Investing in Oman is an attractive option for foreign investors due to its economic and political stability, strong currency (Omani Rial), and strategic location in the Persian Gulf. The main methods of investing in the country include registering a company, purchasing property in designated government areas, and purchasing government bonds, which can lead to 5 or 10-year residency, depending on the amount of investment. It is important to note that Oman does not offer permanent residency or citizenship to investors.
Among the important benefits of investing in Oman are tax exemptions, extensive opportunities in the fields of oil and gas, tourism, real estate, and technology, as well as a balanced cost of living. However, the inability to obtain citizenship, restrictions on property purchases, and the possible effects of sanctions are among the challenges facing investors in this country.
If you are looking for more information about investment residency requirements in Oman, investment laws in Oman, and how to obtain Oman residency requirements, you can contact the experienced consultants at Flamingo Immigration Institute and benefit from a free initial consultation.
Summary of content in the Flamingo podcast:
«Investor residency in Oman offers flexible 5- and 10-year permits but does not lead to citizenship.»
Why invest in Oman?
Investing in Oman is attractive for many reasons to foreign investors, especially Iranians. Oman’s investment residency requirements, which include 5 or 10-year residency, are one of the most important incentives to enter this market. In addition, Oman’s investment laws make investing easy and profitable by offering tax exemptions, the possibility of 100% foreign ownership in some free zones, and government support.
On the other hand, Oman’s residency requirements allow investors to operate in a stable and growing economy with a strategic location in the Persian Gulf. The diverse opportunities in the oil and gas, tourism, real estate, agriculture, technology, and startup sectors make Oman an ideal destination for investment.
“Oman’s investor residency programs and supportive laws create a welcoming environment for foreign investors.”
Investment Requirements in Oman
To invest in Oman, applicants must meet some basic requirements. These requirements include having sufficient financial means to invest and cover their own and family’s living expenses, having no criminal record, being at least 21 years old, and having a valid passport. Meeting these requirements is one of the main prerequisites for investment residency in Oman.
Oman’s Gross Domestic Product Rate
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) rate is one of the important economic indicators that shows the health of the country’s economy. According to reports, Oman’s GDP rate has been increasing until 2021, indicating the dynamism and growth of the country’s economy. This is an important factor in evaluating investment laws in Oman and its attractiveness to foreign investors.
Minimum age for investment in Oman
According to investment laws in Oman, the minimum age to start investing in this country is 21 years. Investors should keep this in mind in order to comply with the investment residency requirements in Oman and succeed in obtaining residency.
Minimum Investment Amount in Oman
The amount of capital required to invest in Oman varies depending on the type of activity chosen. To choose the best investment method, investors must first determine their type of investment and then, based on that, examine the amount of capital required. This is important to meet the conditions for Oman residency and benefit from investment benefits.
Important points in investing in Oman
To be successful in investing and benefit from investment residency conditions in Oman, it is necessary to pay special attention to financial information, the GDP rate and relevant laws. Also, using legal and financial advice can be helpful in this regard.
“Financial stability and meeting legal requirements are key to investor residency in Oman"
Oman’s Legal Framework for Investment
Investing in Oman requires a thorough understanding of Oman’s investment laws and the country’s legal framework. One of the attractive options for investors is to operate on the Oman Stock Exchange, especially the Muscat Stock Exchange, which is known as one of the most stable exchanges in the region. This exchange provides a good opportunity to make a profit by providing regular rules and transparent access to information.
For investors who intend to trade and invest in Oman, it is essential to be familiar with the following laws:
- Foreign Capital Investment Law (FCIL): This law sets out the general framework for foreign investment in Oman and protects the rights of investors.
- Commercial Companies Law (CCL): It specifies the various business structures, how to obtain a license and how companies operate.
- Civil Transactions Law: This basic law, which was passed in 2013, governs all civil and commercial transactions in Oman.
- Labor Law: Defines the conditions for employing Omani and foreign workers.
- Income Tax Law (ITL): Regulates tax regulations related to various types of businesses and investments.
Issuing licenses for investment and trade
In order to start an economic activity in Oman, investors and traders must first obtain the necessary licenses from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and other relevant institutions. Having these licenses is considered a condition of investment residency in Oman and without them it is not possible to start a legal activity. The expert team of Flamingo Immigration Institute will be with you at all stages of obtaining licenses to starting a business.
Getting to know the investment laws in Oman
To start an economic activity in this country, investors – whether Omani or foreign – must act in accordance with the investment laws in Oman. According to the regulations approved by the government, before any action is taken to register a company or start a business, individual qualification is mandatory.
General requirements for registering a business entity
To start a company or company in Oman, the following conditions must be met:
- The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
- Non-Omani or non-Gulf nationals cannot register individual companies.
- The application for registration must be made before reserving the company’s trade name.
- The applicant must have valid identification (copy of national ID card) and be able to sign documents.
These laws are part of the conditions for investment residency in Oman and will have a direct impact on the issuance of a residence permit for investors.
Types of legal structures for companies in Oman
According to the investment laws in Oman, applicants can choose one of the following legal structures and start their business:
Legal Structure Type | Description |
Sole Proprietorship | Can only be registered by Omani or GCC nationals |
Branch of a Foreign Company | Requires government approval and legal registration |
Joint Venture | Suitable for partnerships with local investors |
Limited Liability Company (LLC) | The most commonly used structure for foreign investors |
Closed Joint Stock Company | Designed for large-scale and industrial projects |
New Foreign Investment Laws in Oman
One of the most important economic reforms in Oman in the last decade is related to foreign investment laws. The Omani government revised its executive regulations in 2022 to facilitate the entry of foreign investors.
According to the new laws:
- Foreign investors can own 100% of the company in many sectors.
- The minimum initial capital requirement for starting a business has been eliminated.
- Investors enjoy extensive tax exemptions.
- The possibility of operating in new economic and industrial sectors has been provided.
These reforms have been made in line with the development programs of the new Omani government led by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to increase foreign investment and expand employment opportunities. These changes have facilitated the process of obtaining Oman residency conditions for investors.
Benefits of Residency in Oman for Investors and Expatriates
Residing in Oman has many benefits that have made the country one of the most popular destinations for immigration and investment. From high security to a stable economy and reasonable living costs, all contribute to strengthening the conditions for living in Oman.
High security
Oman is one of the safest countries in the Middle East with a low crime rate. This feature has made many families and foreign investors choose Oman as a destination to live or work.
Diverse job opportunities
In addition to investment, the Omani job market also offers many opportunities for foreign professionals. Especially in the energy, health, technology and construction sectors, there is the possibility of employment with good salaries.
Affordable cost of living
Unlike neighboring countries such as the UAE or Qatar, the cost of living in Oman is more affordable. This is very important for expatriates looking for long-term residence.
Quality health and education system
Oman has advanced hospitals, clinics and educational centers. Many of these centers meet international standards and are considered a reliable option for families.
Visa-free travel
One of the important advantages of Oman’s residency requirements is the ability to travel freely to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries such as the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain without a visa.
Stable economy
Oman, relying on its oil and gas reserves and economic reforms, is a stable country in terms of investment and trade. This is an important incentive to benefit from the investment residency conditions in Oman.
Culture and language
Oman’s cultural similarities with Iran, as well as the official Arabic language, which is linguistically close to Persian, facilitate the adaptation process of Iranian immigrants.
Work immigration requirements to Oman
To work in Oman, you need to obtain a work visa. Key requirements include:
- Having a formal job offer from a reputable company or employer in Oman
- Being between 21 and 60 years of age
- Relevant work experience and a valid educational qualification
- Familiarity with Arabic or English
Work immigration can also be one of the initial routes to obtaining temporary residency and then exploring investment opportunities in Oman.
General conditions for work immigration to Oman
Work immigration to Oman is one of the most popular routes for people seeking to experience living and working in a country with economic and social stability. People who intend to obtain Oman residency through this route should first familiarize themselves with the general conditions of this route.
Main requirements for obtaining an Omani work visa
To apply for a work visa in Oman, the following requirements are necessary:
- Receive a job offer: The Omani employer must obtain a work permit for you from the Omani Ministry of Manpower.
- Legal age: The applicant must be between 21 and 60 years old.
- Work experience: Usually, at least 3 years of work experience related to the desired job is required.
- Educational qualification: An educational qualification appropriate to the job must be provided.
- Language skills: Fluency in English or Arabic is required in many jobs.
- Certificate of no criminal record: This certificate must be provided by the legal authorities of the country of origin.
- Medical tests: The applicant must undergo a medical examination and obtain a health certificate.
- Identity documents: A copy of the passport and other identity documents are also required.
- Administrative fees: The applicant must pay the work visa fee at the official rate.
- Temporary Residence: After entering Oman and starting work, it is necessary to issue a temporary residence card.
These are part of the Oman residence conditions for foreign workers.
Steps to obtain an Oman work visa
The process of obtaining an Oman work visa step by step includes the following steps:
Step | Description |
1. Finding an Employer | Identifying a company in Oman that is willing to offer a job. |
2. Receiving a Job Offer | The employer sends an official job offer to the applicant. |
3. Work Permit | The employer obtains a permit from the Omani Ministry of Manpower. |
4. Completing Forms | Filling out and submitting the work visa application along with required documents. |
5. Paying Fees | Paying the administrative fees related to the issuance of the work visa. |
6. Visa Issuance | If approved, the visa is issued and the applicant can enter Oman. |
Investment Methods in Oman
Investment in Oman is an attractive way for many people to obtain temporary residency and take advantage of the country’s economic opportunities. However, unlike some countries, Oman’s residency requirements are designed in such a way that investors are not granted citizenship or permanent residency. Investment in Oman is mostly done with the aim of economic activity and obtaining 5 or 10-year residency.
The main investment methods in Oman:
- Buying property in authorized areas
- Registering a business company with full participation or ownership
- Investing and purchasing a warehouse
- Exporting and importing
Each of these routes provides the investor with the opportunity to obtain temporary residency, depending on the amount of capital invested.
Investment residency requirements in Oman and the amount required
Two levels of investment are foreseen to obtain temporary residency in Oman through investment:
Residency Type | Minimum Investment Required | Methods |
5-Year Residency | At least OMR 250,000 | Company registration, property purchase, or bond purchase |
10-Year Residency | At least OMR 500,000 | Same methods with a higher investment amount |
These residence permits are issued on a renewable basis and include some residency rights in the country; however, investors are still not granted citizenship or permanent residency.
Steps to Investing in Oman
For successful investment in Oman, it is essential to comply with the investment laws in Oman and go through the following steps:
- Market research and selecting the appropriate sector: Examining existing markets (oil and gas, tourism, technology, real estate, etc.) and selecting the target area.
- Selecting the investment method: Deciding to invest through company registration, property purchase, or bonds.
- Obtaining legal permits: Obtaining the necessary permits from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, or Oman Investment Authority.
- Company registration or official property purchase: Official action to register a company or transfer property ownership.
- Opening a bank account: Creating an official bank account to carry out financial transactions and support the project.
- Starting investment and economic activity: Implementing the project or economic activity after completing the legal procedures.
- Obtaining temporary residency in Oman: Depending on the type of investment and its value, a temporary residency can be extended.
- Paying taxes and complying with laws: The investor is required to comply with the country’s tax and trade laws.
Documents required to obtain an investment visa in Oman
One of the important steps in the process of immigration to Oman through investment is preparing the required documents. According to the investment laws in Oman, applicants must provide the following documents to obtain an investment visa:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Personal identification documents (national card or equivalent)
- Personal photo (passport size)
- Business registration documents and company articles of association (for legal entities)
- Work permit certificate issued by the Ministry of Manpower with the investor’s seal
- Bank statement or proof of financial means
- Identification documents of all shareholders (in the case of group investment or company registration)
These documents are part of the conditions for investment residency in Oman, and additional items may be requested depending on the specific conditions of each individual or type of investment.
How long does it take to obtain Oman residency?
According to the experience of the Flamingo Institute, the time required to issue Oman residency usually varies between 20 and 30 working days. Factors such as official holidays, administrative bureaucracy, changes in laws or the volume of files are effective in this period.
Is Oman residency better or Dubai?
In terms of residency conditions, both countries offer suitable opportunities for investors. However, Oman residency conditions are more affordable than Dubai in terms of peace of life, the solitude of the cities and the cost of living. As the capital of Oman, Muscat has a more traditional architectural style and, unlike Dubai, does not focus much on building towers and skyscrapers. This feature can be desirable for people looking for peace and natural space.
How to obtain Oman residency through investment
To obtain Oman investment residency, the applicant must, according to Oman’s investment laws, use one of the permitted methods such as registering a company, purchasing property or investing, and purchasing a shed from Flamingo and provide the necessary capital. By submitting the aforementioned documents, obtaining legal permits, and paying the fees, a 5- or 10-year residency will be issued to the individual.
