Update December 26, 2025: The Ministry of Labor has announced a grace period until June 1, 2026, to allow workers in the energy and minerals sectors additional time to obtain the required professional practice licenses (or classification certificate, where applicable). Unlicensed work permit applicants in the energy and minerals sector will remain eligible for work permits until June 1, 2026. In addition, existing unlicensed employees may continue working without a license during the grace period but must obtain the required license by June 1, 2026. While the licensing obligation applies to a wide range of roles, only positions within the energy and minerals sectors, including crane operators, welders and technicians, benefit from this grace period. To avoid disruptions to business continuity, work permit issuance and renewal processes, employers should ensure that all affected employees secure their required license or certificate prior to the June 1, 2026 deadline.
September 4, 2025: Individuals in select professions within the energy and minerals, logistics and accounting, finance and auditing sectors must now obtain a professional practice license or classification certificate (depending the role) from a relevant Omani authority as a condition of being issued a new or renewed work permit. Though the process of obtaining the certificate is not yet outlined or clear, it may add time to the overall work permit application process.
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].
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