The Golden Visa program represents Oman’s strategic initiative to attract high-caliber investors, skilled professionals, and talented individuals who can contribute significantly to the nation’s economic development. Unlike standard residency permits, the Golden Visa offers extended validity periods, enhanced benefits, and greater flexibility for qualifying applicants. This premium residency option aligns with Oman Vision 2040’s objectives of diversifying the economy and positioning the country as a global hub for talent and investment.
Understanding the eligibility criteria, application procedures, and benefits of Oman’s Golden Visa program is essential for individuals seeking long-term residency with comprehensive privileges. This guide provides detailed insights into securing this prestigious residency status.
Table of Contents
What is the Golden Visa in Oman
The Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit granted to exceptional individuals who demonstrate substantial value to Oman’s economy, culture, or social development. Unlike conventional work visas or standard investor permits, the Golden Visa provides extended residency durations ranging from five to ten years, with streamlined renewal processes and enhanced privileges.
The program targets several categories of qualified individuals including substantial investors establishing businesses or making significant capital investments, highly skilled professionals in priority sectors such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and research, exceptional talents in arts, sports, culture, and academia, outstanding students demonstrating academic excellence, and retirees with substantial financial resources.
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) administers the Golden Visa program in coordination with relevant government ministries. Each category has specific eligibility requirements, investment thresholds, or qualification standards that applicants must meet.
Key Features of Golden Visa
The Golden Visa distinguishes itself through several premium features. Recipients enjoy residency validity of five to ten years depending on qualification category and investment level, with simplified renewal procedures requiring minimal documentation compared to standard visas. The program allows comprehensive family sponsorship including spouse, children, and in some cases parents or siblings.
Golden Visa holders receive priority processing for various government services, flexibility to establish or invest in multiple business ventures, and exemption from certain employment restrictions applicable to standard work permit holders. The visa also provides enhanced property ownership rights in designated development areas and potential pathways toward permanent residency in Oman for long-term holders meeting additional criteria.
Eligibility Criteria for Golden Visa in Oman
The Golden Visa program encompasses multiple pathways, each with distinct qualification requirements tailored to different applicant profiles.
Investment-Based Golden Visa
The investment pathway targets entrepreneurs and investors making substantial financial commitments to Oman’s economy. Qualifying investments include establishing new businesses with minimum capital thresholds typically starting at OMR 500,000, investing in Omani government bonds or approved investment funds, purchasing real estate in designated integrated tourism complexes or commercial developments, or contributing to strategic sectors identified in national development plans including renewable energy, technology, manufacturing, and logistics.
Investment amounts vary based on the business sector and economic impact. Manufacturing and export-oriented businesses may qualify with lower thresholds due to their job creation potential and contribution to economic diversification. All investments require verification through certified financial institutions and must be maintained throughout the visa validity period.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) evaluates investment applications assessing business viability, economic contribution potential, employment creation projections, technology transfer opportunities, and alignment with national development priorities.
Professional Skills Golden Visa
Highly skilled professionals in priority sectors qualify through demonstrated expertise and employment in critical fields. Eligible professions include medical specialists, surgeons, and healthcare researchers, technology experts in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development, engineering specialists in petroleum, renewable energy, and infrastructure, scientific researchers contributing to innovation and knowledge economy, and senior executives in strategic industries.
Applicants must provide evidence of advanced degrees from recognized institutions, professional certifications and licenses, employment contracts with Omani entities in relevant fields, proven track record of achievements and contributions, and salary levels meeting minimum thresholds typically exceeding OMR 3,000 monthly.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation evaluates applications from academic and research professionals, while sector-specific ministries assess other professional categories.
Exceptional Talent Golden Visa
Individuals demonstrating extraordinary abilities in arts, culture, sports, or innovation qualify under the talent category. This includes internationally recognized artists and cultural contributors, professional athletes and sports personalities, award-winning researchers and inventors, published authors and intellectuals, and social entrepreneurs driving impactful initiatives.
Applicants must document their achievements through international awards and recognitions, published works or research papers, media coverage and public recognition, contributions to their respective fields, and endorsements from recognized institutions or industry leaders.
Student Excellence Golden Visa
Outstanding students pursuing higher education in Omani institutions may qualify for Golden Visas facilitating their studies and potential future contributions. Eligible students demonstrate exceptional academic performance with GPAs typically above 3.5, enrollment in STEM programs or priority disciplines, research contributions or innovative projects, and commitment to contributing to Oman’s development post-graduation.
Educational institutions nominate qualifying students, and the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation reviews applications ensuring students meet stringent academic and character standards.
Retiree Golden Visa
Financially independent retirees seeking to spend their retirement years in Oman qualify through demonstrating substantial financial resources. Requirements typically include minimum age of 55 years, proven monthly income or pension exceeding OMR 2,000, real estate ownership in Oman or significant bank deposits, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and clean criminal record.
The Oman Retirement Visa provides long-term stability for individuals appreciating Oman’s quality of life, safety, and cultural richness without engaging in employment.
Application Process for Golden Visa in Oman
Securing a Golden Visa involves systematic progression through evaluation, documentation, and approval stages.
Step 1: Determine Your Qualification Category
Assess which Golden Visa category aligns with your profile. Review specific requirements for investment amounts, professional qualifications, or achievement standards. Consulting immigration specialists or utilizing our visa services in Oman ensures accurate category selection and realistic qualification assessment.
Step 2: Gather Comprehensive Documentation
Compile extensive documentation supporting your Golden Visa application. Core documents applicable across categories include valid passport with minimum one-year validity, recent passport-sized photographs, completed application forms, police clearance certificates from countries of residence, educational certificates and professional qualifications, and medical examination reports from approved centers.
Category-specific documents vary significantly. Investors provide Commercial Registration certificates, investment proof through bank statements and capital certificates, business plans demonstrating economic impact, financial audits and company documentation, and sector-specific licenses. Professionals submit employment contracts and salary certificates, professional licenses and certifications, detailed CVs highlighting achievements, reference letters from employers or industry leaders, and proof of specialized skills.
Talented individuals provide portfolios showcasing work, awards and recognition certificates, media coverage documentation, endorsement letters from recognized authorities, and evidence of international impact. Students need academic transcripts and certificates, university acceptance or enrollment letters, research papers or project documentation, and scholarship information if applicable.
Retirees must provide pension statements or income proof, bank statements showing financial sustainability, property ownership documents or lease agreements, comprehensive health insurance policies, and retirement visa applications.
Step 3: Submit Application Through Authorized Channels
Applications are submitted through the Royal Oman Police e-services portal or designated government service centers. Some categories require initial evaluation by relevant ministries before ROP submission. For instance, investment-based applications often require MOCIIP preliminary approval, while professional applications may need endorsement from employing entities or professional regulatory bodies.
Ensure all documents are properly attested through your home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Omani embassy or consulate. Documents in languages other than Arabic or English require certified translations by approved translation offices.
Step 4: Application Review and Evaluation
Authorities conduct thorough evaluation of your application assessing eligibility compliance, document authenticity, background verification, and contribution potential to Oman’s development. High-value investment applications may involve site visits, business viability assessments, and meetings with applicants.
Processing timelines vary by category complexity and application volume, typically ranging from four to twelve weeks. Complex investment cases or those requiring multiple ministry approvals may extend longer.
Step 5: Pay Required Fees
Upon approval notification, pay prescribed Golden Visa fees through authorized payment channels. Fees vary based on visa duration and category, generally ranging from OMR 1,000 to OMR 5,000 for the main applicant depending on whether you’re receiving a five-year or ten-year visa.
Additional fees apply for dependent family members, typically OMR 300-600 per dependent for five-year visas and higher for ten-year options. Fees cover application processing, residence card issuance, and administrative costs.
Step 6: Complete Biometric Registration
After fee payment confirmation, complete biometric registration at designated ROP centers. This involves fingerprint scanning, facial photography, iris scanning, and signature recording. Biometric data links to your Golden Visa record ensuring secure identification and preventing fraud.
Step 7: Receive Golden Visa and Residence Card
Upon successful completion of all procedures, collect your Golden Visa residence card from ROP. The card displays your photograph, personal information, visa category, issue date, and expiration date. This card serves as your legal residency document and must be carried at all times for identification purposes.
Document Requirements for Golden Visa in Oman
Comprehensive documentation is crucial for successful Golden Visa applications. Required documents include:
- Valid passport with at least one year remaining validity
- Six recent passport-sized color photographs with white background
- Completed Golden Visa application forms with accurate information
- Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence (past ten years)
- Medical examination certificates from ROP-approved health centers
- Proof of health insurance covering your stay in Oman
- Educational certificates and degrees with attestation
- Professional qualification certificates and licenses
- Detailed curriculum vitae highlighting achievements and experience
- Reference letters from recognized institutions or authorities
- For investors: Commercial Registration, business licenses, investment proof
- For investors: Bank statements, capital deposit certificates, financial audits
- For investors: Business plan with economic impact projections
- For professionals: Employment contracts and salary certificates
- For professionals: Professional membership certificates and specialization proof
- For talents: Portfolio of work, awards, media coverage documentation
- For students: Academic transcripts, university enrollment letters
- For retirees: Pension statements, bank account statements, property documents
- Marriage certificates for spouse sponsorship
- Birth certificates for children sponsorship
- All documents attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Omani embassy
Benefits of Golden Visa in Oman
The Golden Visa provides comprehensive advantages distinguishing it from standard residency permits.
Extended Residency Duration
Golden Visa holders enjoy residency validity from five to ten years, eliminating frequent renewal hassles. This extended period provides stability for business planning, family settlement, property investment, and long-term life arrangements.
Comprehensive Family Inclusion
Sponsor your entire immediate family including spouse and unmarried children regardless of age. Some categories permit sponsoring parents or siblings based on specific circumstances. Family members receive residence permits aligned with your Golden Visa duration.
Business Flexibility
Establish multiple businesses across eligible sectors without restrictions. Golden Visa holders can invest in various ventures, serve as company directors, and engage in entrepreneurial activities freely. This flexibility supports portfolio diversification and business expansion strategies.
Property Ownership Rights
Purchase residential and commercial property in designated areas including integrated tourism complexes, certain urban developments, and approved commercial zones. Property ownership provides both investment opportunities and residential stability.
Financial Freedom
No restrictions on profit repatriation, capital movement, or international fund transfers. Golden Visa holders maintain complete financial flexibility, transferring earnings and investments internationally without bureaucratic barriers.
Access to Premium Services
Priority processing for various government services including business licensing, vehicle registration, utility connections, and administrative procedures. Golden Visa status often facilitates faster service delivery across government departments.
Educational and Healthcare Access
Children access Oman’s educational institutions including international schools and universities. Golden Visa holders and families utilize both public and private healthcare facilities, with many opting for comprehensive private health insurance accessing world-class medical services.
Travel Convenience
While the Golden Visa doesn’t provide visa-free international travel, holding Omani long-term residency enhances your profile when applying for tourist or business visas to other countries. Many nations view Omani residency favorably during visa processing.
Potential Permanent Residency Pathway
Long-term Golden Visa holders maintaining continuous residency and substantial economic contributions may eventually qualify for permanent residency programs as Oman develops more comprehensive immigration frameworks. While permanent residency in Oman remains limited currently, Golden Visa holders are positioned favorably for future programs.
No Sponsorship Dependency
Unlike standard employment visas dependent on employer sponsorship, Golden Visa holders maintain independent residency status. This independence provides security and flexibility in career decisions and business ventures.
Cost Structure for Golden Visa in Oman
Understanding complete costs enables proper financial planning for Golden Visa applications.
Application and Processing Fees
Initial application fees range from OMR 1,000 to OMR 5,000 for the primary applicant depending on visa duration and category. Five-year visas typically cost OMR 1,000-2,000, while ten-year options range from OMR 3,000-5,000. These fees cover application processing, background verification, and residence card issuance.
Dependent Sponsorship Costs
Each dependent family member incurs additional fees. Spouse sponsorship typically costs OMR 500-1,000 for five-year visas and OMR 1,000-2,000 for ten-year options. Children cost OMR 300-600 each for five years and OMR 600-1,200 for ten years.
Medical Examination Expenses
Mandatory medical examinations cost approximately OMR 30-50 per person at approved centers. Family medical examinations for a family of four total OMR 120-200.
Document Attestation and Translation
Attesting documents through your home country’s authorities and Omani embassies costs OMR 150-400 depending on document quantity and countries involved. Certified Arabic translations cost OMR 10-20 per page, with complete documentation typically requiring OMR 100-300 in translation services.
Investment-Related Costs
For investment-based Golden Visas, significant costs relate to the actual investment rather than visa fees. Business establishment costs including Commercial Registration (OMR 200-500), municipal licensing (OMR 100-300), and minimum capital requirements constitute the primary expenses. Real estate investments or bond purchases represent substantial capital commitments meeting threshold requirements.
Professional Service Fees
Engaging immigration consultants or legal advisors for application assistance costs OMR 500-2,000 depending on service comprehensiveness and application complexity. Professional guidance often proves valuable given the substantial investment and importance of approval.
Total Estimated Investment
For investment-based Golden Visas, total costs including the actual business investment, visa fees, documentation, and professional services typically range from OMR 510,000 to OMR 600,000 or more. For professional, talent, or student categories without large capital requirements, costs primarily cover visa fees, documentation, and related expenses, typically totaling OMR 2,000-8,000 depending on family size and visa duration.
Conclusion
Navigating the Golden Visa application process requires deep knowledge of immigration rules, documentation standards, and approval procedures. Make My Company provides end-to-end support throughout your entire Golden Visa journey to ensure smooth processing and successful approval.
Our expert consultants assess eligibility across different Golden Visa categories and guide investors, professionals, and talented individuals toward the most suitable pathway. We help structure qualifying investments, prepare achievement records, secure endorsements, and present strong applications that meet approval criteria.
We manage full documentation preparation, including attestations through embassies and ministries, certified translations, and document verification as per ROP requirements. Our team submits applications through official channels, tracks progress, responds to authority queries, and coordinates medical tests and biometric appointments.
After approval, we assist with residence card collection, family visas, banking setup, property support, and settlement services in Oman. For applicants combining residency with business ownership, we provide integrated company formation support, including registration with MOCIIP, licensing, office setup, and operational guidance.
Many clients progress from standard Oman investor visa categories to Golden Visa status as their investments grow. We manage this transition while ensuring continuous compliance.
Ready to secure long-term residency? Contact us today for expert visa services in Oman and personalized guidance to turn your Golden Visa goals into reality.
FAQs
How long is the Oman Golden Visa valid for?
The Golden Visa is available in 5-year and 10-year formats, both renewable upon meeting conditions.
Can I work in Oman under the Golden Visa?
Yes, you can own and operate a business or work as a skilled professional under the visa’s terms.
Can I sponsor my children and parents?
Yes, Golden Visa holders can sponsor spouses, children, and dependent parents.
What is the minimum investment required?
For investors, the minimum is OMR 250,000 for a 5-year visa and OMR 500,000 for a 10-year visa.
Do I need to stay in Oman full-time to maintain the visa?
Generally, yes. You need to maintain your investment and spend a minimum number of days in Oman to keep your Golden Visa active.
