Oman has launched flexible validity options for foreign resident cards, offering terms of one, two, or three years. As reported by Gulf News, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has introduced new validity durations and fee structures for expatriate residence cards and Omani personal identity cards.
Foreign residents intending to travel to Oman can now select residence cards valid for one, two, or three years.
This initiative aims to simplify the renewal process and improve convenience. Announced by Lt. Gen. Hassan Bin Mohsin Ali Shraiqi, it allows expatriates to choose the length of their residence cards and pay fees accordingly.
Moreover, the validity of Omani ID cards for citizens has been increased to 10 years.
This card will provide foreign residents with more options for residency permits, enabling them to pick a duration that suits their needs. Meanwhile, citizens will enjoy longer-lasting ID cards.
Everything regarding flexible foreign resident cards
A resident card serves as the primary proof of legal identity for foreigners living in Oman after obtaining a resident visa.
The card includes essential personal, visa, and biometric data and is required for everyday activities like renting a place, setting up utilities, opening a bank account, or registering a mobile phone.
The price for these foreign residence cards will be between 5 to 15 riyals, depending on the chosen duration. A replacement card, in case of loss or damage, will cost 20 riyals.
For Omani citizens, the validity of personal identity cards has been extended to 10 years, matching the national passport. The fee for issuing, renewing, or replacing these ID cards remains unchanged at 10 riyals.
By June 2025, Oman is projected to have around 1.8 million expatriates. Of these, 1.4 million are employed in the private sector, 349,000 are domestic workers, 41,000 work in government, and 6,800 are in the family sector.
These policy changes aim to benefit Oman’s substantial expatriate community by streamlining card renewals. The reforms also demonstrate the government's commitment to modernizing civil status laws and improving public services to align with international standards.
