Oman: Relaxed Entry Conditions Implemented for GCC Residents

The Royal Oman Police implemented relaxed eligibility requirements for entry to Oman for foreign nationals with a residency status in another Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country. GCC residents of all professions (except housekeepers, students, private drivers or spouses of residents) can now enter Oman on a visa-on-arrival, or obtain a pre-arranged electronic visa based on their GCC residency status. They must hold a residence permit in another GCC country with a minimum validity of three months, and a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry. In addition, they do not have to enter Oman directly from the country that issued their residence permit but instead, they can enter from anywhere. Previously, only those in select professions (mostly skilled) and those holding a passport issued by a specific country could obtain an electronic visa or a visa-on-arrival based on their GCC residency status. While the new rule already applies in practice at all ports of entry to Oman, the official e-Visa portal has not been updated yet to reflect the amended requirements.