Oman has opened up new long-term opportunities for artists, researchers and creative professionals from around the world with the introduction of a 1, 5 and 10-year cultural visa. Find out who can apply, what benefits this permit provides, how the sponsorship system works and what awaits creators in the country's daily life

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On November 10, 2025, Oman introduced a new cultural visa and residence permit for cultural purposes, which open up long-term opportunities for artists, researchers and creative professionals from around the world. This is one of the key elements of the government’s Oman Vision 2040 program, aimed at developing innovation, creativity and intercultural cooperation.

The new rules allow foreigners to stay in the country for 1, 5 or 10 years, engaging in cultural activities, projects and research. Below is a complete guide for those planning to obtain a permit.

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What is an Oman cultural visa?

The Omani Cultural Visa is a special category of permits for foreigners who come to the country for cultural, artistic or research purposes. Instead of general visa categories, there is now a separate route that recognizes the value of creative activities and simplifies legalization.

With this visa, you can:

- Participate in festivals, exhibitions, residencies;

- Work on artistic or academic projects;

- Collaborate with local universities, galleries, cultural centers;

- Temporarily reside in the country to work on creative or research tasks.

To apply for a visa, you need a sponsor - an accredited Omani institution that will confirm your cultural contribution and the purpose of your stay.

Who can sponsor a cultural visa in Oman?

- Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth

- Public or private universities

- Cultural centers

- Museums and galleries

- Organizers of festivals, exhibitions, creative residencies

The sponsor confirms your activity, provides a letter of support and submits some documents on his behalf.

Who can apply for a cultural visa in Oman?

Oman has left the widest possible list of professions to cover modern creative and cultural spheres. The following can apply:

1. Writers, journalists, poets

Materials about the region, history, socio-cultural aspects of Oman are in great demand.

2. Researchers, scientists, academics

You can cooperate with universities, work in the fields of heritage, anthropology, cultural studies.

3. Cinematographers and digital creators

The Sultanate offers unique locations for filming: deserts, mountains, coasts, historical fortresses.

4. Artists, designers, visual artists

Galleries and art spaces are actively developing, more festivals and exhibition platforms are emerging.

5. Musicians, dancers, performers

Festivals and cultural events provide opportunities for performances and international collaborations.

6. Photographers and documentarians

The country’s architectural and natural diversity makes it ideal for photo projects.

Is it possible to get a cultural visa in Oman with your family?

One of the key advantages of an Oman visa is the ability to bring dependents with you:

- Spouse,

- Children of the first degree of kinship.

A “cultural association visa” with the same validity period is issued for them. The cost is OMR 10 per year.

This is a big advantage compared to the EU and other countries, where family support is often limited.

How much does a cultural visa cost in Oman?

The visa has three available duration options:

- 1 year – cost is 50 OMR;

- 5 years – total amount is 250 OMR;

- 10 years – full package for 500 OMR.

All options are calculated at a fixed rate of 50 OMR for each year of validity.

After approval, the visa must be activated within three months, otherwise it is automatically canceled.

How is the cultural visa in Oman different from other countries?

- Flexible criteria: does not require large income or investments.

- Family support: support is allowed for all durations.

- Professional availability: a wide range of creative and academic fields.

- Simplicity of the procedure: the main thing is to find an accredited sponsor.

- Affordability: low annual rate compared to Europe or the UAE.

Oman is positioned as a country that values ​​cultural contributions as much as economic ones.

How to apply for a cultural visa to Oman: a step-by-step guide

1. Find a sponsor

Choose an institution that matches your activities (university, festival, gallery).

2. Prepare documents

Usually required:

- portfolio / publications / filmography,

- description of your activities in Oman,

- passport,

- confirmation of qualifications.

3. Get a sponsorship letter

The institution confirms your purpose of stay and guarantees the relevance of the project.

4. Apply online

Through the official immigration services of Oman.

5. Enter the country within 3 months

This is necessary to activate the visa or permit.

Living and Working in Oman: Important Realities

- Language

While the official language of Oman is Arabic, English is widely spoken in universities, creative spaces, and large cities. However, basic Arabic helps in everyday situations and communicating with locals.

- Cost of Living

Life in Oman is generally more affordable than in many European creative capitals or some Gulf cities. Rent, groceries, and daily expenses are generally affordable for many professionals and creatives from South Asia.

- Cultural Environment

Oman adheres to traditional values, combining them with world-renowned hospitality and tolerance. It is important to respect local norms regarding dress, behavior, and alcohol consumption - this contributes to a comfortable adaptation.

- Networking Opportunities

The country's creative industry is actively developing, but so far has a chamber format, which creates favorable conditions for deep interaction and exchange of experiences. This atmosphere is suitable for those who seek meaningful artistic or academic contacts without excessive competition.

- Geographical proximity to India

Direct flights from Mumbai, Kochi, Delhi and Hyderabad make travel easy and fast. This allows you to plan short trips, frequent visits or even combine work and stay in two countries.

These aspects give a holistic idea of ​​what to expect from life and professional development in Oman for potential candidates.

Why is the Oman Cultural Visa important?

The Oman Cultural Visa is not just a new bureaucratic category. It is a signal to the world's creators:

"Your work has value, and we are ready to create conditions for it."

It provides: long-term stability, access to cultural institutions, flexible working conditions, the opportunity to legally implement creative projects.

The new Oman Cultural Visa is a modern, affordable and friendly tool for artists, researchers and creative professionals. It opens the door to a country with a rich history, a safe environment, and a growing creative ecosystem.

Oman is actively investing in cultural development – ​​and inviting global creators to join the process.

Need help with a cultural visa, finding a sponsor or preparing documents? Our lawyers provide professional advice, explain all the requirements and accompany your application process. Get expert advice to avoid mistakes and increase your chances of approval.

Reminder! Oman is opening its doors to global investors, offering not only long-term residency, but also full control over the business and tax benefits through the launch of the Golden Visa program. We have already talked about investment levels, tax and business benefits, digital reforms and strategic advantages for investors within the framework of Oman Vision 2040.

Photo – Freepik

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