Oman Removes Sponsor Requirement for Property Owners
Foreigners looking to invest in Omani real estate have a new pathway to stability. Under a recent Royal Oman Police (ROP) ruling, property owners can now obtain residency permits and owner visas without the need for a local sponsor, traditionally known as a kafeel.
This significant shift in residency regulations comes via ROP Decision Number 87/2026, which was published in Official Gazette number 1653. The decree, which took effect on June 22, 2026, aims to streamline the process for international investors seeking to establish a foothold in the Sultanate.
Key Details of the New Residency Rules
The new regulations offer several advantages for foreign nationals, particularly regarding family reunification and investment flexibility. Key highlights include:
- Family Inclusion: Qualifying property owners are permitted to include their spouses and first-degree relatives under the same residency file.
- Off-Plan Protections: For investors purchasing off-plan units where registration is still pending, the government offers a renewable visa lasting between 6 to 12 months. This allows for a stay of up to 3 months per entry.
- Entry Requirements: To initiate the residency process, beneficiaries must enter Oman within 3 months of their visa being issued.
However, applicants should be aware that this residency status is tied directly to property ownership. Residency expires immediately upon the sale of the property. Additionally, non-GCC nationals are restricted to purchasing properties within designated Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITC).
Distinction from the Golden Residency Program
It is important for prospective residents to distinguish this new rule from the existing Golden Residency program. While the new property owner visa offers sponsor-free status, the Golden Residency is a separate tier requiring specific, higher investment thresholds in assets such as companies, shares, bonds, or property.
The Golden Residency program has seen massive interest since its relaunch in August 2025. Official data from the Ministry of Economy and Oman TV reveals:
- Approximately 56,000 applications have been received to date.
- During the first five months of 2026, the program averaged 5,500 applications per month.
- The largest groups of applicants hail from India, the United Kingdom, and Egypt, with 70 percent of these applicants already residing in Oman.
Golden Residency permits typically provide a 10-year renewable status, with some ITC investment thresholds set at OMR 200,000 (approximately USD 520,000). Processing for these applications is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026, with approvals likely following within three months.
Economic Advantages for Expats in Oman
Beyond residency changes, Oman continues to position itself as an attractive destination for expatriates through several economic incentives:
The Sultanate maintains a no personal income tax policy and has implemented a zero-VAT policy on 1,546 essential items, including food and medicine, effective October 1, 2026. Furthermore, the previous 60-year age limit for work permits has been removed, opening more doors for experienced professionals