Oman Visa for Maldivian Citizens
Maldivians are eligible for a 14-day visa-free stay in Oman if they meet certain conditions.
They must be residents or have a valid visa for countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Schengen countries, and Japan, or be Gulf Cooperation Council residents with eligible professions.
If Maldivians do not meet the specified rules, opt for an extended stay, or travel for purposes other than tourism, they will need to apply for a visa prior to traveling to the Sultanate.
An Oman visa is an official document allowing Maldivians to be in the country for a specific period.
The process of getting an Oman visa involves submitting an application, providing necessary documentation, such as a passport, and paying the visa fees.
NOTE: A passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining is a necessary document for all Maldivian citizens visiting Oman.
Visa-Free Entry to Oman for Maldivians
Maldivian citizens are entitled for visa-free entry to Oman under specific conditions.
The stay cannot be longer than 14 days, and the purpose needs to be linked to tourism.
Besides, Maldivians need to be residents or have a valid entry visa for one of the following countries:
- The United States of America
- Canada
- Australia
- The United Kingdom
- Japan
- Schengen Agreement countries
Also, they are eligible if they are residents of a GCC country and working in a profession eligible for a resident visa.
Additionally, besides the above requirements, Maldivians must have the following documentation:
- A passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining.
- A confirmed return ticket or onward travel ticket.
- Proof of sufficient financial means to cover their stay, such as bank statements or credit cards.
- Hotel reservation or other proof of accommodation for the duration of their stay.
- Health insurance coverage to support the medical needs.
It is also essential for Maldivian citizens to confirm their eligibility for visa-free entry before traveling to Oman for a smooth experience.
Oman Visas for Maldivian Citizens
Oman offers two broad categories of visas for Maldivians, designed for different purposes of entry.
Each Oman visa type has specific conditions and durations to suit the needs of travelers.
Sponsored Visa
This visa type for Oman requires sponsorship from an individual or a business entity in Oman.
It involves registering with a PKI or identity card and is suited for long-term travel plans or residents. It is commonly used for employment, family reunification, or other extended stays in Oman.
Unsponsored Visa
This option is common for tourists from the Maldives Islands, as it requires an online application by registering via email, and no sponsor is needed.
There are several types of Unsponsored Visas for Maldivians:
- 12B Truck Driver Visa
- Tourist Visit Visa (26E, 26F, 26G, 26H, 26M, or 26N)
- Visit Visa Multi-Entry 1 year (36F or 36M)
Each of these Oman visa types is designed for different periods, ranging from 10 to 30 days, depending on the specific visa and purpose of the visit.
What is more, GCC residents from the Maldivian Islands can get the following visas:
Application Methods for Oman Visas
There are two primary methods of getting Oman visas. Maldivians can choose to apply online through the official eVisa portal, offering a convenient and quick way of submitting and tracking their status.
Alternatively, individuals can visit the nearest Oman Embassy or Consulate to apply in person.
Both methods enable a straightforward process, allowing selection of the option that best suits the travel needs.
Obtaining an Oman eVisa is the most common and efficient method:
- Visit the official website at https://evisa.rop.gov.om/home.
- Register with the email and create an account.
- Complete the form with the personal and travel details.
- Upload the required documents (such as the passport and face photo).
- Cover the fee using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for approval (typically within 4 business days). Then, download and print the Electronic Visa.
For those Maldivian citizens who prefer or are required to submit their Oman visa application through an embassy, this option allows for in-person assistance and direct submission of all necessary documents:
- Visit the nearest Oman diplomatic mission.
- Submit the completed form.
- Provide the required documents.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Wait for notification regarding the visa status.
This flexibility ensures that Maldivian citizens can choose the visa application method that best suits their needs and circumstances.
Whether getting an Oman visa online or in person, both options provide a straightforward process.
Documents Required for an Oman Visa
The documents needed for an Oman visa depend on the visa type, but all Maldivian applicants generally need:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity.
- A recent face photo.
Supporting documents such as hotel bookings (for tourists to confirm their accommodation arrangements during their stay) or a letter of sponsorship (for Sponsored Visas) may be needed as well.
It is essential to verify if all files submitted for an Oman visa are valid and up to date.
Expired or outdated documents may result in delays or rejection of the application.
TIP: Always double-check all requirements and verify that the provided documentation meet the latest guidelines of Oman visas before submission.
Oman Visa Validity and Permitted Stay
The validity and permitted stay duration of an Oman visa depends on the visa type. Maldivians can get the following permits:
- Tourist Visit Visas are valid for 30 days and enable 10 or 30 days of stay in the Sultanate.
- Multiple-Entry Visas must be activated within 30 days of approval and allow 30 days per entry within the validity period of one year.
Some Oman visas are available for residents of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries and allow 5, 7, 28, or 30-day visits to Oman, depending on the visa type and purpose of the visit.
Contact Details for Oman Authorities
It is important to note that there is no Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in the Maldives. However, you may contact the nearest diplomatic mission for assistance, such as the Oman Embassy in India.
At the embassy, you can apply for visas, seek consular assistance, and obtain official documents related to travel or residency.
Additionally, the embassy can provide guidance on legal and administrative procedures for foreign visitors from the Maldives.
- Address: EP 10 &11 Chandragupta Marg, Chankya Puri, New Delhi 21
- Mail: delhi@fm.gov.om
- Phone: (+91) 11–2688 5622
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I extend my Tourist Visit Visa while in Oman?
Tourist Visit Visas can often be extended for an additional 30 days, but you must apply for the extension before the visa expires.
- How long does it take to process an Oman visa?
Typically, Oman visa processing takes 4 business days, but it is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
- Do Maldivians need a visa for Oman?
Maldivians usually need a visa to enter Oman unless they meet certain conditions, such as preparing necessary documents.
- What should I do if my Oman visa application is rejected?
If the visa application is rejected, you should contact the relevant Omani Embassy or Consulate for clarification and consider reapplying with the correct documentation.
- Can I enter Oman multiple times with a single visa?
Only Multiple-Entry Visas allow multiple entries, typically granting 30 days per visit. Single-entry visas to Oman permit one-time entry into the country.
- Can I work on a Tourist Visit Visa as a Maldivian in Oman?
No, working on a Tourist Visit Visa as a Maldivian in Oman is not permitted. Those visas are strictly for leisure and tourism purposes.
Conclusion
Oman offers a variety of visa options designed for different purposes, whether for tourism or business.
For Maldivians, it is important to choose the correct Oman visa type based on the nature of the visit.
Proper documentation and meeting visa requirements will ensure a smooth entry and stay in Oman.
Always verify the latest visa policies and guidelines before a trip to the Sultanate to avoid any complications.
