By Shuja Ahmad | MakeMyCompany | Updated: Feb 2026
Whether you are a foreign entrepreneur exploring market opportunities in the Sultanate, a business owner attending commercial negotiations, or a UAE-based professional travelling for trade meetings, understanding how the Oman business visa works in 2026 is essential before you travel. This guide consolidates everything you need to know about the Oman business visa process, costs, validity rules, multiple entry options, and the legal boundaries of what this visa permits. If you are still evaluating whether to set up a company in Oman, see our full guide on Business Setup in Oman before deciding which visa pathway suits your situation.
What Is an Oman Business Visa?
An Oman business visa is a short-term entry authorisation issued to foreign nationals who intend to visit Oman for commercial purposes. It covers activities such as attending business meetings, conducting market research, visiting trade partners, participating in conferences, and exploring investment opportunities.
It does not authorise the holder to take up employment, receive a salary from an Omani entity, or perform work that requires a labour clearance or residence card. The business visa operates as a commercial visit permit and sits in a distinct category from both the tourist visa and the employment visa.
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) Directorate General of Passports and Residence is the primary authority responsible for issuing and regulating business visas in Oman.
Who Needs a Business Visa in Oman?
Not every foreign national travelling to Oman for business purposes requires a separate business visa. The requirement depends on nationality.
Nationals from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not require a visa to enter Oman. Citizens of certain countries benefit from visa-on-arrival arrangements or e-visa eligibility for short business visits. Nationals from countries without these arrangements must apply for a business visa in advance through the ROP portal or via a sponsoring entity in Oman.
Foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners from South Asia, Africa, and parts of Asia typically fall into the category requiring advance visa approval. Those already residing in the UAE should read the specific section on business visas for UAE residents further below, as a dedicated pathway applies.
The ROP e-services portal maintains the current list of nationalities and their applicable entry conditions, which should be verified before travel planning begins.
Difference Between Business Visa and Investor Visa in Oman
This is one of the most commonly misunderstood distinctions in Oman’s visa landscape. The two are fundamentally different in purpose, duration, and legal status.
A business visa is a temporary authorization to visit. It is short-term, does not confer residency rights, and does not allow the holder to operate a business, sign commercial contracts on behalf of a registered Omani entity, or draw income. It is suitable for exploratory visits, meetings, and due diligence trips.
An investor visa (also referred to as a residence visa under the investor category) is a long-term residency instrument granted to foreign nationals who have made a qualifying investment in Oman, typically through company ownership or shareholding in a registered Omani entity. It provides legal residency status, allows the holder to manage their business, and is renewable on a long-term basis.
If you have already registered a company in Oman or plan to do so, an investor visa is the appropriate pathway rather than repeated business visa entries. For full details on the investor route, see our guide on the Golden Visa in Oman, which covers long-term residency options for eligible investors.
Single Entry vs Multiple Entry Business Visa in Oman
Oman’s business visa is available in two entry formats, and choosing the right one depends on the frequency of your travel.
Single Entry Business Visa
A single-entry business visa allows the holder to enter Oman once. Once the holder exits Oman, the visa is considered used and cannot be reused for re-entry. This option suits entrepreneurs making a one-time market visit or attending a specific conference or trade event.
Multiple Entry Business Visa
A multiple-entry business visa allows the holder to enter and exit Oman multiple times during the visa’s validity. This is the preferred option for business owners and consultants who travel to Oman regularly for ongoing negotiations, partnership meetings, or project oversight. Each stay is subject to the maximum permitted duration per visit, and cumulative stay must not exceed the limits set by the ROP.
Comparison Table: Oman Business Visa Types vs Investor Visa
| Visa Type | Entry Type | Validity | Stay Duration | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Entry Business Visa | Single | 30 days from issue | Up to 30 days | One-time market visits, trade events |
| Multiple Entry Business Visa | Multiple | 1 year from issue | Up to 30 days per visit | Frequent business travellers, ongoing negotiations |
| Investor Visa (Residence) | Multiple | 2 to 5 years (renewable) | Full residency | Company owners, shareholders, long-term investors |
Validity Period and Stay Duration Rules
How Long Is the Oman Business Visa Valid?
The validity of an Oman business visa refers to the window within which the holder must enter Oman, not the total duration of stay permitted inside the country.
A standard single-entry business visa is typically valid for 30 days from the date of issue. The holder must enter Oman within this window, or the visa expires unused.
A multiple-entry business visa is typically valid for 1 year from the date of issue, during which the holder can make repeated entries.
Stay Duration Per Visit
Each entry under a business visa typically permits a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions beyond this period are possible but require an application to the ROP before the authorised stay expires. Overstaying without an approved extension is a violation subject to daily fines.
Overstay fines in Oman are calculated at OMR 10 per day for business visa violations, which is significantly higher than for some other visa categories. Travellers must track their entry dates carefully. For details on the cancellation and exit process, refer to our guide on Oman Visa Cancellation Rules.
How Long Does an Oman Business Visa Take?
Processing time is one of the first questions entrepreneurs ask, particularly when planning time-sensitive trade trips or investor meetings.
Standard Processing Timeline
| Application Stage | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Document preparation and submission | 1 to 2 working days |
| ROP review and approval | 3 to 7 working days |
| Visa issuance and notification | Same day as approval |
| Total end-to-end | 4 to 9 working days |
Factors That Affect Processing Time
Several variables can extend the standard processing window beyond 7 working days:
- Incomplete documentation: Missing or improperly attested documents trigger a revision request, adding 3-5 days to the process.
- Peak travel periods: Applications submitted during Oman national holidays, the Hajj season, or major commercial events in Muscat may experience higher processing volumes and longer queues at the ROP.
- Nationality-specific checks: Applicants from certain nationalities are subject to additional security screening, which can extend processing time beyond the standard range without prior notice.
- Sponsorship delays: If a local sponsor or business host in Oman is required to issue an invitation letter and that document is delayed, the visa submission itself cannot proceed.
Applicants should plan their submissions at least 10 working days before the intended travel date to allow for any administrative delays. You can monitor your application’s progress on the Oman Visa Status Check portal after you submit it.
Oman Business Visa Cost Breakdown 2026
The cost structure for an Oman business visa varies based on entry type and nationality. The following figures reflect standard government fee schedules as of early 2026. Service charges from authorised visa agents or consultancies are separate and vary by provider.
| Fee Item | Amount (OMR) |
|---|---|
| Single entry business visa (standard) | OMR 5 to 20 (nationality-dependent) |
| Multiple entry business visa (1 year) | OMR 50 to 100 (nationality-dependent) |
| Business visa extension (per application) | OMR 10 to 20 |
| Overstay fine (per day) | OMR 10 |
| Urgent processing surcharge (where applicable) | OMR 20 to 30 |
Fees are payable through the ROP e-services portal using accepted payment methods including credit card and local banking channels. Always confirm the applicable fee for your specific nationality before submission, as the fee schedule is nationality-tiered.
Documents Required for an Oman Business Visa
Submitting a complete document set from the first attempt is the most effective way to avoid processing delays. The required documents for an Oman business visa typically include the following:
Applicant Documents
- Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity beyond the intended date of entry
- Completed visa application form (submitted via ROP portal)
- Recent passport-sized photograph (white background, taken within the last 3 months)
- Confirmed return flight itinerary or onward travel booking
- Proof of accommodation in Oman (hotel booking confirmation or host address)
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds for the intended stay (typically covering the last 3 months)
- Travel insurance valid for the duration of the Oman visit
Business-Specific Supporting Documents
- An invitation letter from the sponsoring Omani company or business host, printed on company letterhead and signed by an authorised signatory.
- Host company’s valid commercial registration copy
- Applicant’s business card or company letter confirming their role and purpose of travel
- For conference or event attendance: registration confirmation or official event invitation
The invitation letter is one of the most critical documents in a business visa application. It must clearly state the purpose of the visit, the name and designation of the host contact, the intended dates of visit, and confirmation that the host accepts responsibility for the visitor during their stay.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Oman Business Visa
Step 1: Confirm Visa Requirement for Your Nationality
Before starting the application, verify whether your nationality requires advance visa approval, qualifies for a visa on arrival, or qualifies for an e-visa through the ROP official portal.
Step 2: Obtain an Invitation Letter from Your Oman Host
Contact your business partner, client, or event organiser in Oman and request a formal invitation letter on their company letterhead. This document is required for most nationalities applying for a business visa.
Step 3: Prepare Your Full Document Set
Compile all required documents as listed in the documents section above. Ensure your passport photograph meets the ROP specifications and that your bank statement covers at least the past 3 months.
Step 4: Submit Application via ROP e-Services Portal
Access the Royal Oman Police e-services portal and submit your application online. Upload all required documents in the accepted file formats and complete the payment of applicable fees.
Step 5: Track Your Application Status
After submission, you will receive a reference number. Use this to track your application progress through the ROP portal, or follow the Oman Visa Status Check guide for step-by-step instructions.
Step 6: Receive Visa and Travel
Once approved, download or print your visa approval document. Carry it with your passport when you travel to Oman. Upon arrival, present it at the immigration counter for processing of the entry stamp.
Can You Work on an Oman Business Visa?
This is a legally important question with significant compliance implications.
No. An Oman business visa does not authorise employment, paid or unpaid, for any Omani entity. Activities permitted under a business visa include attending meetings, conducting market research, participating in trade negotiations, visiting suppliers or clients, and attending conferences and exhibitions.
Activities that constitute employment and are not permitted under a business visa include performing contracted services for an Omani company, receiving salary or compensation from an Omani entity, managing day-to-day business operations as a resident employee, and signing contracts on behalf of an Omani company in an executive capacity.
Engaging in employment activities on a business visa is a violation of Oman’s Labour Law (Royal Decree No. 35/2003) and immigration regulations. Penalties include deportation, fines, and a ban on re-entry. The sponsoring company may also face regulatory consequences.
an a Business Visa Be Converted to a Work or Investor Visa in Oman?
In-country conversion of a business visa to an employment or investor visa is not a standard permitted procedure under Oman’s immigration framework. A foreign national on a business visa who wishes to take up employment or formally register as an investor must exit Oman and apply for the appropriate visa category from outside the country.
The correct sequence for someone transitioning from a business visit to formal establishment is to complete business registration through Invest Easy, return to their home country or country of residence, and apply for the investor or employment visa through the proper channel before re-entering Oman.
Oman Business Visa for UAE Residents
Foreign nationals residing in the UAE are among the largest groups of business visitors to Oman. The Oman-UAE land border at Hatta and air connections from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah make the route particularly active for short business trips.
UAE residents who are GCC nationals do not require a visa. Non-GCC nationals residing in the UAE on a valid UAE residence visa may be eligible to apply for an Oman business visa through the e-visa system or through a local sponsor, depending on their nationality.
UAE residents with valid residency status in the UAE are generally processed more smoothly at the application stage due to the established bilateral relationship between Oman and the UAE. Applicants should ensure their UAE residence visa is valid for at least the duration of their Oman trip and, ideally, beyond.
The invitation letter requirement still applies for most nationalities even when applying from the UAE, and the same document standards described above must be met.
Business Visa for Foreign Entrepreneurs in Oman
Oman has been actively positioning itself as an investment-friendly destination under its Vision 2040 economic diversification strategy. For foreign entrepreneurs conducting preliminary due diligence before committing to company formation, the business visa is the correct entry mechanism.
During a business visa visit, entrepreneurs can legally meet with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP), attend meetings with potential local partners or agents, visit free zones such as the Duqm Special Economic Zone or Sohar Freezone, consult with legal and corporate services providers, and conduct market and feasibility research.
What they cannot do is begin trading, sign agreements that commit an Omani legal entity, or take up a role that requires a labour clearance. The business visa is an exploration instrument, not a licence to operate.
For entrepreneurs ready to move beyond exploration, the next step is company registration and an investor residence visa. See our guide on the Golden Visa in Oman for long-term residency options available to qualifying investors.
When Should You Apply for an Investor Visa Instead?
If your engagement with Oman moves beyond periodic meetings into active company ownership or management, a business visa is no longer the appropriate instrument. You should consider applying for an investor visa when you have completed company registration in Oman and hold a shareholding position, when you need to reside in Oman for extended periods to manage your business operations, when you require a residence card to open a personal bank account, enter contracts, or access government services as a resident, or when your business activity requires regular interactions with government bodies that expect a resident-status representative.
The investor visa provides a legal residency framework that the business visa cannot replicate. Processing the transition through the correct sequence protects both the investor and the company from compliance exposure.
Common Reasons for Oman Business Visa Rejection
Understanding why applications are rejected helps you submit a stronger application on the first attempt.
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation: Any mismatch between the information in your application form and your supporting documents triggers rejection. This includes discrepancies in dates, names, or stated purpose of travel.
- Weak or missing invitation letter: An invitation letter that lacks the host company’s commercial registration number, an authorised signature, or a clear statement of visit purpose is frequently flagged as insufficient.
- Insufficient financial proof: Bank statements showing low balances, irregular transactions, or covering less than 3 months are a common rejection trigger, particularly for first-time applicants.
- Passport validity too short: Passports with less than 6 months of validity remaining at the intended entry date are routinely rejected, regardless of the quality of other documents.
- Prior immigration violations: Applicants with a history of overstaying a previous Oman visa or any recorded immigration violation may face rejection or heightened scrutiny.
- Travel history inconsistencies: Applications where the stated purpose of the visit is inconsistent with the applicant’s travel history or professional background may be questioned.
Business Visa Extension and Renewal Rules
If your business activities require a longer stay than the originally granted period, you must submit an extension application to the ROP before the authorised stay expires. Submitting after expiry is treated as an overstaying violation.
Extensions are granted at the ROP’s discretion and are not guaranteed. A valid reason supported by documentation, such as ongoing business negotiations, a delayed scheduled meeting, or a signed letter from the sponsoring host requesting an extension, strengthens the application.
The maximum permitted total stay on a business visa, including any extensions, is generally 60 days. Travellers requiring a longer presence in Oman should consider whether a more appropriate visa category applies to their situation.
Compliance and Legal Limitations of the Oman Business Visa
The Oman business visa operates within a strict legal boundary. The key compliance points every holder must understand are:
The visa is issued for commercial visit purposes only and does not grant residency status or the right to work. Conducting any activity that generates income from an Omani source while on a business visa is a violation of both immigration and labour regulations. The ILO’s international labour standards framework, to which Oman is committed, reinforces that labour participation requires proper authorisation from the Ministry of Labour.
Business visitors must maintain a valid passport, carry their visa approval document at all times during the visit, and comply with all exit requirements before the authorised stay expires. Any change in the purpose of the visit after entry, such as accepting a job offer, must be addressed through a formal visa change procedure outside Oman, not through in-country conversion.
FAQ: Oman Business Visa 2026
1. What is an Oman business visa, and what does it allow?
An Oman business visa is a short-term entry permit for foreign nationals visiting Oman for commercial purposes such as meetings, negotiations, market research, and trade events. It does not permit employment or income-generating activity within Oman.
2. How long does it take to get a business visa for Oman?
Standard processing takes between 3 and 7 working days from the date of complete document submission. The total end-to-end timeline, including preparation, is typically 4 to 9 working days. Peak season and incomplete documents can extend this beyond 10 working days.
3. How long is the Oman business visa valid?
A single-entry business visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. A multiple-entry business visa is valid for 1 year from the date of issue, with each stay limited to up to 30 days.
4. What is the cost of an Oman business visa in 2026?
A single-entry business visa costs approximately OMR 5-20, depending on nationality. A multiple-entry business visa (1 year) costs approximately OMR 50-100. Extension applications cost OMR 10-20. Overstay fines are OMR 10 per day.
5. What documents are required for an Oman business visa?
Key documents include a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), completed application form, passport photograph, return flight itinerary, hotel booking, 3-month bank statement, invitation letter from the Omani host company, and the host company’s commercial registration copy.
6. Can I work on an Oman business visa?
No. The business visa does not authorise employment. It permits only commercial visit activities, such as meetings, research, and negotiations. Working without proper authorisation is a violation subject to deportation, fines, and potential entry bans.
7. What is the difference between a business visa and an investor visa in Oman?
A business visa is a short-term visit permit with no residency rights. An investor visa is a long-term residence instrument granted to company owners and shareholders. If you own or manage a registered company in Oman, the investor visa is the correct category, not a repeated business visa.
8. Can I convert my business visa to a work visa or investor visa inside Oman?
No. In-country conversion is not permitted. You must exit Oman and apply for the appropriate visa category from outside the country after completing the relevant registration or employment formalities.
9. Can UAE residents apply for an Oman business visa?
Yes. Non-GCC nationals residing in the UAE on a valid UAE residence visa may apply for an Oman business visa. The standard document requirements apply, including the invitation letter requirement for most nationalities.
10. What are the most common reasons for an Oman business visa rejection?
Common rejection reasons include incomplete documentation, a weak or unsigned invitation letter, insufficient bank statement balance, a passport with less than 6 months’ validity, prior immigration violations in Oman, and inconsistencies between the stated travel purpose and the applicant’s background.
11. What happens if I overstay my Oman business visa?
Overstaying incurs a fine of OMR 10 per day and constitutes an immigration violation. Repeated overstays or significant violations can result in deportation and a ban on future entry to Oman. Extensions must be applied for before the authorised stay period expires.
12. Do I need an invitation letter for an Oman business visa?
An invitation letter from a registered Omani company or business host is required for most nationalities. The letter must be on company letterhead, signed by an authorised signatory, and clearly state the purpose of the visit, the host details, and the intended travel dates.
Final Compliance Checklist for Business Visa Applicants
Before submitting your Oman business visa application, confirm the following:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended entry date
- An invitation letter obtained from the Oman host company and correctly formatted
- Host company’s commercial registration copy attached
- Bank statement covering the last 3 months prepared
- Return flight and accommodation booking confirmed
- Passport photograph meets ROP specifications
- Application submitted with sufficient lead time (minimum 10 working days before travel)
- Correct visa type selected (single or multiple entry) based on travel frequency
- Entry and exit dates tracked to avoid overstay
- The purpose of the visit remains within business visit parameters throughout the stay
Need Help with Your Oman Business Visa?
For entrepreneurs and business owners navigating the application process for the first time or managing regular business travel to Oman, the documentation requirements and coordination of invitation letters can be time-consuming. MakeMyCompany, based in Muttrah, Muscat, assists with invitation letter preparation, document review, ROP submission coordination, and business registration for those ready to move from a business visit to formal company setup in Oman. Reach out to the team if you need guidance on which visa pathway fits your specific situation.
This guide reflects Oman’s business visa procedures as understood at the time of publication in Feb 2026. Visa regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the Royal Oman Police Passports and Residence Directorate before proceeding.
