease a registered address. A flexible or virtual office is often enough for consultancy.
3. Obtain your investor residence visa through the SPC.
4. Invoice clients through the company, and keep accounts and tax filings up to date.

This gives you limited liability, a local bank account and the right to live in Oman, and you can hire staff later.

What it costs

A one-person consultancy SPC with a flexible office and your own investor visa typically costs around OMR 2,000–4,000 in the first year, including government fees, office and visa. See the setup cost breakdown.

Frequently asked questions

Can expats get a freelance visa in Oman?

Oman does not offer an open freelance visa for expatriates. Foreign professionals usually form an SPC and obtain investor residence through it.

Can Omanis work as freelancers?

Yes. Omani nationals can use simplified self-employment and home-based business registrations for permitted activities.

What activities can a one-person company in Oman do?

Most professional and service activities, such as consultancy, IT, marketing and design, are open to 100% foreign ownership. Some regulated professions need additional licences.

Do freelancers pay tax in Oman?

A company pays corporate income tax: 15%, or 3% for qualifying small companies. Personal income tax applies only from 2028, and only to income above OMR 42,000 a year.