Oman Visa Requirements for Bangladesh passport

An Oman visa must be obtained by Bangladeshi passport holders who want to cross the border of the Sultanate.

The only way to get a visa to Oman as a Bangladeshi national is by application via embassy or consulate, as currently, Electronic Visas are suspended for tourists.

The process requires preparing the necessary documents (depending on the purpose of the travel) and scheduling an appointment with the diplomatic mission.

Among the documentation in all cases is the passport with a validity of at least 6 months and 2 blank pages.

It's advisable to check all the Oman requirements before going through the official channels, as rules may change at any time.

Types of Oman Visas for Bangladeshi Citizens

Oman offers several types of visas to accommodate different travel purposes. It is crucial to apply for the one that matches your intentions.

Tourist Visa

The Tourist Visa is designed for Bangladeshi individuals visiting Oman for leisure and sightseeing. These permits are typically sponsored by a local tour operator, hotel, or airline.

• Single-Entry Tourist Visa: Allows entering Oman once for a period of up to 10 or 30 days.
• Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: For frequent visitors, this visa allows multiple entries over a specific period, usually one year. However, each stay is limited to a set number of days.

Note that Tourist Visas do not permit paid activities in Oman. In order to be employed in the Sultanate, Bangladeshi passport holders must have an appropriate permit.

Work Visa

A Work Visa is required for anyone intending to have a job in Oman. The employer in Oman starts the visa process as the sponsor.

• Process: The Omani employer must first obtain a labor clearance from the ministry. Once approved, they apply for the visa on their behalf through the Royal Oman Police (ROP).
• Validity: Initially issued for 2 years, the Work Visa is tied to the employment contract and can be renewed.

The sponsor needs to be a local Omani national responsible for the accuracy of the shared information.

The visa applicant should be at least 21 years old; the gender as well as profession must meet the specified conditions.

Business Visa

If you are traveling to Oman for business-related activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring investment opportunities, a Business Visa is necessary.

• Sponsorship: This permit usually requires sponsorship from a company registered in Oman.
• Purpose: It is intended for short-term business engagements and does not permit employment.

Family Visit Visa & Family Joining Visa

These visas are for individuals who wish to visit or live with a family member who is a legal resident in Oman.

• Family Visit Visa: This is a short-term visa for visiting relatives (like parents, siblings, or in-laws) of an expatriate resident in Oman. The resident in Oman acts as the sponsor.
• Family Joining/Residence Visa: This is for the spouse and children (under 21) of an expatriate working in Oman to live with them. The expatriate employee sponsors their family.

The application process for these visas typically requires submitting necessary documents, including proof of relationship and the sponsor's resident status in Oman.

How to Apply for an Oman Visa

The application process for a visa to Oman for Bangladeshi citizens primarily involves a sponsor.

The points listed below should be followed to obtain an Oman visa:

• Step 1: Secure a sponsor
  For most visa types, including Tourist, Work, and Family Visas, you need a sponsor in Oman. This can be a licensed tour company, a hotel, an employer, a national of the Sultanate, or Oman Air.
• Step 2: The sponsor initiates the process
  The Omani sponsor will handle the initial application through the official portal, such as the Royal Oman Police. They will upload the required documents and pay the associated fees online.
• Step 3: Receive the visa copy
  Once the application is processed and approved, the sponsor will receive a visa and will send you a copy. You must print this document, as you will need to present it to the airline at check-in and to immigration officials upon arrival in Oman.
• Step 4: Final preparations in Bangladesh
  Before the departure, make sure you have all the documents in order. In some cases, particularly for Work Visas, you may need to have your educational and professional certificates attested by the relevant authorities in Bangladesh and the Omani Embassy in Dhaka.

Double-check all requirements for a smooth travel experience in Oman and to avoid any last-minute complications.

Documents and Oman Entry Requirements

Having the correct documentation is essential for a successful visa application and smooth entry into Oman as a Bangladeshi national.

While a sponsor will submit most documents, you should have your own set ready.

Essential Documents for an Oman Visa Application

To obtain an Oman visa, the following papers are usually required from Bangladeshi citizens:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of entry into Oman. It should also have at least 2 blank pages.
• Face photographs: Recent color photographs with a white background, meeting the specifications provided by the authorities.
• Visa form: Completed by a sponsor.
• Copy of a return ticket: Provide a clear and valid copy of your confirmed return ticket as proof of your travel plans.
• Copy of sponsor's ID: A copy of the Omani sponsor's national ID card or a resident's card.
• Additional documentation: Depending on the purpose of the trip.

Remember to prepare and check all the files before the submission. In the case of an expired passport or other issues, your Oman visa application will be denied, so keep that in mind.

Always check the Oman visa conditions before the process, as terms and conditions may change.

Entry Requirements upon Arrival in Oman

When you arrive at the airport in Oman, you will need to present the following to the immigration authorities:

• Printed visa: A clear copy of the approved visa.
• Valid passport: The same passport used for the visa application.
• Return or onward ticket: Proof that you intend to leave Oman at the end of the visit.
• Hotel booking confirmation: Proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay.
• Travel insurance: Necessary in the case of emergencies.
• Yellow fever vaccination proof: Bangladeshi must have it if they come from a risk area.

Please note that more documentation may be required, and the final decision regarding entry into Oman rests with the border officers.

Tips for a Smooth Oman Visa Application Process

The process for obtaining an Oman visa may seem complicated for Bangladeshi nationals, as they usually need a sponsor.

Below are several tips that may help to prepare:

• Apply well in advance: Start the visa process at least several weeks before the planned travel dates. This provides time for processing and addresses any potential delays.
• Make sure the sponsor is reliable: Work with a reputable tour operator, hotel, or employer. A knowledgeable sponsor can navigate the system efficiently and avoid common problems.
• Double-check all documents: Before submitting anything to a sponsor, carefully review every document for accuracy and completeness. Mismatched names, incorrect passport numbers, or expired documents are common reasons for rejection.
• Follow photo specifications: Make sure your passport photos meet the exact requirements for size, background color, and facial expression. A non-compliant photo can lead to application delays.
• Keep copies of everything: Maintain digital and physical copies of the passport, visa, and all supporting documents.

By staying organized and attentive to details, you can have a smooth application process for an Oman visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does it take to process an Oman visa?
  Processing time can vary, as it depends on the type of Oman visa. However, the procedure with a sponsor may take several weeks to months, so prepare earlier to obtain the permit on time.
• Can I extend my Tourist Visa while in Oman?
  It is often possible to extend a Tourist Visa. The extension must be done through the ROP before the current visa expires. Overstaying your visa will result in daily fines.
• Can I travel to Oman from Bangladesh on a Visa-on-Arrival?
  Currently, Bangladeshi passport holders are not eligible for a Visa-on-Arrival in Oman. You must obtain a pre-arranged visa through a sponsor before you travel.
• Can I apply for an Electronic Visa to Oman as a Bangladeshi national?
  Currently, Bangladeshi citizens are not eligible for an Electronic Visa to Oman. They usually need to have a sponsor and apply via the embassy or consulate.

Conclusion

Securing an Oman visa for a Bangladeshi passport holder is a straightforward and manageable process when you have the right sponsor and information.

By understanding the different visa types, preparing your documents carefully, and following the correct procedures, you can look forward to your trip without any stress.

It is essential to always check all the official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding Oman visa requirements and procedures.

Regulations can change frequently, and relying on official government websites or trusted embassy communications ensures that you have the correct details for a smooth visa process.