MUSCAT, Oct 11 - The travel-related establishments in Oman have been asked to comply with the rules vis-à-vis issue of non-sponsored tourist visas for nationalities of India, China and Russia.
The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) and the Oman Airport Management Company sent out a circular to all the travel and tourism institutions asking them to comply with provisions related to tourist visas to these nationalities. The Royal Oman Police (ROP) had set the conditions for facilitating visitors from these countries.
All airlines operating from the Muscat International Airport have been asked to comply with these conditions, failing which the visa will be declared null.
Some of these conditions include holding of a passport valid for at least six months. He/she should reside in or hold entry visa to either the US, Canada, Australia, the UK or the Schengen states.
Applicant should have a return ticket and confirmed hotel reservation. Non-sponsored visas will be issued for a period of one month for a fee RO 20. “These three countries are considered niche markets for Oman tourism and we are aiming to attract people from these countries,” said Salem Adi al Mamari, Director-General of Tourism Promotion, MoT.
“The visa can be issued to the spouse or children of the visa-holder if they accompany him, and even if they do not have a visa from these countries.” At the same time, authorities can prohibit citizens who meet the visa conditions “if the public interest so requires”.
“Any person who avails of such a visa but breaches regulations or fails to adhere to terms and conditions will be blacklisted and prohibited from entering the country. They will also be compelled to pay fine in accordance with the provisions of Foreigners’ Residence Law and Executive Regulations,” Al Mamry said.
KABEER YOUSUF
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