Oman: 22 more expats get citizenship (2024)

Oman: 22 more expats get citizenship (1)

Dubai: As many as 22 veteran expats in Oman have been granted citizenship, local media reported.

Oman’s Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik on Sunday issued a Royal Decree granting citizenship to 22 expats, local media reported.

This is the fourth batch of expats getting citizenship in Oman since the beginning of this year. Earlier in June, 30 expats had been granted the citizenship while in March this year, Sultan Haitham gave the citizenship to 39 expats. In February, 157 expats got Omani nationality.

How to get Omani citizenship

Expats who have been living in Oman for more than 20 years are eligible for citizenship if they fulfill the requirements of the Citizenship Law of Oman. All they need to do is comply with the procedures and submit the set of documents required. The decision rests with the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Executive regulation 92/2019 released by the ministry said the application for Omani citizenship will cost 600 riyals, while the application for an expat wife, widow, or divorcee of an Omani citizen is 300 riyals, as does the citizenship for an underage child of an Omani woman.

Expats who begin this procedure will have to undergo an Arabic language exam. The exam can be written, or it can be an interview in Arabic, at the ministry. Expats who fail the exam can repeat it once six months have passed, although they have four chances.

Applicants will need to prove that they live and work in Oman, and that they have not had any legal cases against them. They will also need to present a medical certificate to prove they do not have communicable diseases.

Applying to give up Omani citizenship or to have it returned will cost 200 riyals.

Article 16 of the law states: “Any who receive the Omani citizenship must visit the ministry to complete the procedures required for an Omani passport for him and underage children who will automatically receive it, within six months.”

The new citizens of Oman will not be able to spend more than six months outside the country at a go during the first 10 years after gaining citizenship, unless they receive a permit from the Ministry of Interior.

Oman: 22 more expats get citizenship (2024)

FAQs

Are expats granted citizenship in Oman? ›

Foreigners can apply for naturalisation if they meet specific conditions, including being an adult proficient in Arabic reading and writing, having a continuous legal residence of at least 20 years (or 10 years if married to an Omani woman), displaying good conduct, and having a legitimate means of livelihood.

Is it easy to get citizenship in Oman? ›

Oman nationality law determines who is a citizen of Oman and who is not. Foreigners are rarely given citizenship. Like the majority of Arab countries, Oman doesn't allow dual citizenship, except by the Royal Decree of the Sultan.

Does Oman allow dual citizenship? ›

Dual Nationality: Oman does not recognize dual nationality. Children of Omani fathers automatically acquire Omani citizenship at birth and must enter and exit Oman on their Omani passports.

How many expats left Oman? ›

Year 2020 was the worst for the expatriate workforce, as over 269,600 left Oman, while 33,655 left in 2021. In the two years, a total of 303,325 expatriate workers left the country.

Can a U.S. citizen live in Oman? ›

If you want to live and work in Oman, you will need a residence visa and a local sponsor. See below for information on how to obtain a work permit. You can check which visas are available on the website of the Royal Omani Police, who are responsible for issuing them.

How long can a U.S. citizen stay in Oman? ›

The Omani eVisa allows American citizens to stay for up to 30 days at a time. To move to Oman permanently or to visit for non-tourism activities, such as work, study, or business, US nationals will need to apply for the relevant type of visa in-person at the Omani Embassy in Washington DC.

What are the new rules for expats in Oman? ›

The new policy allows expats earning a minimum monthly salary of 150 Omani riyals (AED1,431 or $390) to bring their families to Oman. This marks a major shift from the previous requirement of a minimum of OMR350 per month to qualify for a dependent visa.

Where is the hardest to get citizenship? ›

17 Hardest Countries To Get Citizenship [Updated May 2023]
  • Qatar.
  • Vatican City.
  • Liechtenstein.
  • Bhutan.
  • Saudi Arabia.
  • Kuwait.
  • Switzerland.
  • China.

What country allows dual citizenship with the US? ›

American dual citizenship is possible in certain countries such as Portugal, Spain, Malta, Cyprus, Belgium, Denmark, Australia, the UK, and Dominica. The list may be subject to change depending on the changes in policy. Among them, Portugal and Spain offer Golden Visa programs.

What country does the US not allow dual citizenship? ›

Yes, some countries don't allow dual citizenship with America. Among them are China, United Arab Emirates, India, Austria, Japan, and some others. If you want to obtain citizenship of these countries, you need to renounce your American passport.

Can foreigners buy property in Oman? ›

You Are Here: Home Newsroom CAN FOREIGNERS BUY AND OWN A R... Can Foreigners Buy Real Estate in Oman? Yes, you can now purchase real estate in Oman. By giving foreign nationals the ability to own their own property to either reside in or rent out, the government is now promoting foreign investment.

Where do most expats live in Oman? ›

Most expatriates settle in the capital of Muscat, which forms a governorate of its own. Moreover, there's a large foreign-born population in Salalah, in the southernmost province of Dhofar.

Which is the largest expat community in Oman? ›

Bangladeshis largest group Bangladeshis continue to make up the largest expatriate community in the country: There are 546,182 expatriates from that country in Oman. The Indian expatriate population is the second-largest with 490,114 people.

Is Oman a third world? ›

According to the definition from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Oman is a developing country because of its lower economic performance. With a Human Development Index (HDI) of 0.816, Oman counts as one of the high developed economies by UN definition.

Are Americans welcome in Oman? ›

Foreigners are generally made to feel very welcome in Oman, although in return you'll be expected to abide scrupulously by Omani cultural norms.

Is US license valid in Oman? ›

How long can I use my country's driver's license here in Oman with a short visit visa? You can drive a car in Oman as long as have a visit visa valid for 3 months. In case you intend to reside in the country, you must get an Omani driving license.

Can Americans buy property in Oman? ›

Can Expats Buy Property in Oman? Yes, expats can now buy and own any property in Oman.

Can a US citizen stay out of the country for more than 6 months? ›

If you plan to stay outside of the United States for more than one year but less than two years, you will need a re-entry permit for readmission. You must be physically present in the United States when you file the Form I-131 to apply for the permit.

How much is a visa to Oman for US citizens? ›

Visa Classifications
Visa ClassificationFeeValidity Period
O-1$15.0024 Months 3
O-2$15.0024 Months 3
O-3$15.0024 Months 3
P-1$15.0024 Months 3
68 more rows

How many months can a US citizen stay out of the country? ›

While the normal limit is a year, you can stay longer and still preserve your US citizen if you are a military service member, Government employee, or meet any other criteria discussed above i.e., work for a US multinational or you proactively preserve residence.

Is Oman stricter than Dubai? ›

I have been to Oman quite a few times, it is a little more conservative than Dubai, but not overly so.

Is Oman tax free? ›

Currently, Oman is a tax-free nation, as there is no taxation on personal income. Moreover, there are no taxes on income from property, wealth, capital gains or death.

Which American country gives citizenship easily? ›

An Antigua and Barbuda passport offers you visa-free travel in 151 nations across the world. Antigua and Barbuda is one of the easiest countries to get citizenship by investment.

What is the strongest citizenship in the world? ›

According to the 2023 Henley Passport Index, Japan is the world's most powerful passport.

Which country is easiest to get US citizenship? ›

Due to the program's efficient and rapid process, Antigua and Barbuda is considered one of the easiest countries to get citizenship by investment. The Antigua and Barbuda passport provides its holders visa-free travel to over 140 nations worldwide.

Why is U.S. citizenship so hard? ›

Why Is It So Hard To Become A U.S. citizen? It is hard because of the long processing times, the financial and personal costs involved, and the fact that most immigrants do not have a direct relative that is a citizen of the United States.

Is U.S. citizenship powerful? ›

The main reason behind this strong US passport strength is that the US has negotiated and established treaties that allow US passport holders easy access to business, trade, and travel, which is itself evidence that the US has one of the most powerful passports in the world.

Which country has the easiest citizenship test? ›

Some easiest countries to get citizenship to include Canada, New Zealand, Portugal, Thailand, Australia and Ireland. Most people move abroad to improve their financial prospects and ultimately become citizens of that country. Becoming a permanent citizen of a new country requires you to fulfill certain obligations.

Can I have 3 citizenships in USA? ›

Yes, the U.S. does allow for triple citizenship and does not require naturalized U.S. citizens to give up citizenship in their home country or other countries.

Will the US stop dual citizenship? ›

Yes, the United States allows dual citizenship. If you are a naturalized citizen, you don't have to give up citizenship from your country of origin. U.S. immigration law does not prohibit dual nationality.

Can a U.S. citizen enter the US without a passport? ›

The American Citizen Services Section wants to remind all U.S. citizens not to travel outside the United States without a valid U.S. passport. While dual citizens may be able to travel abroad with alternative documentation, all U.S. citizens are required to present a U.S. passport to re-enter the United States.

How many passports can a U.S. citizen have? ›

There are multiple ways Americans can qualify for a second citizenship, including via marriage, birth, or citizenship by investment, a concept known as Golden Visa. In addition to having two passports from different countries, Americans can also simultaneously hold two U.S. passports.

Can I live in Canada if I am a U.S. citizen? ›

3) Can I live in Canada as an American citizen? Yes, if you are an American citizen, you may live in Canada. If your stay exceeds 180 days, you will most likely need a visa. You will also need a visa or work permit if you intend to work in Canada.

How many citizenships can an American have? ›

U.S. law does not mention dual nationality or require a person to choose one nationality or another. A U.S. citizen may naturalize in a foreign state without any risk to his or her U.S. citizenship.

Does Oman allow 100% foreign ownership? ›

One of the biggest changes in the new FCIL was allowing 100 per cent foreign ownership in a number of sectors. Removing the investment limits on foreign investors on capital markets is seen as a quantum leap over the previous reforms.

How much is house rent in Oman? ›

Cost of living in Oman chart
Accommodation (monthly rent)
One-bedroom apartment in the city centreOMR 250
Three-bedroom apartment in the city centreOMR 450
One-bedroom apartment outside the city centreOMR 170
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city centreOMR 300
21 more rows

How much money do you need to live in Oman? ›

The average monthly salary for a person living in Oman is around 2,082.76$ which, taking into consideration the prices in Oman makes it possible for the people of Oman to earn and live comfortably. The minimum wage in Oman is around 850$ which is also a lot higher than in many countries with similar prices.

Which is the rich area in Oman? ›

Al Qurum Shatti

This affluent beachside area, which translates to “The Beach of Al Qurum,” has some sections that resemble Greek-style coastal towns owing to the white and blue villas.

What is the safest city in Oman? ›

MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is ranked 8th on the index of countries with the highest quality of life, according to the world data encyclopedia, Numbeo. The Netherlands topped the list with 196.7 points, with Denmark in second place with 194.7 points.

How much do expats get paid in Oman? ›

The average monthly salary is around 170 OMR (£380), although a lot of expats choose to pay more.

What is the cheapest city to live in Oman? ›

A basket of goods costing $1,000 in New York costs $680 in Oman. Muscat: Expats living in Muscat pay less for goods and services than those who live in the capitals of the other five countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Why are there so many immigrants in Oman? ›

Immigration Into Oman

Because of the combination of a relatively small local Omani population and a fast-growing oil-driven economy, Oman has attracted many migrants.

Is it worth living in Oman? ›

Compared to other Middle Eastern countries, the standard of living in Oman is relatively high. Thanks to their generally price-indexed incomes, expatriates based in Oman can enjoy a high quality of life.

Is Oman a rich or Poor country? ›

If this is calculated per inhabitant, taking purchasing power parity into account, then Oman ranks 41st in the list of the richest countries. Inflation in Oman in 2022 was around 2.81%. Within the EU, the average in the same year was 9.22 percent. In the United States, it was most recently 8.00%.

What is Oman main source of income? ›

Oman is heavily dependent on oil and gas resources, which can generate between and 68% and 85% of government revenue, depending on fluctuations in commodity prices.

Can you drink alcohol in Oman? ›

It is a punishable offence under Omani law to drink alcohol in public, be drunk in a public area, or to drive under the influence. However, it is possible for tourists and visitors to buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs.

Do expats get citizenship? ›

Moving abroad permanently is the ultimate goal for many expatriates. And in order to stay in another country forever, foreigners need to obtain permanent residency or citizenship in the new country. When it comes to obtaining citizenship, every country has its own set of laws and requirements.

Do expats keep their citizenship? ›

One of the many benefits of becoming a U.S. citizen is that it's a stable status. Unlike the situation for lawful permanent residents (green card holders), a U.S. citizen can't lose citizenship solely by living outside of the United States for a long time.

Do expats have citizenship? ›

An expatriate, or expat, is an individual living and/or working in a country other than their country of citizenship, often temporarily and for work reasons. An expatriate can also be an individual who has relinquished citizenship in their home country to become a citizen of another.

Do expats retain citizenship? ›

Even if you are living permanently abroad, you still retain your American citizenship, your American passport and your voting rights.

Do expats get Social Security? ›

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.

What countries offer citizenship to U.S. citizens? ›

American dual citizenship is possible in certain countries such as Portugal, Spain, Malta, Cyprus, Belgium, Denmark, Australia, the UK, and Dominica. The list may be subject to change depending on the changes in policy.

Can a U.S. citizen stay out of the country for more than 6 months? ›

If you plan to stay outside of the United States for more than one year but less than two years, you will need a re-entry permit for readmission. You must be physically present in the United States when you file the Form I-131 to apply for the permit.

Will I lose my U.S. citizenship if I become a citizen of another country? ›

Learn about dual citizenship

Owe allegiance to both the U.S. and a foreign country. Must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the U.S. Do not have to choose one nationality over the other. As a U.S. citizen, you may naturalize in another country without risking your U.S. citizenship.

Can a U.S. citizen lose their citizenship? ›

You may lose your U.S. citizenship in specific cases, including if you: Run for public office in a foreign country (under certain conditions) Enter military service in a foreign country (under certain conditions) Apply for citizenship in a foreign country with the intention of giving up U.S. citizenship.

Is an expat still a U.S. citizen? ›

Expatriation is the process of relinquishing U.S. status. It includes both U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders (aka Legal Permanent Residents) who meet the definition of a Long-Term Resident (LTR). The baseline perspective is that formal expatriation rules apply to US Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents.

How many US citizens are expats? ›

In 2018, the Federal Voting Assistance Program estimated a total number of 4.8 million American civilians lived abroad, 3.9 million civilians, plus 1.2 million service members and other government-affiliated Americans.

What country are Americans moving to? ›

40% opt for the Western hemisphere — Canada, Central and South America. 26% move to Europe. 14% head to East Asia and the Pacific — think Australia and New Zealand as well as China and Japan. 14% head to the Middle East.

Do expats need a US address? ›

Depending on where you move to or travel to, you may not enjoy the standard of service that you've grown accustomed to from the U.S. postal service. You may need a U.S. mailing address to keep some other U.S. services. If you want to keep your U.S. bank account, you'll still need to maintain a U.S. address.

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