Iranian, Russian and Chinese nationals now eligible for unsponsored visas-on-arrival

IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? Oman has added Iran, Russia and China to the list of countries whose citizens are eligible for nonsponsored tourist e-visas.

What does the change mean? Nationals of Iran, Russia and China no longer need to hold a valid visa or resident permit from the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom or a Schengen Area country to be eligible for a nonsponsored tourist e-visa.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: Tourist e-visas.
• Who is affected: Nationals of Iran, Russia and China.
• Impact on processing times: Eligible nationals may apply for an e-visa, which saves time, without needing a valid visa or resident permit from the U.S., Canada, Australia, the U.K. or a Schengen Area country.
• Business impact: The business impact is minimal, as the e-visas are for tourism only.

Background: In October, Oman added 25 countries to the list of those whose citizens are eligible for nonsponsored tourist e-visas if they hold a valid visa or resident permit from the U.S., Canada, Australia, the U.K. or a Schengen Area country. Additionally, their passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the application date and they must have a round-trip ticket and confirmed hotel reservations in Oman. Spouses and children of eligible applicants may also apply for the e-visa. E-visas are valid for one month.

BAL Analysis: Lifting the requirement for nationals of Iran, Russia and China to have a valid visa or resident permit from the U.S., Canada, Australia, the U.K. or a Schengen Area country will make it easier for nationals from those countries to travel to Oman for short-term tourism. Business travelers are reminded that tourist e-visas cannot be used for conducting business or work activities.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Oman. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

Copyright © 2018 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.