Oman has finally rolled out a new 10-year Golden Residency programme aimed at attracting global investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. The initiative, unveiled at the “Sustainable Business Environment” forum in Salalah, is a central part of Oman’s Vision 2040 strategy to boost private sector growth and foreign investment.

Oman’s Golden Residency Program

Oman’s new Golden Residency is a 10-year renewable visa designed to give foreign investors and skilled professionals long-term stability. Unlike short-term work or business visas, this visa allows individuals to live in Oman with their families and invest across multiple sectors of the economy.

The permit covers;

• Spouses
• Children
• First-Degree Relatives.

With no age or number restrictions, the Golden Residency Programme is more flexible than many other residency-by-investment programs elsewhere in the Gulf.

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible for the Oman Golden Residency Visa, investors must need to meeting a minimum investment threshold of 200,000 Omani rials (about $520,000). Applicants can qualify through any of these seven routes:

1. Establishing or owning companies with capital and assets worth at least 200,000 OMR.
2. Purchasing property within integrated tourism complexes.
3. Holding any government development bonds with a minimum of two years to maturity.
4. Investing in listed equities with a minimum value of 200,000 OMR.
5. Maintaining a fixed bank deposit of 200,000 OMR for five years.
6. Owning companies employing at least 50 Omani nationals with 200,000 OMR capital.
7. Being nominated under the Foreign Investment Law by qualifying companies, with the possibility of multiple nominations.

In addition to the above-mentioned requirements, applicants must also meet basic criteria, including being at least 21 years old, holding a valid passport, having a clean criminal record, and demonstrating financial solvency.

Documents Required

Applicants who wish to apply for the Golden Residency visa should prepare essential documents such as;

• Proof of investment (Property Deeds, Business Licenses, or Bond Certificates)
• Bank Statements
• Police Clearance Certificates
• Valid Health Insurance
• Family Relationship Documents (Marriage or Birth Certificates)

How to Apply

Applications for the Golden Residency can be submitted through Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP). Applicants must:

1. Choose one of the eligible investment pathways.
2. Provide proof of investment, property purchase, bond holding, or employment contribution.
3. Submit supporting documents such as a valid passport, proof of funds, and health insurance.
4. Pay the application fee as set by MoCIIP.

Once approved, residency permits are issued for 10 years and can be renewed if the eligibility criteria continue to be met.

Key Benefits of the Golden Residency

Holders of Oman’s Golden Residency enjoy more than just legal residence. The package comes with practical and lifestyle advantages, including:

• Fast-track airport services for easier travel.
• Permission to employ up to three domestic workers.
• The right to own one property outside integrated tourism complexes, in areas usually restricted for non-Omani ownership.
• Stability and security to plan long-term business operations.
• Access to Oman’s high ranking in the 2024 Quality of Life Index, where it placed fourth globally.

Final Thoughts

Oman’s Golden Residency programme blends investment opportunity with lifestyle benefits, making it one of the most appealing residency-by-investment schemes in the Gulf. For investors and professionals seeking long-term stability, it offers both financial security and a gateway to one of the region’s most forward-looking economies.