27 August 2026

Oman halts work permit renewals for foreign nationals aged over 60

Oman’s Ministry of Labour has halted the issuance and renewal of work permits for foreign nationals aged over 60, reversing a policy introduced in January 2022 that removed the age ceiling for private sector foreign employees. Although a formal policy announcement has not yet been published, employers are reportedly experiencing rejections of work permit renewal applications for foreign employees aged over 60. In January 2022, Oman removed the previous age restriction that prevented foreign nationals from renewing work permits after the age of 60. The change was introduced to provide employers with greater flexibility to retain experienced talent, particularly in roles where Omanisation requirements had been met and positions were not reserved for Omani nationals.

A Tax Alert prepared by EY's People Advisory Services, and attached below, provides additional details.

* * * * * * * * * *

Attachment

Full text of Tax Alert

Document ID: 2026-1845