Oman Work Permits: New Labour Regulations Introduced

Oman’s Ministry of Labour has announced a series of regulatory reforms governing the issuance and renewal of work and practice permits for expatriate workers. The new framework, part of the Sultanate’s ongoing labour market modernization, aims to strengthen workforce regulation, improve compliance standards, and align with Oman’s Vision 2040 objectives.

Key Highlights of the New Regulations

1. Enhanced Documentation Requirements
   Employers must now submit more detailed documentation for expatriate work permit applications, including proof of company compliance with Omanisation targets and sector-specific labour needs. This measure ensures fair employment opportunities for Omani nationals while maintaining a controlled inflow of foreign workers.
2. Digital Processing and Verification
   The Ministry has expanded the use of digital platforms for application submission, contract verification, and permit tracking. The integrated system will streamline communication between employers, employees, and government authorities, minimizing delays and improving transparency.
3. Sector-Specific Labour Quotas
   The new policy introduces clearer quotas for certain industries—particularly construction, oil and gas, health, and hospitality—based on labour market demand and workforce nationalisation goals.
4. Practice Permit Reforms for Professionals
   Foreign professionals such as engineers, doctors, and technicians must now obtain practice permits aligned with their professional licenses. Renewals will require updated qualification verification and employer endorsement to maintain quality standards across regulated sectors.
5. Compliance and Penalties
   The Ministry has strengthened penalties for employers violating labour regulations, including fines and potential suspension of company licenses for repeated non-compliance. Expatriate employees working without valid permits will also face legal consequences, including deportation.

Objective of the Policy

The reforms are designed to balance Oman’s economic diversification needs with its long-term strategy of empowering the local workforce. Authorities emphasize that the goal is not to reduce foreign participation, but to ensure orderly employment practices and improve job quality across all sectors.

Industry and Labour Market Impact

Employers are being encouraged to adapt swiftly by ensuring full documentation and digital readiness. Recruitment agencies and companies employing large expatriate workforces—particularly in construction, logistics, and healthcare—are expected to experience initial adjustments as they transition to the new framework.