Muscat  – The Ministry of Labour (MoL) has announced a series of amendments to expat work permit regulations designed to simplify employer procedures, reduce costs and improve compliance.

The new measures align work permits with the duration of expatriate workers’ residency in Oman, while maintaining existing rules for domestic worker recruitment to avoid additional expenses for families.

Under the decision, licence fees will be waived for those employing domestic workers to assist persons with disabilities, elderly individuals requiring care, low-income citizens receiving social support and patients in need of home assistance. The ministry said the exemptions aim to ease financial pressure on families and support essential caregiving.

Employers may now upgrade a worker’s job category on an existing licence by paying only the fee difference, without needing a new permit. The ministry said this step enhances labour market flexibility and reduces bureaucracy.

Fee reductions have also been introduced for civil society and humanitarian organisations such as charities, mosques and churches, with costs lowered from RO141 to RO101. Employers meeting prescribed Omanisation rates will receive a 30% discount on fees, while those failing to comply will face doubled charges to reinforce national employment targets.

A maximum fine of RO500 per worker has been set for late renewals to encourage timely regularisation and reduce accumulated penalties. Fee exemptions will apply in specific situations, including worker death, visa change, labour complaints filed after contract expiry or the worker’s departure from Oman.

Refunds or nominal-fee replacements will be available when a licence cannot be used due to failed medical tests, non-approval of visas, repatriation or transfer within 90 days, or administrative cancellation. Delay fines may also be waived in cases involving employer death, company bankruptcy or liquidation, worker imprisonment, or official confiscation of passports.

The ministry described the decision as part of a broader strategy to enhance labour market efficiency, safeguard rights and support vulnerable groups, while ensuring stability and productivity in the Sultanate’s workforce.