Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining Visas for Traveling to Oman
The Royal Oman Police website has recently implemented enhancements to its electronic visa system, with the primary goal of streamlining and accelerating the visa application process for individuals traveling to the Sultanate for tourism and employment reasons. Under the updated system, successful electronic visa applicants can conveniently print their visas by adhering to the prescribed steps outlined below:
- Begin by logging into the personal account on the website.
- Search for the visa application.
- Enter the passport number or any other required information.
- Click the inquiry button and proceed to print the visa in PDF format.
What types of visas are available?
The electronic visa system in the Sultanate of Oman offers a variety of visas to meet the needs of different categories of travelers:
- Tourist visa for non-employed individuals.
- Tourist visa sponsored by an employer.
- Tourist visa for residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
- Fast-track visa for local employers.
The validity periods for utilizing visas post-issuance are determined as follows:
- A one-month validity for visas not sponsored by an employer.
- Three months validity for visas sponsored by a local employer.
- A one-month validity for expedited visas.
Processing Time for Electronic Visas:
Applications are promptly processed upon submission if they are complete and free of errors. Hence, it is recommended to submit the visa application at least 4 days prior to the intended arrival date in the Sultanate. The processing duration for applications varies based on each application’s status.
Entry into the Sultanate via land borders:
For tourists looking to enter the Sultanate by land, they must apply for a tourist visa through the electronic visa website: https://evisa.rop.gov.om and use any designated legal border crossing.
Visa for travelers arriving from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar:
A complimentary joint visa with Dubai and Qatar is available for those entering the Sultanate directly from Dubai or Qatar. Presently, these visas can be acquired through the conventional system rather than the electronic visa platform.
Traveling to Oman after visiting the United Arab Emirates:
- If you are a resident of the UAE or any Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country, you can travel using visa 29A (Tourist Visa for GCC Residents) or 29B if you are accompanying the primary traveler.
- If you are not a resident of a GCC country, you can obtain the visa provided that you hold a valid tourist visa for Dubai and have entered Dubai through its international airport. This visa is complimentary and can be extended for an additional week at no charge.
What is the visa application policy?
The Royal Oman Police website states that after submitting the application, paying the fees, and verifying the accuracy of the information, an electronic copy of the visa is sent to the registered email. It is important to note that payment does not automatically mean visa issuance.
For inquiries, individuals can contact the Call Center and Assistance Center, which has been activated to provide assistance and answer questions at the following numbers:
- Toll-free number within Oman: 80080011
- Outside Oman: +968 22848200
- Email: Info-OmaneVisa@rop.gov.om
Navigating the visa application process for traveling to Oman involves submitting an application, paying the required fees, and ensuring the accuracy of the provided information. Upon completion, an electronic copy of the visa is dispatched to the applicant’s registered email address. It is essential to note that payment does not guarantee immediate visa issuance. For further assistance and inquiries, individuals can contact the Call Center and Assistance Center using the provided toll-free number within Oman, the international phone number, or via email. This comprehensive guide aims to streamline the visa application process and facilitate a smoother entry into the Sultanate of Oman for travelers from various regions.
Translated from Rima Al Shaikh – Atheer
