MUSCAT : June 7 will remain an important day for expats living in Oman, as nearly after 6 years, the country announced its plan to remove the No Objection Certificate (NOC) rule, paving way for hundreds of workers to switch jobs.

Starting from January 1, 2021, expat workers in Oman can switch employers more easily, provided they complete the contract period with their previous company.

Under current rules, if an expat does not obtain an NOC, they are banned from working in Oman for two years. However, the new amendment issued on Sunday, allows an employee to move from one company to another, provided they show the proof of their end of contract.

“The foreign employees must prove that they have completed the contract with their previous employers in order to join another company and they would not need the no-objection certificate. The new rule will be implemented from January 1, 2021,” said Article 24 amended by the Lt Gen Hassan bin Muhsin Al-Shuraiqi, Inspector General of Police and Customs.

Six-year wait over
Expats in the country welcomed the reform soon after it was announced. Speaking to The Arabian Stories, Rakesh Mehta, an HR expert said the change in rule will boost the labour market. “This is an excellent decision from the government. It will certainly boost the labour market in the county especially during this time of the coronavirus crisis,” Mehta said.

The NOC rule which was implemented in 2014, forced many expats to either stay in the same company or pursue new carriers in other countries. “It was a long wait. Over the last six years, some media celebrated it to increase their ratings, and there was so much sensationalism around the NOC with many speculations. Thankfully, it is all over now. We are happy that the government took this decision. I am sure this will certainly help hundreds of expat workers in the country,” said Mohammed Aslam, who is working as a senior marketing executive in a building materials company in Muscat.

Win-win situation for all
For Jibu Cherian who runs a business in Seeb, the new reform is a win-win situation for employers and employees. “The fact that they (employees) have to complete their period contract and then decide their future is a welcoming move. The company won’t be at any loss either. After completion of the contract, the employee can decide on his future. This is a win-win situation for both,” Jibu said.

Due to the coronavirus crisis, many companies in the Sultanate are laying-off expat workers. “Some companies refuse to give NOC despite terminating their staff. And it’s a relief for those who completed two years with these companies because they can look for new jobs,” Mehta added.