Labour ministry eases work permit rules

MUSCAT: The Ministry of Labour has issued a new ministerial resolution introducing a comprehensive package of facilitations, fee reductions, and exemptions aimed at improving the work permit system in the Sultanate of Oman. Ministerial Resolution No. 602/2025 governs the issuance of work permits and practising work permits and is designed to simplify administrative procedures for employers while ensuring workers’ rights are fully protected.
The decision extends the validity of work permits for non-Omani employees from 15 to 24 months, addressing long-standing employer requests to align permits with the worker’s residency period. This change is expected to reduce administrative burdens, save costs, and provide greater workforce stability for businesses operating in the Sultanate.
Employers are now allowed to upgrade a worker’s profession in the work permit from a lower to a higher category by paying only the difference in fees, without having to issue a new licence. This measure offers greater flexibility for businesses and streamlines human resource planning, helping employers manage their workforce efficiently while maintaining compliance with Omani labour regulations.
The resolution also introduces targeted social exemptions. People with special needs, elderly individuals unable to care for themselves, those receiving family income benefits, and individuals with health conditions requiring special attention will be exempt from paying licensing fees when recruiting domestic workers, private nurses, nannies, private drivers, or home health aides. This ensures that vulnerable groups can access essential services without incurring financial hardship.
In recognition of the important role played by civil society and humanitarian organisations, the fees for recruiting non-Omani workers for these organisations have been reduced from RO 141 to RO 101. Business owners who meet the Omanisation targets will also benefit from a 30 per cent reduction in fees, while fees will double for establishments that fail to comply. This initiative underlines the government’s commitment to promoting employment for Omani citizens and supporting social responsibility among businesses.
The resolution further introduces a ceiling of RO 500 for late renewal fines per worker, easing the financial burden on employers and encouraging timely compliance. It provides additional exemptions from fees and fines in specific circumstances, such as the death of a worker or employer, repatriation of workers, changes in visa status, or when a worker files a labour complaint after contract expiry. These measures help balance the rights and obligations of both employers and employees.
The Ministry has also allowed employers and individuals to reclaim licensing fees or issue a new licence for a nominal charge of RO 1 per worker in cases including failed medical examinations, visa refusal, repatriation within 90 days, or administrative cancellations. Fines will be waived in cases such as chronic illness, withholding of passports by government authorities, bankruptcy, liquidation, or worker imprisonment.
Officials emphasised that these reforms form part of a broader strategy to modernise Oman’s labour system, enhance efficiency, and create a more flexible and transparent labour market. By simplifying procedures, reducing financial burdens, and providing social support, the Ministry aims to protect workers’ rights, support employers, and ensure sustainable economic and social growth.
Through these measures, the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to fostering a balanced labour market that serves both business needs and social welfare, while prioritising the protection of vulnerable groups and ensuring safe and organised access to essential services across the Sultanate of Oman.