The Sultanate of Oman has introduced a new framework for acquiring Omani citizenship through Royal Decree No. 17/2025, issued by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. This decree outlines comprehensive eligibility criteria and procedures for foreigners seeking Omani nationality. Here’s everything you need to know.

Key Provisions of the Omani Nationality Law

1. General Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Nationals (Article 17)

A foreigner can apply for Omani citizenship if they meet the following conditions:

  • Continuous Residence: Minimum of 15 years of lawful, continuous residence in Oman. Absences up to 90 days annually do not disrupt this continuity.
  • Arabic Proficiency: Must be fluent in reading and writing Arabic.
  • Good Conduct: Should possess good conduct with no final convictions for felonies or crimes of dishonor/trust.
  • Health Requirements: Must be in good health and free from infectious diseases.
  • Legitimate Income: Should have a legitimate source of income sufficient for personal and dependent needs.
  • Renunciation of Previous Nationality: Must submit a written declaration to renounce current nationality and confirm they hold no other nationality.
  • Citizenship for Minor Children: Minor children will acquire Omani nationality through their father if born or residing in Oman.

2. Special Conditions for Spouses

A. Foreign Wife of an Omani Husband (Article 19)

A foreign woman married to an Omani man may apply if:

  • Marriage Duration: At least 8 years of marriage with continuous residence in Oman.
  • Children: Must have at least one child with the Omani husband.
  • Other Conditions: Fluent in spoken Arabic, good conduct, no criminal record, and renunciation of foreign nationality.
B. Foreign Husband of an Omani Woman (Article 18)

A foreign man married to an Omani woman may apply if:

  • Marriage Duration: At least 10 years of marriage with continuous residence in Oman.
  • Children: Must have at least one child with the Omani wife.
  • Additional Requirements: Must meet criteria similar to Article 17 (language proficiency, good behavior, health, and renunciation of other nationalities).

3. Widowed or Divorced Foreign Women (Articles 20 & 21)

A foreign woman who was married to an Omani citizen can apply for citizenship if:

  • Residency Requirements:
    • At least 6 years of continuous residence in Oman after widowhood.
    • At least 8 years of marriage before divorce.
  • Children: Must have at least one child with the Omani spouse.
  • Other Conditions: Arabic proficiency, good conduct, health clearance, and renunciation of foreign nationality.

4. Citizenship for Minor Children (Article 22)

Minor children of an Omani mother and a foreign father may be granted citizenship if:

  • Custody & Residency:
    • Mother must have custody.
    • 5 years of residence if the mother is widowed or divorced.
    • 10 years of residence if the foreign father is absent or has abandoned the family.
  • Legal Conditions:
    • Good conduct and no criminal record.
    • Written consent from the minor’s guardian (if applicable).
    • Proof of abandonment or absence through a court ruling (if required).

The new Omani Nationality Law (Royal Decree No. 17/2025) provides clearer pathways for foreigners to acquire citizenship while emphasizing cultural integration, good conduct, and loyalty to the Sultanate. This legal update aligns with Oman’s vision of strengthening its national identity while embracing diversity.

Share this article
The link has been copied!