Oman Citizenship — How to Get for Foreigners in 2026

Oman is increasingly gaining attention as one of the most attractive investment destinations. However, Omani citizenship has yet to become a major draw for international investors. This is largely due to the restrictions on dual citizenship and the fact that the naturalisation process is available only to a limited group of individuals.

Until recently, Oman’s residence permit programme was closed to foreigners, and property ownership was not an option. However, in 2024, the Sultanate has clearly demonstrated a trend toward greater openness. With the introduction of a residence permit programme, the expansion of zones where foreigners can purchase property, and other legal reforms, the possibility of further easing of regulations no longer seems unrealistic.

This article examines the criteria for obtaining Omani citizenship, the eligibility requirements set by the Sultanate, and the advantages of holding an Omani passport.

How to Apply for Oman Citizenship

Unlike the so-called «golden passport» schemes in Europe, Oman, like many Gulf nations, takes a highly selective approach to granting citizenship.

According to Royal Decree No. 38/2014, Omani citizenship may be granted to:

• children born to Omani citizens;
• orphans born in Oman;
• former Omani citizens who renounced their nationality for another citizenship;
• foreign nationals who have resided in Oman for 15–20 years;
• foreign spouses of Omani citizens after 10 years of marriage;
• foreign nationals granted honorary citizenship by decree of the Sultan.

Ways to Get Oman Citizenship for Expats

Oman does not offer citizenship by investment, regardless of the amount invested. However, there are several other paths to acquiring an Omani passport.

Oman Citizenship by Naturalisation

Despite a trend towards increased openness and investment attraction, naturalisation in Oman remains an option only for those who have spent a significant portion of their lives in the Sultanate.

Requirements for Foreign Residents

1. A minimum of 20 years of continuous residence in Oman. For those married to an Omani national, this period is reduced to 15 years.
2. Fluency in Arabic, including reading and writing skills.
3. A clean criminal record and good standing in the community.
4. Proof of a legal and sufficient income to support oneself and dependents.
5. Proof of renouncing prior citizenship.

Requirements for Foreign Spouses of Omani Citizens

• marriage duration of at least 10 years (15 years for widows or divorcees);
• the couple must have at least one son;
• must reside in Oman;
• must meet reputation and language proficiency requirements.

Foreign investors can benefit from one of the most accessible residency programmes in the Gulf region, which has no minimum investment threshold. Request a selection of properties eligible for Oman’s residency programme.

Submit a request

Honorary Omani Citizenship for Foreign Nationals

In May 2024, under Decree No. 26/2024, the Sultan of Oman granted honorary citizenship to 257 foreign nationals. In November of the previous year, 200 more individuals received the same recognition.

Honorary citizenship is awarded to exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to Oman’s development, whether in the fields of economy, culture, society, business, education, or healthcare.

Steps to Obtain Omani Citizenship

The process of acquiring Omani citizenship is regulated by the Omani Citizenship Law (Royal Decree No. 38/2014) and consists of several stages. Let’s explore them in detail:

1. The citizenship application is submitted to the Ministry of Interior along with a set of required documents, including proof of residence (passport pages), marriage certificates, language proficiency, and financial stability.
2. The Ministry reviews whether the applicant meets all legal and procedural requirements. The Ministry reserves the right to reject applications without providing an explanation.
3. The applicant must demonstrate good conduct by providing a police clearance certificate. Additionally, a medical certificate proving the absence of serious infectious diseases is required.
4. The applicant must formally declare their intention to renounce their current citizenship and provide legal proof of this renunciation.
5. Once approved by the Ministry of Interior, the application is forwarded to the Minister of Interior. The final decision on granting citizenship is made by the Sultan through a royal decree.

Oman Citizenship Requirements

According to Oman’s Ministry of Interior, foreign applicants must submit the following documents:

• copy of passport, valid residence visa, and entry stamp to Oman;
• copy of national ID card;
• copy of valid resident card;
• copy of marriage certificate (if applicable), spouse’s passport, and children’s birth certificates;
• police clearance certificate from Oman;
• police clearance certificate from the applicant’s home country;
• medical certificate proving the absence of infectious diseases;
• bank statement showing monthly income and a valid employment contract;
• embassy-issued certificate confirming the possibility of renouncing current citizenship;
• written declaration of intent to renounce current citizenship.

Oman Citizenship Application Fees

Oman Citizenship Benefits

In addition to a stable economy, low crime rates, and high quality of life, Omani citizens enjoy visa-free travel to over 80 countries worldwide.

One of the significant advantages of Omani citizenship is access to the National Subsidy System (NSS), which provides financial support in two key areas:

1. Fuel subsidies.
2. Electricity and water subsidies (currently only electricity subsidies are active).

The fuel subsidy is available to Omani citizens who own a vehicle and earn less than OMR 950 ($2,470) per month. This allows them to purchase Mogas 91 (M91) fuel at a discounted rate of $0.47 per litre.

The utility subsidy applies to electricity and water bills for Omani citizens with an active utility account.

Electricity Tariffs in Oman

One of the key advantages is access to free public education and healthcare. This is especially important for families with children, as it significantly reduces expenses for schooling and higher education.

Omani citizens have the right to purchase land in the Sultanate. There are also special conditions for citizens that allow them to acquire plots for residential projects at nominal prices.

Unlike foreigners, Omani citizens do not require a local sponsor to conduct business both in Oman and in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Rejection of Citizenship Applications

The Ministry of Interior has the authority to reject citizenship applications without explanation. Its decision is final and cannot be appealed in court.

Each year, Oman grants only 200–400 passports to foreign nationals. Proper preparation and submission of all required documents can significantly reduce the risk of rejection.

The government may refuse citizenship if the applicant is involved in activities or organisations that pose a threat to national security. Additionally, applications from individuals who previously worked for entities conflicting with Oman’s interests may also be denied.

Does Oman Allow Dual Citizenship

According to Article 5 of the Omani Citizenship Law, Omani nationals are not permitted to hold another citizenship, unless explicitly allowed by a royal decree. Applicants must formally renounce their previous nationality before acquiring Omani citizenship.