Oman eVisa for GCC Residents - Visa 29A
Simplified visa process for expatriates living in GCC countries. Apply for your Oman eVisa quickly and easily.
What is the Oman eVisa for GCC Residents?
The Oman eVisa for GCC Residents, also known as Visa 29A, is a special electronic visa category designed specifically for expatriates living and working in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This visa type offers a streamlined application process with faster approval times and convenient entry options.
If you're a foreign national residing in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, or Qatar, this visa category provides you with an efficient way to visit Oman for tourism, business, or family purposes.
Key benefits include:
- Faster processing times (2-3 working days)
- Option for visa on arrival at border checkpoints
- Simplified documentation requirements
- Multiple entry options available
- Valid for eligible professionals across 30+ occupations
Eligibility Requirements for GCC Residents
To qualify for the Oman eVisa as a GCC resident, you must meet specific criteria
Valid GCC Residency
Essential requirements:
- Must be a foreign resident of a GCC country (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, or Qatar)
- Hold a valid GCC residency permit for at least 3-6 months from the date of application
- Residency must remain valid throughout your stay in Oman
- Not applicable to GCC nationals (they have visa-free access)
Passport Requirements
Your passport must meet these criteria:
- Valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of entry into Oman
- Contains at least one blank page for entry stamps
- Clear, readable bio-data page without damage
- Not a temporary or emergency travel document
Approved Professions
Working in one of the approved professions (over 30 professions eligible):
- Engineers, doctors, and teachers
- Business professionals and managers
- IT specialists and technicians
- Healthcare workers
Note: Certain professions like housekeepers or private drivers may have exemptions or different requirements.
Additional Criteria
Other important requirements:
- Clean criminal record with no legal issues in GCC countries
- Not on the temporary ban list for entry to Oman
- Comply with Oman's immigration and law requirements
- Have proof of accommodation and travel plans
Visa Options for GCC Residents
Choose between eVisa application or visa on arrival
Option 1: eVisa (Online Application)
The eVisa allows you to apply online through the Royal Oman Police (ROP) eVisa portal before your trip:
- Duration: Valid for up to 30 days stay
- Processing Time: 2-3 working days
- Entry Type: Single or multiple entry options available
- Validity Period: Must be used within the stated timeframe
- Application: Complete online via official portal
Best for: Travelers who prefer to have their visa approved before departure and those planning stays longer than 14 days.
Option 2: Visa on Arrival
GCC residents can obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points without prior application:
- Duration: Valid for 14 days stay
- Processing Time: Instant at the border
- Entry Points: Available at Muscat International Airport and land borders
- Requirements: Valid Emirates ID/GCC residence card and passport
- Fee: 5 OMR (approximately $13 USD)
Best for: Short visits, urgent travel, and those entering via land borders from UAE.
How to Apply for Oman eVisa as a GCC Resident
Follow these simple steps to obtain your Visa 29A
- Visit the Official ROP eVisa Portal
Go to the Royal Oman Police eVisa website and create an account or log in if you already have one. - Select "GCC Resident Visa" Category
Choose the appropriate visa type for GCC residents from the available options. - Fill Out the Application Form
Enter your personal details, residency information, passport data, and travel plans accurately. For guidance, see our application form guide. - Upload Required Documents
Submit clear scans of your passport bio-data page, GCC residence permit, recent passport photo, and proof of accommodation. Check our complete documents checklist. - Pay the Visa Fee
Complete payment using a valid credit/debit card. The system uses secure 256-bit encryption. Learn more about accepted payment methods. - Submit Your Application
Review all information carefully before final submission to avoid common mistakes outlined in our mistakes guide. - Track Application Status
Monitor your application status online using your reference number. Visit our status checking guide for instructions. - Receive and Print Your eVisa
Once approved (typically within 2-3 days), download your eVisa PDF and print it. Follow our printing guidelines.
Required Documents for GCC Resident eVisa
Prepare these documents before starting your application
- Scanned copy of passport bio-data page
- Valid for at least 6 months from entry date
- Must have at least one blank page
- Clear, high-quality scan without shadows or glare
- Copy of valid GCC residence permit/Emirates ID
- Must be valid for at least 3-6 months
- Both front and back sides clearly scanned
- Shows your profession/occupation clearly
- Recent color photograph (taken within 6 months)
- White or light background
- Passport-style format (35mm x 45mm)
- Face clearly visible, neutral expression
- No glasses, hats, or photo filters
For detailed specifications, see our photo requirements guide.
- Hotel reservation confirmation
- OR invitation letter from Omani host
- Must match your travel dates
- Should include full address and contact details
Pro Tips
- Scan all documents in high quality (minimum 300 DPI)
- Save files in PDF or JPEG format
- Ensure file sizes are within the portal's limits (usually 2MB max)
- Double-check that all text is readable before uploading
- Keep digital and printed copies for your records
Processing Time
The GCC Resident eVisa (Visa 29A) typically processes faster than standard tourist visas:
- Standard Processing: 2-3 working days
- Express Processing: 24-72 hours (if available)
- Visa on Arrival: Instant at the border
Important notes:
- Processing times exclude weekends and public holidays
- Applications with errors may experience delays
- It's recommended to apply at least 5-7 days before travel
For more details, visit our processing time guide.
Visa Fees
The fees for GCC Resident eVisa vary based on the visa type and duration:
- 14-day Visa on Arrival: 5 OMR (~$13 USD)
- 30-day Single Entry eVisa: 20 OMR (~$52 USD)
- Multiple Entry eVisa (1 year): 50 OMR (~$130 USD)
Additional costs to consider:
- Service fees (if using third-party platforms)
- Extension fees: 200 QAR per month for extensions
- Border crossing fees (if entering by land from UAE): ~35 AED exit fee
View the complete fee structure on our visa fees page.
Country-Specific Guides for GCC Residents
Tailored information based on your country of residence
UAE Residents
Special considerations for expatriates living in the United Arab Emirates, including land border crossing options and visa on arrival procedures.
- Option for visa on arrival at UAE-Oman borders
- Valid Emirates ID required
- 5 main border crossing points available
- Motor insurance needed for land travel
Bahrain Residents
Information for expatriates living in Bahrain, including entry requirements and visa application procedures.
- Valid Bahrain residence permit required
- eVisa processing: 3-5 working days
- Entry primarily by air via Muscat Airport
- Direct flights available from Bahrain
Saudi Arabia Residents
Guidelines for expatriates residing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia applying for Oman eVisa.
- Valid Iqama (Saudi residence permit) needed
- Land border options available
- eVisa recommended for longer stays
- Multiple entry options for frequent travelers
Qatar & Kuwait Residents
Specific information for residents of Qatar and Kuwait, including application processes and travel options.
- Valid residence permit from Qatar or Kuwait
- Online eVisa application preferred
- Entry mainly by air
- Standard processing: 2-3 working days
Why Choose the GCC Resident eVisa?
Exclusive advantages for GCC residents
Faster Processing
Get your visa approved in just 2-3 working days, faster than standard tourist visas
Visa on Arrival Option
Flexibility to obtain your visa at the border for short 14-day visits
Simplified Documents
Fewer document requirements compared to regular visa applications
Multiple Entry Available
Option for 1-year multiple entry visa for frequent travelers
Visa Validity and Extension Options
Understanding the validity period and extension possibilities for your GCC resident eVisa:
Validity Period
- Visa on Arrival: 14 days from entry date
- 30-day eVisa: Valid for 30 days from issue, allowing 30-day stay
- Multiple Entry eVisa: 1 year validity with max 30 days per visit
Extension Process
GCC resident visas can be extended while in Oman:
- Extension Duration: Additional 60 days possible
- Fee: 200 QAR per month
- Requirements: Valid GCC residency, accommodation proof, financial sufficiency
- Apply at: Immigration Office in Oman before visa expires
For complete details, visit our visa validity guide and extension procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions - GCC Residents
Quick answers to common questions about GCC resident visas
No, the GCC Resident eVisa (Visa 29A) is an unsponsored visa. You do not need a local Omani sponsor to apply. The visa is processed based on your GCC residency status and approved profession.
This makes it one of the most convenient visa options for expatriates living in GCC countries. Learn more about sponsorship requirements.
No, the GCC Resident eVisa is strictly for tourism, business visits, or family visits. It does not permit employment in Oman.
If you wish to work in Oman, you must apply for a proper work visa sponsored by an Omani employer. The tourist eVisa cannot be converted to a work visa while inside Oman.
While over 30 professions are eligible for the GCC resident eVisa, certain professions may be exempt or require alternative visa types:
- Housekeepers and domestic workers
- Private drivers
- Some service industry positions
If you work in one of these professions, you may need to apply for a sponsored tourist visa through an authorized travel agency instead of the online eVisa. Check the official ROP portal for the complete list of eligible professions.
Yes, GCC resident eVisas are valid for entry by air, land, or sea.
Land border crossings from UAE:
- Al Darah Border Post (to Musandam)
- UAE/Oman Dibba Border Post
- Khatmat Milaha Border Post
- Hatta Crossing/Al Wajajah Border Post
- Mezyad Border Post
Requirements for land entry:
- Valid Emirates ID or GCC residence card
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Motor insurance covering Oman (if driving)
- Printed copy of eVisa or obtain visa on arrival
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive Oman eVisa FAQ page for detailed answers.
Important Tips for GCC Residents
Ensure a smooth application and entry process
Do's
- Apply at least 5-7 days before travel for eVisa
- Ensure your GCC residency is valid for minimum 3-6 months
- Carry both printed and digital copies of your eVisa
- Keep your Emirates ID/residence card with you at all times
- Purchase Oman motor insurance if entering by land
- Double-check all information before submitting application
- Save your application reference number for tracking
- Verify your profession is on the approved list
Don'ts
- Don't apply if your residence permit expires within 3 months
- Don't travel without a printed copy of your eVisa
- Don't overstay your visa (fines of ~$26 per day apply)
- Don't attempt to work on a tourist visa
- Don't ignore photo specifications - it's a common rejection reason
- Don't assume visa on arrival is available at all entry points
- Don't forget to purchase motor insurance for land crossings
- Don't submit blurry or unclear document scans
Important Notice
Having a valid eVisa does not guarantee entry into Oman. Final entry is at the discretion of the Royal Oman Police officer at the port of entry. Ensure you comply with all entry requirements and have all necessary supporting documents.
For detailed entry procedures, visit our entry requirements guide.
Ready to Visit Oman?
Apply for your GCC Resident eVisa today and explore the beauty of Oman
Start Your ApplicationSecure process • 2-3 days processing • 24/7 support
Related Resources for GCC Residents
Additional guides to help you with your Oman travel plans
Document Checklist
Complete list of required documents for GCC resident eVisa application
View ChecklistEligible Countries
Check if your nationality qualifies for Oman eVisa and GCC resident visa
Learn More