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Recruit Omanis instead of expats and reduce operational costs, Ministry tells companies

Recruiting Omani workers will reduce the operational costs of any institution, says Ministry of Labour.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Monday, June 7, 2021

MUSCAT: With the government increasing the work permit fees for expat workers in the country, the Ministry of Labour said it will help to recruit Omani citizens in private sector companies in the country.

On June 1, the Ministry implemented the new work permit fees applicable to expats who work in upper and intermediate occupations as well as technical and specialized professions. According to the decision, the new fee structure will cost OMR 2,000 to recruit expats in top positions, OMR 1,000 for mid levels, and OMR 600 for technical and skilled workers. The fees are applicable for new work permits and renewals.

While the Ministry acknowledged that the government is willing to listen to the demands of the employers, it also urged the companies to recruit Omani citizens. “Recruiting Omani workers will reduce the operational costs of any institution and they are more efficient,” Ministry said.

“Our specialists are fully prepared to listen to the demands of the employers, study their needs for manpower, and prepare a government-supported replacement plan,” Ministry added.

As per the list issued by the Ministry, more than 30 professions will attract the maximum fee of OMR 2,000 per work permit, while more than 120 professions will cost OMR 1,000 per work permit, and 622 professions will be charged OMR 600 per work permit.

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