Hiring a maid, nanny, or domestic helper in Oman is a regulated process governed by immigration and labor authorities. Whether you are an Omani citizen or a legally residing expatriate, you must follow official procedures to sponsor a domestic worker from abroad. Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines, visa rejection, or legal penalties.

This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about the maid visa in Oman, including eligibility criteria, step-by-step application procedures, required documents, fees, salary rules, sponsorship obligations, and common mistakes to avoid.

What Is a Maid Visa in Oman?

A maid visa in Oman is a special residence and employment visa that allows households to legally employ foreign domestic workers such as maids, nannies, cooks, and caregivers. The employer acts as the official sponsor and is fully responsible for the worker’s legal status during their stay in Oman.

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Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Maid Visa in Oman?

Eligibility Criteria for Omani Citizens

Omani nationals can sponsor a maid if they meet the following conditions:

Proof of sufficient and stable income
Suitable residential accommodation
Ability to pay the mandated salary and benefits
Valid civil ID and family records

Eligibility Criteria for Expatriate Residents

Foreign residents in Oman may also sponsor a maid, provided they:

Hold a valid Oman residence visa
Possess a valid labor card and employment contract
Are legally married and living with family
Meet minimum income and housing requirements

Who Is Not Allowed to Sponsor a Maid in Oman?

Single or bachelor residents
Individuals with insufficient income
Sponsors without adequate accommodation
Residents with visa violations or labor disputes

Types of Domestic Workers Covered Under Oman Maid Visa

The maid visa in Oman applies to various household roles, including:

Housemaids
Nannies and childcare providers
Elderly caregivers
Home cooks
General domestic helpers

Each category may require specific documentation depending on duties.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Maid Visa in Oman

Step 1: Obtain Special Labor Permit for a Maid

Before applying for the visa, the employer must secure a labor permit:

Complete the Special Laborer Application Form
Submit through an accredited typing center
Attach all required sponsor documents
Pay the government permit fee
Wait for approval from the labor authority

This permit authorizes you to recruit a foreign domestic worker.

Step 2: Apply for the Maid Visa Through Immigration

Once the labor permit is approved:

Submit the maid visa application to immigration
Attach sponsor and maid documents
Pay the visa issuance fee
Receive the official visa approval

The visa copy must be shared with the maid for travel arrangements.

Step 3: Medical Test and Entry into Oman

The maid must undergo a medical fitness test
Upon arrival, additional health screening may apply
Residence formalities must be completed promptly

Documents Required for Maid Visa in Oman

Documents Required From the Employer

Copy of passport and residence visa
Salary or income certificate
Recent bank statements
Marriage certificate
Labor card (for expatriates)
Health card and accommodation proof

Documents Required From the Maid

Passport with sufficient validity
Passport-size photographs
Medical fitness certificate
Home country labor registration
Visa copy after approval

Maid Visa Fees and Government Charges in Oman

The cost includes:

Labor permit fee
Visa issuance fee
Medical examination charges
Typing and processing service fees

Exact costs may vary depending on nationality and application channel.

Salary Rules and Employment Conditions for Maids in Oman

Government-mandated minimum salary applies
Salary may vary based on skills and nationality
Employers must provide food, accommodation, and medical care
Employment contracts must define duties, working hours, rest days, and leave

Sponsorship Responsibilities of Employers in Oman

Sponsors are legally responsible for:

Timely salary payments
Medical insurance and healthcare
Decent living conditions
Visa renewal and compliance
Repatriation costs at contract completion

Approved Countries for Hiring Maids in Oman

Domestic workers can be recruited from approved source countries, including:

India
Bangladesh
Sri Lanka
Philippines
African nations approved under bilateral agreements

Country eligibility may vary based on current labor regulations.

Processing Time for Oman Maid Visa

The complete process, from labor permit approval to visa issuance, typically takes several weeks depending on document accuracy and authority approvals.

Government Authorities Responsible for Maid Visa in Oman

Ministry of Manpower oversees labor permits and employment conditions
Royal Oman Police manages visa issuance and immigration compliance

Common Mistakes and Risks When Applying Independently

Many applications face rejection due to:

Incorrect or missing documents
Ineligible sponsor profiles
Fake or unverified maid credentials
Errors in forms or data mismatch
Ignoring updated labor rules

These mistakes can cause delays, financial loss, or permanent application bans.

Why Applying Through a Professional Oman Visa Service Is Safer

Using a professional visa service ensures:

Accurate document verification
Compliance with current regulations
Faster processing and reduced rejection risk
Expert handling of labor permits and immigration steps

How to Apply for an Oman Visa Online for Family and Entry Permits

If you also require entry permits, family visas, or other Oman visa types, you can explore detailed guidance here:

How To Apply With Oman E Visa

Final Thoughts on Hiring a Maid in Oman

Hiring a domestic worker in Oman is a responsibility that requires strict adherence to labor and immigration laws. By understanding eligibility rules, sponsorship duties, and proper procedures, employers can ensure a smooth and legal hiring experience.

For a hassle-free process and higher approval success, choose a reliable Oman visa service and apply with confidence today.