MUSCAT: Expatriates aged above 60-years working in private sector will be allowed to renew their visa in Oman, according to a circular issued by the Ministry of Labour.

According to a circular issued by His Excellency Professor Mahad Bin Said Bin Ali Baawain, Minister of Labour, the earlier decision that bans the renewal of visa for expatriate workers over 60-years of age has been cancelled. The circular which was issued on January 23 has instructed the concerned departments to implement the decision.

“It’s a great news for those (expats) who have been staying here for a long time. It certainly helps to improve the labour market in the country,” said P. Sulaiman Rasheed, a long-term expat resident in Muscat.

As part of improving the investment climate in Oman, the government is offering long-term residency visa of five to 10 years to expatriates wishing to invest or reside in Oman and the permit can be renewed after expiry.

At the end of December 2021, the expatriate population dropped to 38.1% (1,723,329).