Oman has introduced a significant policy change extending the validity of expatriate residency cards from three years to 10 years, marking one of the longest residency durations in the Gulf region.
The amendment, issued by Lieutenant General Hassan bin Mohsin Al Shuraiqi, Inspector General of Police and Customs, updates the executive regulations of the Civil Status Law, according to Atheer newspaper.
Under the revised rule, residents are now required to renew their identification cards within 30 days after expiration. The fees remain standardized at five Omani rials per year for issuance and renewal, while a replacement for lost or damaged cards will cost 20 rials.
Previously, expatriate cards were valid for only one, two, or three years under a decision implemented in August 2024.
