Oman Tightens Work Permit Rules: Professional Licenses Now Required for Select Jobs

Oman has just introduced a new layer of regulation for foreign workers. If you’re applying for a job in certain professional fields, your work permit will no longer be enough on its own. The Omani government now requires a professional practice license or a classification certificate before issuing or renewing a work permit.

What’s Changing

Until now, applying for or renewing a work permit in Oman has mainly focused on company sponsorship, labour approvals, and standard documents. That foundation still exists, but the government is adding another requirement for certain professions.

Individuals working in specialised fields like;

• Energy and Minerals
• Logistics
• Accounting
• Finance
• Auditing…

…must first get a professional practice license or a classification certificate from the relevant Omani authority. Without this certificate or license, a work permit application will not proceed.

This change impacts both new work permits and renewals. Therefore, existing expats in Oman may also need to comply with the latest requirements if their job falls into these categories.

Who Is Affected?

As we mentioned above, the change mainly targets skilled professions where technical accuracy and compliance are essential. Current categories include:

Energy and Minerals	Engineers, geologists, mining consultants, safety specialists, and energy project managers.
Logistics Sector	Supply chain managers, freight forwarders, transport operations leads, and warehousing specialists.
Accounting, Finance, and Auditing	Accountants, auditors, and financial analysts will likely be required to hold an Omani-recognised practice license.

While the government hasn’t published the complete list of specific roles, early signs indicate that any job requiring regulated technical knowledge or public trust will fall under the new framework.

What Is a Professional Practice License or Classification Certificate?

Professional Practice License

This usually applies to jobs that need proof of academic qualifications, professional memberships, or related experience. This includes roles like auditors or certified accountants.

Classification Certificate

Often linked to companies and their employees in logistics or contracting, where a business and its workers must meet sector-specific standards.

Applicants cannot move forward with their job offers until the authority issues the required license or certificate.

General Work Permit Requirements in Oman

Even without the new licensing rules, it’s important to know the basic requirements for foreign workers to obtain a work permit in Oman. Usually, the process involves:

• Employer Sponsorship: Only an Omani-registered company can apply on your behalf.
• Quota Approval: The employer must prove the role fits within the national labor quota system.
• Medical Clearance: A health check is required both in your home country and on arrival in Oman.
• Academic or Professional Qualifications: Diplomas, degrees, or certificates are often requested depending on the role.
• Police Clearance Certificate: Some sectors require a record of good conduct.

The new professional certificates now sit on top of these basics, effectively extending the timeline and paperwork needed.

Timelines and Practical Considerations

The new certification rules have been introduced in stages. Starting August 1, 2025, engineers must provide a professional classification certificate to get or renew a work permit.

Now, a month later, on September 1, 2025, finance professionals will have the same requirement. Other regulated sectors are likely to follow.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about work in Oman in these sectors, plan for extra time to get licensed. It’s also a good idea to check directly with the Ministry of Labor or the specific authority in your field to confirm if your role is included.