On this page, we will explain how to apply for a visit visa for Oman, the restrictions, the eligibility rules, and how to apply. For expert assistance with your immigration matter, contact Reiss Edwards, immigration lawyers and solicitors in London.
Tucked away on the southern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, Oman has a great deal to offer tourists and visitors from around the world. While it may appear to be a small country, Oman is, in fact, nearly 30% larger than the UK but has a population of only five million. As the oldest independent state in the Arab region, Oman has a rich blend of cultures from east and west and is known for its terraced orchards, fortresses, ancient mosques, rolling sand dunes, and vibrant culture. On this page, we will explain how to apply for a visit visa for Oman, the restrictions, the eligibility rules, and how to apply.
In most cases, if you are travelling to Oman for the purposes of a short visit, you will need a visit visa. However, if you are travelling from certain visa-exempt countries from within the Gulf region, this is not necessary.
There are six visa-exempt countries, of which five are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC); these include:
In addition, there is a sixth visa-exempt country that is most definitely not in the Gulf region; this is New Zealand.
In the case of the GCC countries, visitors to Oman can stay for up to four weeks (this is extendable by one week). Visitors from NZ can stay in Oman for up to three months.
Tourists from certain countries are able to obtain an eVisa for Oman by submitting an online application. This removes the requirement to visit an Omani embassy or consulate to apply for a traditional physical visa.
The following nationalities are eligible for an Oman visa online:
For nationals of some countries not on the exempt list or part of the eVisa scheme, it may be possible to secure a conditional eVisa. Visitors, including their spouse and children, can apply for a conditional eVisa if they are from one of the following countries and they hold either a visa or PR for Australia, Canada, Japan, the US, the UK, or the Schengen area:
Note; if you are travelling through Oman, as long you are transiting for less than six hours, you will not need to apply for or show an eVisa (you will only need to show your onwards travel tickets).
Omani eVisas are intended for short-term visits to Oman and are typically granted for up to 30 days (for a single entry visa). If granted a multiple entry visa, it is possible to travel to Oman for up to 30 days each time as many times as needed over a one year period.
The process of applying for an eVisa for Oman is completed online. The process is as follows:
It is important to note that the passport you use for your application must be valid for at least six months after your arrival in Oman.
Once you have applied online, you will be able to check the status of your application. The eVisa system will also send you a notification that your application has been received. Once the application for an eVisa is approved by the Royal Oman Police immigration, you will be advised by text and email of the outcome.
If your application for an eVisa is successful, you will then be able to travel to Oman. It is advisable to print your eVisa and show this on arrival. The border official will be able to view your visa details and then grant you entry to the country to start your visit.
If applying for an eVisa, you can expect to receive a decision within 24 hours from the submission of your application.
Yes, the eVisa for Oman can be extended. Renewal applications can only be completed from within the Sultanate of Oman. It is possible to apply for an eVisa renewal on the Royal Oman Police website. It is also possible to leave Oman and simply apply for a new eVisa to return to the country if required.
