Expert Info
on 19 Jun 2020
Hi all, as an expat planning on moving to Oman soon, I’ve done lots of reading around working and living in Oman, but there are some things that I need some clarification on. Hoping that someone can help!
I’ve read that Oman is a great place to work for skilled expats but also has lots of expats from all over, such as the Philippines, India and Morocco of ranging skill levels. I understand that Omanisation laws aim to encourage the local Omani workforce and discourage expats, but by how much? Are quotas getting more and more limited each year or do they stay the same? I have seen that quotas vary across industries and that there are some zones that are Omanisation-free/reduced.
My concern is my family, will they be able to join me in Oman easily or will I face complications when organising their visas? Has anyone reported issues with visas for dependants and family in Oman? Thanks so much, your advice is appreciated!
Thanks so much,
Taylor
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance.
Medical insurance specifically designed for expats. With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider.
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!
Hello!
I’m sure that you’ve done a lot of research into the topic and seems you are quite clued up. Yes, you are right, expats of all skill levels live in Oman, people from cleaners and cooks to engineers and marketers have come from abroad. Oman has a large expat population but quotas are adjusted regularly. This means that while your job may be secure now, the following year, your contract may not be renewed. Be sure to read all the aspects of your contract so that your employer doesn’t terminate your contract early due to Omanisation. Have you already got your job secured?
Your concern for your family is completely understandable! I do not speak from personal experience so hopefully someone on the forum reaches out. Expat Arrivals has a useful guide on Visas for Oman that explains family-joining visas, which should be a fairly simple process (provided the processing has started, given COVID-19 regulations in Oman). Have you contacted the nearest embassy to find out more?
Hey, thanks for the feedback!
I had a read of the Visas for Oman page and found it really interesting, and useful for me and my work permit for Oman too.
Yes, I have a job lined up and I am going through negotiations with my employer before finalising the whole employment package. Is it too much to ask about them arranging my accommodation?
I’ve also read about the No Objection Certificate and a recent change in the law, how will this affect me?
That’s great, I’m glad you found them useful. Our whole guide, Moving to Oman, has helpful and essential tips and info on healthcare, schools and accommodation in the Sultanate of Oman.
Have you taken a look at the Working in Oman and Doing Business in Oman pages? They will be of most value. Expat Arrivals recommends negotiating for a solid employment package, ask all the things that are available to you and always be friendly. This will make a world of difference when you start working there.
The No Objection Certificate has been a pain for most expats – it has made it almost impossible to change jobs. If you want to leave your current job for a new company, your employer has had to sign the NOC to allow it, but as they have invested so much to get you there in the first place, many deny it. Luckily, the NOC regulations are due to ease in 2021 and expats in Oman are ecstatic! It should mean that changing jobs will be much easier. Yet to see how it actually unfolds, but you can follow the news on the Times of Oman website.
Hope that helps!
Getting a family visa does not have anything to do with Omanization. Once you get a job in Oman and your employer grants you family status it's up to you to exercise the option and proceed with issuing family visa for your family to join you.
Omanization might block you from getting a job at the first place especially if there's an Omani national who can fill the exact same job as you do.