Oman Visa for Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Oman for most visit purposes, including tourism and leisure.
However, nationals of Canada are also permitted to travel to Oman visa-free for short trips lasting up to 14 days as long as they fulfill specific criteria (such as having a return ticket).
For stays exceeding 14 days or for multiple entries into Oman, Canadians must apply for a visa before traveling, either online or at the embassy.
NOTE: An Omani visa is an official authorization issued by an immigration office that allows a person to enter, stay in, or leave a country legally.
Oman provides two primary visa categories for Canadian travelers: a Sponsored Visa (requested through a sponsor) and an Unsponsored Visa.
Most Canadian visitors choose the Tourist Visit Visa, which allows spending up to 30 days in Oman, but there are many visa types to suit different purposes.
For a successful application submission, each traveler needs a valid Canadian passport and a recent face picture.
Entry Requirements for Oman
Entering Oman involves meeting specific requirements for a smooth travel experience.
Canadian visitors who don’t have all the necessary documents will not be allowed entry.
Every traveler needs a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned date of arrival in Oman which has blank pages for stamps.
Canadians staying in Oman for longer than 14 days must have an approved Omani visa.
It’s highly recommended to have flight tickets and hotel booking on hand while crossing the borders of Oman if the immigration officers request to present them.
NOTE: Yellow fever vaccination may be required from Canadian citizens who have recently been to a high-risk region.
Oman Sponsored and Unsponsored Visas
Oman offers two different visa options for visitors from Canada to choose from.
An Unsponsored Visa allows Canadian travelers to enter Oman without requiring a local sponsor or guarantor, making it a convenient choice for tourists and short-term visitors.
It typically includes visas related to tourism, family visits, and leisure, which are easy to apply for online.
A Sponsored Visa, on the other hand, is issued with the support of an Omani sponsor, such as an employer, family member, or official organization within Oman.
Sponsored Visas are commonly required for Canadians traveling for work or study and often involve additional documentation.
NOTE: A Tourist Visit Visa (unsponsored) is the preferred choice for many Canadian tourists and allows a visit of up to 30 days.
Application Methods for Oman Visas
Applying for an Oman visa is a straightforward process. Canadian citizens have the flexibility to choose between two convenient methods:
- Online application for an eVisa
To begin, you must visit the Royal Oman Police’s eVisa portal and log in. Create an account using your email address if it’s your first time on the website.
Fill out the visa application form with personal data, including your full name, date of birth, and nationality. Passport details like the number and expiry date are also essential.
Then, prepare and upload a clear copy of your passport and a recent formal photograph of your face.
Check the form for any spelling mistakes, and if it’s ready, submit it for processing – use a credit card to pay the required visa fee online securely.
Once your application is approved, you will receive a notice via email within a few business days.
NOTE: The approved Oman eVisa must be downloaded as a PDF from the official visa website and printed out before the trip.
- Embassy application for a Regular Visa
Alternatively, you can apply for an Omani visa through the embassy or consulate.
While less convenient because it may be slightly time-consuming, this method works well for complex cases. Steps to obtain a visa include:
- Booking an appointment with the immigration office.
- Preparing copies of all the required documents.
- Submitting the form in person and paying the fees.
- Waiting for approval and collecting the travel permit.
Applying for an Oman visa through the diplomatic mission provides personalized assistance and ensures thorough document verification, minimizing errors and delays.
According to the official sources, the Oman visa applications are usually approved in 4 days, but it’s best to complete the process earlier.
Oman Visa Requirements
The paperwork requirements to obtain an Omani visa will vary depending on the visa type chosen.
However, all applicants from Canada must submit a passport with at least 6 months validity and a recent face photograph taken on a white background.
If applying for a 30-day visa to Oman, Canadians should also prepare proof of a hotel reservation and flight tickets for return travel.
To obtain an Oman visa as a GCC resident, it’s essential to upload scans of a GCC visa and an ID.
More information on the subject can be found at the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at www.fm.gov.om.
Oman Visa Validity and Stay
The validity of Oman visas issued to Canadians will depend on the specific type of visa selected but generally varies between one month and one year.
Omani visas can also be issued for single entry (with shorter validity) or multiple visits (with longer validity).
Visitors from Canada traveling with an Unsponsored Visa can spend 10 days or 30 days in Oman:
NOTE: Canadians who want to spend more time in Oman can request a visa extension – they can do it online at the ROP website or at the immigration office.
Avoiding Mistakes in Oman Visa Application
Applying for a visa to Oman can be a simple process if approached carefully, but even the smallest mistakes can lead to delays or even denial.
To minimize the chances of issues, it is essential that Canadians pay close attention to detail and follow the proper procedures:
- Double-check paperwork, making sure every detail matches your official documents.
- Begin your visa application well in advance of your intended travel date.
- Gather the required supporting documents before the visa process.
By paying attention to these common mistakes and preparing early, Canadians can significantly increase their chances of a successful Oman visa application.
In case of questions, it’s best to contact the Omani immigration office for more information.
Contacting Oman Authorities
Canadians can contact the Royal Oman Police Call Center in case they need assistance or have queries about visas by calling the call center:
- Phone number (inside Oman): 800 800 11
- Phone number (outside Oman): +968 22 848 200
- Email: info-omanevisa@rop.gov.om
For additional support, Canadians can also reach out to the Oman Embassy in Washington D.C. (as there is no diplomatic mission in Canada).
The embassy staff can assist with visa inquiries and legalizing documentation. It is recommended to contact the embassy during working hours to arrange a meeting.
FAQ about Omani Visas for Canadians
- Do Canadians need a visa to visit Oman?
Yes, Canadian citizens need a visa for stays in Oman lasting beyond 14 days. However, shorter visits qualify for visa exemptions.
- How long does the Oman visa process take?
According to the Oman Royal Police, to get the visa on time, it’s best to complete the formalities at least 4 business days earlier.
- What happens if I overstay my visa in Oman?
Overstaying can lead to fines, legal action, or future visa restrictions, so leave the country on time.
- Is the Oman Tourist Visa extendable?
Yes, an Oman visa for tourism can be extended for an additional period via the online platform.
- Is a yellow fever vaccination required to enter Oman?
Only if entering Oman from a country where the disease is endemic, or if you’ve recently been to such a region.
- Can I seek employment in Oman on a Tourist Visa?
No. Employment in Oman requires a valid Work Visa, usually arranged by a sponsor.
Conclusion
While traveling to Oman from Canada, it is essential to comply with visa requirements and entry rules for a problem-free trip.
It’s advised to stay informed of any policy updates through the official online platforms, like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Canadians should make sure that they have the correct Omani visa and meet its conditions, including stay duration and departure deadlines.
