Every country enforces its own immigration rules, and Oman visa policy is no exception. Whether you are a citizen of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), an expatriate living in the UAE, or a traveler from another country, understanding these rules is essential before applying for an Oman visa.

This guide explains:

Which travelers require a visa to enter Oman
Countries exempt from visa requirements
The conditional eVisa scheme
Oman’s common visa facility with Dubai and Qatar
Transit visa rules

With the right knowledge, you can avoid mistakes and ensure a smooth entry into Oman in 2026.

Do You Need a Visa to Enter Oman?

Yes, most foreign nationals need a valid Oman visa or Oman eVisa to enter the country. However, exceptions exist for citizens of certain GCC countries and travelers under special visa arrangements.

Visa-Free Entry Countries

GCC Nationals

Citizens of the five GCC member states can travel to Oman without a visa. A valid passport is sufficient.

Bahrain
Kuwait
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates

Countries Requiring an Oman Visa

Travelers from 71+ countries must apply for an Oman eVisa before entry. The standard option is a 30-day single-entry tourist visa, though other types (business, student, work) are available based on eligibility.

Eligible Countries

Some major eligible countries include:

Asia: India, China, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea
Europe: All EU member states, UK, Switzerland, Norway, Russia
Americas: USA, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
Middle East & Others: Turkey, Iran, South Africa

📌 Note: Always check updated requirements on the official portal Apply Oman Visa Online.

End of Visa on Arrival in Oman

Until February 2019, Oman offered a visa on arrival facility. However, this has been discontinued.

Now, all travelers must apply for an Oman eVisa before arrival.
In rare cases, Muscat International Airport still issues visas on arrival, but only as exceptions.

Conditional eVisa Policy

Oman offers conditional eVisas for nationals of 21 countries if they meet certain criteria.

Who Qualifies?

Spouses and children of GCC residents
Travelers with valid visas or residence permits from:
- Schengen Area
- Australia
- Canada
- Japan
- UK
- USA

Visa Options

10-day single-entry eVisa
30-day multiple-entry eVisa

Validity: 10 days (single entry) or 1 year (multiple entry).

Common Visa Facility with Dubai & Qatar

Oman shares a common visa agreement with Dubai (UAE) and Qatar.

Dubai-Oman Visa: Valid for 21 days
Qatar-Oman Visa: Valid for 30 days

This facility allows travelers holding valid Dubai or Qatar visas to enter Oman without applying for a separate visa.

Transit Visa Policy in Oman

Foreigners transiting through Oman can stay up to 6 hours without a visa, provided that:

They hold a valid onward ticket
They remain on the same connecting flight

For longer layovers, a transit visa or eVisa will be required.

Conclusion

Oman’s visa policy is designed to simplify travel while ensuring border security. While GCC nationals enjoy visa-free entry, most other travelers must apply for an Oman eVisa online before arrival. Conditional eVisas, common visa facilities, and short-term transit options make Oman more accessible for global visitors.

👉 To avoid last-minute issues, apply for your visa securely via Oman E Visa Online and enjoy a stress-free journey in 2026.