Oman has introduced stricter entry requirements for foreign workers by launching a new professional accreditation system. The policy requires expatriates in regulated professions to verify their academic and professional qualifications before entering the country.
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The measures, reported by local media and cited by Gulf News, link entry permits directly to approved credentials. Authorities said the move is aimed at regulating the labour market, preventing certificate fraud, and raising professional standards across key sectors.
Under the new system, foreign workers must complete qualification checks prior to travel. Only candidates whose credentials are verified by accredited sectoral skills units will be granted work practice licences and entry permits.
Officials explained that the accreditation framework connects professional licences with verified qualifications, ensuring that only eligible candidates are allowed to practice regulated professions. Sectors covered include engineering, logistics, accounting, and other specialised fields.
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Zaher bin Abdullah Al Sheikh, Director of the Department of Professional Standards at the Ministry of Labour, said the reforms strengthen oversight and quality control. He added that the system enhances transparency while supporting long-term workforce planning.
The ministry said it has already detected cases involving forged professional classification certificates and unlicensed work practice permits. Authorities warned that using fake documents constitutes a violation of Omani law.
Sanctions for violations include financial penalties, cancellation of licences, deportation, and referral to the courts. Employers who facilitate or fail to prevent such breaches may also face legal consequences.
Officials stressed that responsibility lies with both workers and companies to ensure licences are issued only by authorised bodies. Employers are required to verify the authenticity of all professional documents before recruitment.
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The reforms are part of broader labour market changes aimed at improving professional standards, protecting employers, and supporting workforce nationalisation. Authorities said the new system balances stricter enforcement with the goal of building a more skilled and reliable labour force.