Oman Suspends Work Permits for Expat Workers Over 60 Years Old
Authorities in Oman have suspended the issuance and renewal of work permits for expatriate employees aged 60 and older. According to local media reports, several companies have recently had their applications for work permit renewals rejected for foreign staff members exceeding this age limit.
- Work permits are currently not being issued for expatriate employees over the age of 60 in Oman.
- This policy shift reverses a 2022 decision that had removed the 60-year age limit for experienced foreign workers.
- The change impacts long-term foreign nationals and creates operational challenges for employers.
Impact on Workers and Employers
Citing impacted workers and a senior official familiar with the situation, The Arabian Stories reported that work permits are currently not being issued for expatriate employees over the age of 60. Gulf News confirmed this policy shift, noting that it reverses a 2022 decision that had removed the 60-year age limit, thereby allowing experienced foreign workers to continue their employment within the private sector. This policy change is expected to have a direct impact on Indian and other foreign nationals who have worked in Oman for a long period and were anticipating permit renewals under the previous rules. It also presents significant operational challenges for employers who rely on the retention of experienced senior staff.
Verification and Residency Status
While the 60-year age limit is not yet explicitly stated on the Omani government's online work-permit service page, officials advise that employees with permits nearing expiration should immediately verify their status through their employer's HR department and the Ministry of Labour’s official system. Because employment visas and labour permits are interconnected in Oman, a failure to renew a work permit may jeopardize an individual's legal residency status. Employees are advised to obtain written confirmation from their employers regarding their residency situation.
Background and Official Advice
The 60-year age restriction was originally in place prior to 2022. It was lifted in January 2022 to enable private companies to retain experienced expatriate staff based on institutional need rather than age. The latest development marks a return to the prior regulatory framework. Affected employees and companies are urged to rely solely on official Ministry of Labour services and verified employer records rather than advice from agents or unauthorized sources.