Visa Renewal Grace Period Ends July 31: What It Means for Businesses and Investors in Oman
Muscat: The Ministry of Labour has issued an important reminder to individuals, employers, and workers that the grace period for rectifying legal employment status will conclude on July 31, 2025. This includes visa (labour card) renewals that can be completed without incurring fines.
This initiative, first announced in January, is part of a comprehensive campaign aimed at regulating the labour market and supporting both employers and employees. The package includes waivers for fines and financial obligations totaling over OMR 60 million. Notable exemptions comprise the cancellation of fines for labour cards that have been expired and inactive for more than seven years, the waiver of financial obligations for repatriation tickets issued in 2017 and earlier, and the removal of obligations concerning liquidated companies for which workers have already been repatriated or transferred.
The six-month grace period, which commenced on February 1, 2025, has facilitated individuals in renewing their labour cards, resolving work abandonment reports, transferring worker services, and settling repatriation ticket costs without penalties.
The Ministry has stressed that no applications will be accepted after July 31, 2025, urging all relevant parties to complete their procedures in time through the Ministry’s official website and approved service delivery channels.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The impending July 31, 2025 deadline for rectifying legal employment statuses presents both opportunities and risks for businesses in Oman. Companies that proactively manage their workforce compliance could benefit from cost savings by avoiding fines and enhancing operational efficiency, while those unprepared may face significant disruptions and financial liabilities. Smart investors should focus on regulatory compliance strategies and explore partnerships that optimize workforce management to capitalize on this transitional period.
