Further to our earlier email regarding the Ministry of Labour’s (MOL) directive issued on 4 August 2025 on mandatory professional licensing (Read it here), we would like to share an important update.
Grace Period Until 1 June 2026
MOL has announced a grace period until 1 June 2026 for professions subject to mandatory professional licensing, particularly within the Energy and Minerals Sector. During this period, work permits will continue to be issued or renewed for both licensed and unlicensed workers. From 1 June 2026, work permits will not be issued or renewed for licensed professions without a valid professional license.
Engineering & Accounting Professions
As previously communicated, Engineering and Accounting professions remain subject to mandatory professional licensing, with implementation effective from 1 September 2025. Professionals in these categories are required to complete registration through the relevant sector bodies as part of work permit issuance or renewal. The grace period does not apply for the engineering and accounting professions.
Technical & Vocational Professions
Licensing also applies to selected technical and vocational roles, particularly within the Energy and Minerals Sector (e.g., HSE advisors, equipment operators, welders, technicians, and maintenance roles), with enforcement aligned to the June 2026 deadline.
Key Reminders
- Applies to Omani and expatriate employees
- Applies to new hires and existing employees
- New first time expat hires should acquire the necessary certification before coming to Oman.
- For engineering professions, you can register here https://ose.org.om/how-to-apply/
- Accounting professions to be registered via the Oman Association of Certified Public Accountants (OACPA) platform.
- All other applications are submitted via mol.gov.om
- Licensing will be mandatory before work permit issuance or renewal after the grace period
We recommend that employers factor these requirements into HR planning and visa timelines to avoid operational disruptions.
We will continue to keep you informed of any further updates from the Ministry of Labour.