Oman issues special work permit for foreigners

Syed Mutahir Hussain Shah • October 10, 2026 • World

Oman has started issuing special work permit to foreigners for domestic workers and those in similar professions.

Oman’s Ministry of Labour has made its special work permit service available online to foreign nationals, including Pakistanis, seeking to work in the country in eligible occupations.

The service covers non-Omani workers, including domestic workers and people employed in similar professions, according to reports about the ministry’s announcement.

Applicants can use the service to request new work permits, amend existing permits and, in certain circumstances, apply for replacement workers.

Applications can be submitted through the ministry’s electronic services portal or at Sanad service centres.

Applicants must provide information about the number of workers required, their occupations and the intended workplace.

Depending on the profession and the circumstances of an application, additional documents may be required. These can include a salary certificate, bank statement or proof of ownership of a house, other property or agricultural land.

Processing time, fees

The ministry says applications generally take between one day and one week to process, depending on the applicable requirements and whether all necessary documents have been provided.

The basic fee is listed as 101 Omani rials for one to three workers in certain eligible occupations. Higher charges may apply depending on the type of work and the number of workers requested.

Applicants are advised to check the applicable fees and eligibility requirements before submitting an application.

The online service is intended to simplify the process of applying for special work permits and managing existing permits for eligible foreign workers.

Pakistanis interested in the scheme should confirm that their intended occupation qualifies and check the latest requirements with Oman’s Ministry of Labour before applying.

 

About the Author

Syed Mutahir Hussain Shah

A media professional with a BS in Communication and Media Studies. He currently works as a Sub-Editor at Pakistan Connect, focusing on news writing, editing, and digital journalism.