Oman to impose new work permit fees on expats from June 1

According to the decision, the new fee structure will cost OMR 2,001 to recruit expats in top positions, OMR 1,001 for mid-levels, and OMR 601 for technical and skilled workers.

The Sultanate’s Ministry of Labour announced that the new work permit fees would be applicable to expats who work in upper and intermediate occupations.

However, earlier the fees were RO 101 for one worker up to 5 workers, RO 151 for 6 to 10 workers provided that one Omani is employed in these enterprises.

For expat workers, it would also be in place for new work permits and new businesses.

In this regard, the ministry has issued an official statement according to which the move is to provide job opportunities for citizens in the private sector in the upper and intermediate occupations and in the technical and specialised professions, with the framework.

"The Ministry of Labour announces through the Ministerial Decision No. (2021/12) that the new fees for work permits for non-Omani workforces for upper and intermediate occupations and technical and specialised professions, as well as for new work permits and fees for new businesses, will be in force starting from June 1, 2021.”

Moreover, this decision will include new applications and previously submitted requests in the event that the employers have not initiated the fee payment due before the date of implementation of this decision.

The decision was made to increase Omanization, the nationalization program of various jobs in the Sultanate.