Oman's visa policies have evolved to accommodate the growing number of international visitors. While the visa-on-arrival option has been reinstated for certain nationalities, many travelers find the Oman eVisa to be a convenient alternative. This article will guide you through the essentials of obtaining an Oman visa, whether through the visa-on-arrival program or the eVisa system.
Understanding Oman's visa on arrival policy
- Eligibility criteria for different nationalities
- Recent changes and updates to the visa-on-arrival program
- Comparison between visa on arrival and eVisa options
According to the Royal Oman Police, the visa on arrival is reinstated for tourists from some eligible countries who can get the Oman Visa on Arrival at an Omani airport or any other border entry point. This visa is different from the eVisa.
If you're eligible for the visa on arrival and plan to stay in the country for two weeks or less, you can obtain it from an Omani border on entry to Oman. The visa is generally an entry only, with the option to extend it if needed.
Nationals from more than 70 countries, including the UK, EU member states, Canada, and the USA, are eligible for an Oman Visa on Arrival.
To find out if your nationality is on the list of eligible countries, visit the official Royal Oman Police website and use their eligibility checker.
iVisa Pro Tip: While the visa-on-arrival option exists, many travelers prefer the eVisa for its convenience and ability to avoid potential airport queues. We recommend applying for the eVisa in advance to ensure a smoother entry process.
Oman eVisa: A convenient alternative
- Benefits of choosing the eVisa over visa on arrival
- Step-by-step guide to applying for an Oman eVisa through iVisa
- Required documents and processing times
If you're not eligible for an Oman Visa on Arrival, you could be eligible for an Oman eVisa. The document issues an electronic visa for single or multiple entry permits and allows a stay of up to 90 days per entry.
We offer an Oman eVisa service that handles Oman eVisa applications.
Find out more about the Oman eVisa and apply with us.
How to apply for the Oman eVisa with us
Here's how to apply:
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Go to our website or download the iVisa App to start your visa application. Enter your personal and travel details.
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Verify that all your information is accurate. Select your preferred processing time, and pay the service fee with a credit or debit card, PayPal, or Alipay.
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Complete the application form, upload the necessary documents, and submit.
iVisa Customer feedback: "I was initially worried about the visa process, but iVisa made it incredibly simple. The form took less than 10 minutes to fill out, and I received my eVisa within 24 hours. Highly recommend!" - Sarah T., USA
Special considerations for GCC residents and other travelers
- Visa requirements for GCC residents
- Long-stay visa options and eligibility criteria
- Health and travel insurance recommendations
Long stays visa options in Oman require one of the following conditions:
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Be a permanent resident or have a valid visa from the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, or a Schengen country (on arrival).
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Be a GCC resident with a residence permit valid for a minimum of three months from the date of entry.
The eligible countries are: Algeria, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Costa Rica, Cuba, Egypt, El Salvador, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Mexico, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Mauritania, Mexico, Morocco, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
iVisa Pro Tip: GCC residents should ensure their residence permit is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay in Oman. We can assist in verifying your eligibility and guiding you through the application process.
Find out more about the Oman visa for GCC Residents and apply with us.
Comparison of the Oman VOA and eVisa
Here's a comparison of the visa on arrival and eVisa options:
Feature |
Visa on Arrival |
eVisa |
Application Process |
At the border |
Online |
Processing Time |
Immediate (but may involve queues) |
1-4 business days |
Validity |
14 days (extendable) |
Up to 1 year |
Entry Type |
Single entry |
Single or multiple entry |
Cost |
Varies by nationality |
Varies by nationality and processing speed |
The visa-on-arrival process typically involves the following steps:
- Arrive at an Omani airport or border crossing point
- Proceed to the visa counter
- Fill out the application form
- Present required documents (passport, return ticket, hotel booking)
- Pay the visa fee
- Receive your visa stamp in your passport
Navigating common challenges
While the visa-on-arrival system aims to be straightforward, some travelers may encounter challenges. Here's how these common concerns are addressed:
Challenge 1: Long queues at arrival
Many travelers worry about lengthy wait times at the visa counter upon arrival.
Solution: We at iVisa recommend arriving during off-peak hours when possible and having all necessary documents readily available to expedite the process.
Challenge 2: Uncertainty about eligibility
Some visitors are unsure if they qualify for a visa on arrival based on their nationality or travel history.
Solution: We provide up-to-date information on eligibility criteria and can assist in determining the best visa option for your specific situation.
Challenge 3: Limited validity period
The standard visa on arrival is valid for only 14 days, which may not be sufficient for some travelers.
Solution: We can guide you through the process of extending your visa or help you apply for an eVisa with a longer validity period if needed.
iVisa Customer feedback: "I was initially planning to get a visa on arrival, but after reading about the potential queues, I decided to use iVisa for an eVisa. It was so much easier, and I had peace of mind before my trip." - Michael R., Canada
Frequently asked questions about Oman visa on arrival
1. Can I extend my visa on arrival after entering Oman?
Yes, you can extend your visa on arrival for an additional week by visiting the Royal Oman Police Office. However, we recommend applying for an eVisa if you plan to stay longer than 14 days.
2. What documents do I need for a visa on arrival in Oman?
You'll need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for your stay.
3. How much does the Oman visa on arrival cost?
The cost varies depending on your nationality and the length of stay. It's best to check the current fees on the official Royal Oman Police website or contact us for the most up-to-date information.
4. Can I pay for my visa on arrival with a credit card?
Most border entry points accept credit card payments, but it's advisable to have some cash on hand just in case.
5. What if I'm denied a visa on arrival?
While rare, if you're denied a visa on arrival, you may need to return to your point of origin. This is why we strongly recommend applying for an eVisa through iVisa to avoid any potential issues at the border.
6. How does iVisa assist with Oman visas?
We specialize in simplifying the visa application process. While we don't directly handle visa-on-arrival applications, we can assist you in obtaining an eVisa, which offers a more secure and convenient option for entering Oman.
7. Is the visa-on-arrival option available at all entry points in Oman?
The visa on arrival is typically available at major airports and some land border crossings. However, it's always best to check the specific entry point you plan to use, as policies may vary.
Special considerations for GCC residents
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residents enjoy special privileges when it comes to entering Oman. Here's what you need to know:
- GCC residents with valid residence permits can obtain a visa on arrival
- The residence permit must be valid for at least 3 months from the date of entry
- Some professions may have restrictions, so it's important to check your eligibility
Visa options for GCC residents
Visa Type |
Validity |
Entry Type |
Requirements |
Visa on Arrival |
4 weeks |
Single |
Valid residence permit, passport |
Multiple Entry Visa |
1 year |
Multiple |
Application through sponsor, valid residence permit |
iVisa Pro Tip: GCC residents should always carry their residence permit along with their passports when traveling to Oman, as both documents will be checked at immigration.
Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about Oman or the Oman visa application. Contact us any time via our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.