Oman launches Golden Visa to attract investors; fees, tiers, duration explained

In a major step to strengthen its investment climate, Oman has officially launched a ‘Golden Residency’ visa programme aimed at foreign investors and expatriates seeking long-term residence in the Sultanate.

The announcement was made on August 31 by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, which emphasized that the initiative is designed to consolidate Oman’s position as a leading global investment hub.

Mubarak bin Mohammed Al-Douhani, Director General of Planning at the Ministry and head of its Digital Transformation Team, said the programme is focused on “providing a stable and stimulating business environment that offers investors high-quality opportunities for long-term growth and stability.”

Supporting Initiatives

Alongside the Golden Residency scheme, Oman will also roll out the ‘Majid Companies’ initiative and launch electronic authentication services for transferring commercial registration ownership through the ‘Invest Oman’ platform, according to the Oman News Agency.

Golden Residency Tiers

Oman’s Golden Visa offers two categories of Investment Residency Programmes, available through real estate investments, commercial ventures, or long-term bank deposits. Applicants can choose between a 10-year (Tier 1) or 5-year (Tier 2) renewable residency option, provided they meet the required criteria.

Tier 1 (10-Year Residency)

Applicants must fulfill one of the following conditions:

• Invest at least OMR 500,000 in a limited liability company, public joint-stock company, or government bonds.
• Purchase property worth not less than OMR 500,000 in the Sultanate.
• Establish a company employing at least 50 Omani nationals (no specific capital requirement).

The validity of Tier 1 residency is 10 years, renewable.
The application fee for the residency card is OMR 551.

Tier 2 (5-Year Residency)

Eligibility requires one of the following:

• Invest at least OMR 250,000 in a limited liability company or public joint-stock company.
• Purchase property worth not less than OMR 250,000 in the Sultanate.

Additionally, expatriates already residing in Oman who wish to retire in the country may apply for a residency permit by demonstrating a fixed monthly income of at least OMR 4,000.

The validity of Tier 2 residency is 5 years, renewable.
The application fee for the residency card is OMR 326.

Application Process

Investors and expatriates can apply for the Golden Residency visa directly via the ‘Invest Oman’ online platform, streamlining the process and ensuring transparency.