Oman: New Labor Law Overhauls Immigration System
November 21, 2024
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At a Glance
- The government of Oman issued a new labor law which is in immediate effect and replaces regulations originally issued in 2003.
- The new law applies to all employers and employees, except those whose work is regulated by special law or regulations.
- Notable changes include a reduction of minimum weekly working hours, new mandatory employment contract terms, new possible forms of employment, the ability to change employers, and new rules surrounding Omanization, among others.
- The law is expected to promote transparency in workers’ rights while maintaining a balanced and beneficial employment relationship for both employers and employees.
- Update - November 21, 2024: As anticipated, the Ministry of Labor has released implementing regulations with respect to this law. Although these regulations address various labor law issues (including worker rights, penalties and training) they do not contain any specific updates on immigration or mobility issues, alternative work models (for instance, remote or part-time work), or change-of-employer processes.
The situation
The Ministry of Labor (MOL) of Oman issued a new labor law which is in immediate effect. The new law applies to all employers and employees, except those whose work is regulated by special law or regulations.
A closer look
The following are some notable changes:
| CHANGE | NEW LAW | OLD LAW | IMPACT |
| Reduced minimum weekly working hours and increased work leave |
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| New mandatory employment contract terms |
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| New forms of employment |
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| Ability to change employer |
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| Stricter Omanization Rules |
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Implementing regulations. Update - November 21, 2024: As anticipated, the Ministry of Labor has released implementing regulations with respect to this law. Although these regulations address various labor law issues (including worker rights, penalties and training) they do not contain any specific updates on immigration or mobility issues, alternative work models (for instance, remote or part-time work), or change-of-employer processes.
Background
The new law creates a more modern and inclusive labor framework, modifying an outdated law from 2003, and aims to promote transparency in worker’s rights and obligations while creating a balanced working relationship for both employers and employees.
Looking ahead
The MOL is expected to issue implementing regulations that will provide further framework and details of the new law. It is not clear when these regulations will be available.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
