MUSCAT; In a significant development for Pakistan’s overseas workforce, the Government of Oman has approved the issuance of work visas for Pakistani nationals in 11 professional categories. The announcement was made by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, during an exclusive interview with The Arabian Stories.
Ambassador Bokhari described the decision as a major step forward in bilateral labour cooperation, noting that it followed Pakistan’s formal request to ease entry for skilled professionals. “I am pleased to share through your platform that just a few days ago, the Omani government approved opening visas in 11 key professional fields for Pakistanis. These include almost all major skilled occupations,” he said.
The ambassador stressed that this move is part of a broader effort to eventually remove all visa restrictions for Pakistanis seeking employment in Oman. He revealed that discussions are also underway to extend visa facilitation to Pakistani businesspeople, enabling them to explore investment opportunities in the Omani market.
According to official data, Oman has long been a popular destination for Pakistani workers, particularly in construction, engineering, and healthcare sectors. However, in recent years, visa restrictions and labour market nationalisation policies had slowed the inflow of foreign workers. This latest decision marks a potential turnaround in policy, reflecting Muscat’s need for experienced talent in critical sectors to support its Vision 2040 economic diversification plan.
Ambassador Bokhari added that while the process of easing restrictions may take weeks or months, the direction is clear and positive. He also expressed optimism that in the near future, Oman would reopen its labour market to semi-skilled and unskilled Pakistani workers, a move that could substantially boost remittances and further strengthen Pakistan-Oman relations.
