Your Business Passport to the Middle East: Inside the Oman Business Visa

Yes, tourism is one of Oman’s prominent selling points, but that does not mean that the business aspect of the world is untouched by Oman, and what do you know, there’s a visa dedicated to your business ventures in Oman- the Oman Business Visa.
If you want your visa process to be quick, easy, and affordable, this guide is your best friend. From outlining the important Oman business visa requirements to making the application process easy for you, we walk you through every step, to make sure you get a smooth and stress-free journey. Just have faith, scroll on read further, and leave the rest to omanvisa.org.

Oman Business Visa

An Oman business visa serves as your passport to productive commercial activities in the Sultanate if you are traveling for any of the following purposes:

In short, if you intend to actively engage with public sector bodies or private business entities based in Oman for mutually beneficial commercial collaborations, then obtaining an appropriate category of business visa in advance of travel is vital for smooth entry and compliance.
Oman offers huge potential for foreign companies looking to enter and set up their businesses in the new markets in the Gulf region. From tourism and transport to construction, energy, financial services, and specialized manufacturing, Oman is diversifying its economy based on a strategic blueprint called ‘Vision 2040’ with major projects and incentives aimed at attracting foreign investment and expertise across promising sectors.
The Oman Business visa sets the path straight for such business plans with potential. It grants senior personnel from registered enterprises overseas many privileges for up to 30 days to identify opportunities, network extensively, demonstrate products or services, contribute know-how and professional consulting, negotiate deals and sign agreements to grow business in Oman or access neighboring high-growth markets.

How to Apply for an Oman Business Visa

Obtaining an Oman business visa requires diligent preparation, compliance with documentation guidelines, and working with a reputable agency to facilitate stress-free approvals. Here are the key steps:

Eligibility for Oman Business Visa

Gaining eligibility for an Oman business visa requires meeting key thresholds regarding your credentials, travel insurance, character profile, and financial means.

Proof of Business Ownership and Purpose of Visit

You must be able to substantiate owning or holding a senior leadership role in a registered non-Omani company operational for at least 3 years. Paperwork validating incorporation status and business activities is required.
Additionally, the formal invitation letter from the sponsoring entity in Oman must clarify details like – the nature of planned business dealings, names of parties involved, and durations and locations of meetings, events, or trade conferences to attend.

Medical Insurance

Submitting proof of travel medical coverage from a reputed international insurance provider is mandatory when applying for a visa. The policy must have a minimum coverage of $100,000 and specifically mention validity for Oman. This protection is important in case some sort of medical emergency comes forth during your travel, and stay.

Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

A recent PCC verifies that you have no criminal record, serious fines, convictions, or jail sentences in your home country or others lived in over the last 10 years. This background clearance certificate helps in building credibility for your character, building a stronger case for your visa application.

Sufficient Funds

With business visits involving significant investments of time and money in Oman, proof of financial means to sustain the entire trip duration becomes critical.
Be prepared to show a minimum of $100 per day for costs via the latest bank statements, verified by bank seals. Credit cards, forex, or travel currency cards specifically activated for Oman are also accepted.

Requirements Documents for Oman Business Visa

Business Visa Overview

The Oman business visa allows business travelers to enter the country for commercial work activities such as meetings, conferences, trade shows, negotiations, marketing, sales calls, etc.
It must be sponsored by an Omani company or entity that provides a formal invitation letter explaining the purpose and duration of the visit.
Business visas are issued as single entry, double entry, or multiple entry and are generally valid for use within 3 months from the date of issue.

Passport Requirements

• The passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining beyond the intended duration of stay in Oman.
• It should have a minimum of 2 blank pages side by side to affix visa stickers and stamps.
• Provide clear scanned copies of the front page and last page of the passport showing details.

Invitation Letter

• Formal invitation letter addressed to the visa authorities from the sponsoring Omani company/entity.
• It should be printed on company letterhead mentioning names and designations.
• The letter must outline the nature, duration, and purpose of the Oman visit for business.

Completed Visa Application Form

• Neatly filled Oman visa application form with black ink and block letters.
• All personal and professional details should be accurately entered as per passport.
• Leave sections blank if not applicable rather than using N/A or dashes.

Passport Size Photographs

• Submit 2 recent color passport-size photographs with white background.
• Photos should be professionally taken and be 45mm x 35mm in dimension.
• The face should cover 70-80% of the photo area with a neutral expression.

Proof of Return Travel

• Confirmed return flight tickets or bookings showing intent to exit Oman after business.
• This helps confirm that the individual has sufficient funds for a return ticket and won’t overstay their duration.

Hotel Reservations

• Proof of booked hotel or apartment stays for the entire duration of the Oman visit.
• Reservations should include reference numbers and contact details.

Financial Capacity Evidence

• Applicants should showcase at least $100 per day for expenses.
• Bank statements, fixed deposit receipts, and credit limit certificates can be provided.
• Income tax returns, salary slips, and company annual reports also work.

Application Process

• Obtain Application Form: Access the form online or request it directly from the agency.
• Complete the Form: Carefully fill in accurate personal and trip details.
• Submit Application: Send the finished form and documents to the agency.
• Visa Processing: Wait as the agency submits it to Omani immigration for approval.
• Collect Visa: Get notified when it's approved and arrange collection or delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How long is the Oman business visa valid?

A1. The Oman business visa is generally valid for a 90-day stay from the date of entry.

Q2. What documents do I need to apply for an Oman business visa?

A2. Required documents include a passport, invitation letter, application form, photos, travel bookings, hotel reservation, and financial proof.

Q3. Who can provide the invitation letter for my Oman business visa?

A3. The letter should be from your sponsoring Omani company/entity outlining the purpose of your visit.

Q4. How many entries does the Oman business visa allow?

A4. Oman issues single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry business visas valid for 3 months.

Q5. What is the maximum duration of stay with an Oman business visa?

A5. The maximum duration allowed is 90 days from the date of first entry which can be extended to 1 year.

Q6. How soon before my trip should I apply for a business visa?

A6. You should apply at least 15-30 days in advance before your planned trip.

Q7. What is the application fee for the Oman business visa?

A7. Fees start around $100 but vary based on nationality, processing, service charges, entries allowed, etc.

Q8. How long does it take to get the approval after applying?

A8. The average processing time is 5-15 working days but can vary case by case.

Q9. Do I need travel insurance to apply for a business visa?

A9. Yes, proof of valid travel health insurance is a requirement to apply.

Q10. What type of financial proof is required for the business visa?

A10. Bank statements, income statements, and fixed deposit receipts can be provided showing adequate funds.

Q11. Can I extend my business visa when I am in Oman?

A11. Yes, with approvals from authorities and sponsor companies, business visas can be extended up to 1 year in total.

Q12. Is police clearance required for the Oman business visa?

A12. Yes, a clean police clearance certificate needs to be submitted especially from your home country.

Q13. Can I change employers after entering Oman on a business visa?

A13. No, the Oman business visa only allows working for the sponsoring entity in most cases.

Q14. Can my spouse/family join me on the Oman business visa?

A14. No, family members cannot accompany or join on a business visa. Tourist or family visas must be obtained.

Q15. What is the fine or penalty for overstaying my business visa?

A15. Overstaying results in fines of OMR 20 per day which can go over OMR 6000 for lengthy delays.

Q16. How do I track the status of my submitted visa application?

A16. You can track the real-time processing status by contacting your agency for regular updates.

Q17. What is the best way to get the visa application form?

A17. The form can easily be downloaded online or obtained from an accredited visa processing agency.

Q18. What size should my passport photos be for the business visa?

A18. Photos should be 45mm x 35mm in dimension with 70-80% face coverage on a white background.

Q19. Can I enter Oman on a business visa via land borders?

A19. No, the business visa is valid for entry only through airports while other types allow land entries.

Q20. What activities can I not do on the Oman business visa?

A20. Any work or business not mentioned in the approval letter and illegal activities are strictly prohibited.