Oman launches new e-visa service for tourists, GCC residents

Oman has launched a new e-visa service as part of efforts to increase the number of international tourists.

Those planning to visit the GCC state can apply online for visas by submitting their applications on a government website (www.evisa.rop.gov.om).

Visitors will then need to fill up the form online and attach the necessary documents as well as pay the application fee by credit card through a Global Payment Gateway that is officially certified by Oman.

All applicants will receive notifications through the emails provided.

In the first phase, the system will be applicable for non-sponsored tourist visas for people from 67 countries as well as GCC residents employed in 116 professions.

The move is particularly hoped to target tourists from key markets such as China, Russia and the US, a statement said.

“The Sultanate’s announcement of the eVisa system will ensure the continuous growth of Oman’s tourism sector in the coming years as this provides not only tourists but also investors, businessmen, researchers and students easier access to visa processing,” said Salim Adi Al Mamari, director general of Tourism Promotion at Oman’s Ministry of Tourism.

“Last year, the number of tourist arrivals reached three million and it is expected to increase to more than four million by 2020,” he added.

The introduction of the e-visa system comes after Oman quadrupled the cost of short stay tourist visas in April this year.

Tourists are now be required to pay OMR20 ($52) for a short stay visa – up from the previous amount of OMR5 ($13).

However, the length of stay for the visa has also been increased from 10 days to a month, with further extensions possible.

Read more: Oman quadruples cost of tourist visas

As part of its wider tourism vision, the sultanate is seeking to boost visitor numbers to 11 million by 2040.

Read: Oman seeks 6,000 more hotel rooms by 2020