MUSCAT: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology has launched the Unified Government Services Portal (gov.om), a comprehensive platform aimed at providing easy and seamless access to essential government services for both citizens and residents.
The portal is designed to simplify the process of obtaining information and services, eliminate the need for navigating through multiple platforms and streamline procedures between government entities.
Currently, the portal hosts 91 fully digital services from 10 government entities, following the successful launch of 23 services in the first phase.
The second phase, scheduled for launch between March and June, will bring 63 more services, expanding the portal’s capabilities and further improving access to government services.
Among the key offerings of the portal that benefit expatriates are services related to business activities, including starting, practicing and completing business activities, along with obtaining necessary permits for events.
Expats can also apply for visas for various purposes, such as tourism, work and investment, all via the portal. Additionally, there are e-services dedicated to reporting corruption, abuse and begging, ensuring fair law application and the protection of citizens' rights.
Other services for expatriates include obtaining medical fitness certificates for resident cards, renewing those cards, cancelling SIM card electronic authentication, and handling taxation services like income tax returns, VAT refunds for non-resident foreign individuals, and tax residency certificates.
The portal also includes services for rental properties, such as lease contracts, obtaining property mortgage releases, no-objection permits for demolitions and real estate development project licences. Further, there are services for managing labour-related tasks for both Omanis and non-Omanis in the private sector.
In the tourism sector, the portal contributes to the development of Oman’s tourism industry by offering services that attract international visitors.
With its comprehensive range of services, the Unified Government Services Portal represents a significant step towards digitising government processes and improving accessibility for all residents, including expatriates.
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