Supreme Committee mandates jabs for some expats

Muscat: Come September, unvaccinated expats will not be eligible for visa renewal.

How many doses?

"The renewal of residency cards for expats in Oman will be conditional on obtaining at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine approved for use in Oman. From October, expats requesting visa renewal must be completely vaccinated," Dr Saif Al Abri said at a Supreme Committee press conference on Thursday.

The vaccination campaign for expats will be ramped up, Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Saidi, Minister of Health, added.

Extension sans fee

In addition, visas issued this year will be extended till the end of the year without an additional fee, Major General Abdullah bin Ali Al Harthi said. 

"Organisations with an expatriate workforce currently outside Onab can extend visas for additional periods through the Royal Oman Police electronic portal," the major added.

Visa requirements

The changes, owing to the pandemic, in requirements and procedures for the procurement of visas will no longer apply, according to the major.