Starting August 1, 2025, engineers working or seeking employment in Oman will be required to obtain a Professional Classification Certificate from the Oman Society of Engineers (OSE) before they can apply for or renew work permits. This landmark policy was announced by Oman’s Ministry of Labour as part of a broader strategy to professionalize the country’s workforce and align with Oman Vision 2040.
According to the Ministry’s official circular, no application will be accepted without the certification, regardless of whether the applicant is newly employed or already working in the country. The process includes validation by the Sector Skills Unit (SSU) for engineering a body tasked with evaluating and endorsing professional standards in the sector.
“From August 1, 2025, no engineer foreign or otherwise will be eligible to work or renew permits without this certification. The deadline is final, and no extensions will be granted,” the Ministry emphasized.
A similar mandate will take effect for finance and accounting professionals on September 1, 2025, targeting roles such as chief financial officers, auditors, cost accountants, and financial controllers. These professionals will also need a corresponding Professional Classification Certificate from the relevant SSU before their work permits can be approved or renewed.
Why This Matters
Previously, a university degree and job offer were sufficient for most expatriates to secure a work permit in Oman. However, the absence of a centralized accreditation system has led to inconsistency in skills, qualifications, and job placement a challenge the new certification aims to address.
According to Oman’s Ministry of Labour, these reforms are part of a long-term effort to:
- Raise professional standards in key sectors
- Ensure skill alignment with job roles
- Promote transparency and accountability in employment processes
- Prioritize the hiring and development of Omani nationals
The certification will be administered through a dedicated online portal, and applicants are urged to start early to avoid complications, especially if their permits are nearing expiration. The process may involve submission of documents, credential reviews, and possibly exams or assessments, depending on the field.
Broader Regional Context
This move reflects a growing regional trend in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to improve workforce regulation and reduce overreliance on expatriates. For example, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation recently rolled out similar professional licensing systems across healthcare and legal professions. The UAE has also expanded mandatory skill testing and certifications in engineering, construction, and finance sectors.
“Oman’s efforts are in line with global best practices for workforce quality and nationalization goals,” said Fatima Al-Nabhani, an HR policy consultant based in Muscat. “This is not just about documentation it’s about ensuring the right people are doing the right jobs, which is critical for long-term national growth.”
What Foreign Professionals Should Do
If you’re an expatriate working in engineering or finance in Oman, here’s what you should do immediately:
- Visit the official OSE and SSU websites to review certification requirements
- Compile and digitize all necessary academic and professional documentation
- Begin the application process early to account for delays or additional verifications
- Stay in communication with your employer’s HR department to coordinate timelines
Non-compliance by the respective deadlines could result in permit denial or loss of legal working status in the country.
Final Thoughts
While the new requirement may pose short-term hurdles for foreign professionals, it is ultimately aimed at enhancing the credibility, productivity, and global competitiveness of Oman’s workforce. As Vision 2040 gathers momentum, policies like these underscore the Sultanate’s commitment to systemic reform and skills-driven development.
