Oman Entry Rules Tighten to Curb Credential Fraud
Oman entry rules have been tightened for foreign workers as the Sultanate moves to strengthen labour market regulation and eliminate fraudulent employment practices. Authorities have issued a clear warning that expatriates submitting forged or fake documents will face severe legal consequences.
The new measures are part of Oman’s professional accreditation system, which requires foreign workers to verify their educational and professional qualifications before entering the country.
Oman Entry Rules Introduce Mandatory Qualification Verification
Under the revised Oman entry rules, expatriate workers must complete a formal verification process for their academic and professional credentials prior to arrival.
Zahir bin Abdullah Al Sheikh, Director of Professional Standards at the Ministry of Labour, said the initiative aims to improve workforce quality, regulate labour inflows, and protect regulated professions from credential fraud.
Foreign workers applying for jobs in regulated sectors such as engineering, logistics, and accounting must now undergo pre-arrival assessment through sector-specific skills units.
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Oman entry rules : Work Practice Licence Required Before Entry
As per the updated Oman entry rules, a work practice licence will only be issued after authorities verify the applicant’s qualifications.
Entry permits will not be granted unless the licence approval process is completed successfully. This marks a significant shift from previous procedures, where verification often occurred after arrival.
Officials say the new system ensures that only qualified professionals enter the Omani labour market.
Oman entry rules : Strict Penalties for Fake Documents
Authorities have made it clear that violations of the Oman entry rules will result in tough penalties.
Possible consequences include:
- Permanent or temporary employment bans
- Heavy fines
- Licence cancellation
- Deportation
- Referral to courts
The Ministry of Labour stressed that employers will also be held accountable if they facilitate, overlook, or knowingly accept fraudulent documentation.
Employers Also Under Scrutiny
Under the tightened Oman entry rules, employers are required to ensure that all foreign hires meet professional accreditation standards.
Companies found complicit in violations may face sanctions, licence suspensions, or legal action. Officials say shared responsibility is key to maintaining labour market integrity.
Impact on Foreign Workforce
The new regulations are expected to significantly impact expatriates seeking employment in Oman, particularly in technical and professional fields.
Authorities believe the reforms will:
- Improve service quality across industries
- Protect national and expatriate workers
- Enhance Oman’s global employment standards
Experts say early compliance will be critical for workers planning to relocate.
Historical Context: Labour Market Reforms in Oman
Oman has steadily reformed its labour policies over the past decade to reduce illegal employment, strengthen professional standards, and support long-term economic diversification.
The introduction of professional accreditation aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritizes skilled labour, transparency, and sustainable workforce development.
Previous reforms focused on localization and job regulation, while the latest Oman entry rules directly address qualification authenticity.
Oman entry rules : What Workers Should Do Next
Foreign workers planning to work in Oman should:
- Verify academic and professional documents through authorized channels
- Apply early for sectoral skills assessments
- Ensure full compliance before submitting visa applications
Failure to follow the updated Oman entry rules may result in permanent exclusion from the labour market.
Official Source
For official updates and guidelines, visit:
https://www.manpower.gov.om
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the new Oman entry rules for foreign workers?
Foreign workers must verify qualifications before entry and obtain a work practice licence.
Which professions are affected?
Engineering, logistics, accounting, and other regulated professions.
What happens if fake documents are submitted?
Penalties include bans, fines, deportation, and court action.
Are employers responsible too?
Yes, employers face penalties if they enable violations.
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