Oman Now Lets Expats Start Businesses Post-Termination of Employment

Struggling to stay back in Oman after losing your job? Many expats worry about their next steps after termination. Uncertainty, visa trouble, financial stress – these hit hard. The good news? Oman is making positive changes. Now, skilled expats can legally start their own businesses even after their jobs end. That means a second chance and more control over your future.

These new developments open wide horizons for expat entrepreneurship in Oman, enhancing their financial and professional stability, and contributing to supporting the local economy.

At Jitendra Consulting Group Oman, we help expats like you explore these new doors.

Expats Can Now Start A Business After Job Loss

Oman has recently updated its business regulations to give more freedom to skilled expats. As per the new rule, professionals who lose their jobs can now register businesses under the Foreign Capital Investment Law. This applies even if they’re not currently employed, as long as their contract was properly terminated or they hold a legal transfer pledge (such as a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their previous employer).

This move creates room for expat entrepreneurship in Oman. For the first time, individuals are being encouraged to move from employment to self-employment without leaving the country or breaching visa rules. But this isn’t a blanket change; the law doesn’t apply to domestic workers or unskilled labor roles. So if you’re a skilled expat who’s worked in Oman legally, you now have the legal route to stay and start your own venture. This reflects Oman’s intent to build a diverse, investment-ready ecosystem while still protecting local job priorities.

Conditions That Expats Must Follow Before Starting

Although the new policy supports entrepreneurship, it comes with guidelines. To begin with, expats must prepare a feasibility study, which needs to be approved by licensed service providers recognized by the Development Bank. This step is not just paperwork; it shows the government that your business plan is serious, viable, and can contribute to Oman’s economy.

Another mandatory condition is Omanisation. That means any new business started by a foreign resident must hire at least one Omani citizen within 12 months of company registration. This law officially started on April 1, 2025. Companies failing to follow this rule within the given period can face suspension or cancellation of their commercial registration.

Authorities have given a 30-day grace period beyond the first year. After that, non-compliant firms may not be allowed to renew their license or access online government services. So, while the opportunity is there, it does need planning and awareness.

Why Is Oman Encouraging Expat Startups?

The government wants to retain skilled residents who already understand the country’s business culture. Losing jobs doesn’t mean losing talent. This policy shift is Oman’s way of saying: “If you know how to build something, stay and build here.”

It’s also part of a larger plan to reduce dependence on oil by growing non-oil sectors and foreign investment. By allowing foreign residents to shift into entrepreneurship, Oman not only retains experience but also creates job opportunities for locals. The condition of mandatory local hiring further supports that national goal. This initiative is expected to increase self-employment among expats in Oman. It also brings clarity to the long-standing issue of how foreigners can legally continue to live and work in the country after a job ends.

What Does It Mean For You As An Expat?

This is your chance to take control. Whether you’re in tech, trading, education, or services, the new rules support individuals who want to become business owners after job loss. With fewer barriers and clearer paths, the legal system now welcomes you to make that leap.

And if you’re wondering about your residency? Setting up a business in Oman could allow you to remain in the country on a self-sponsored basis (via an investor visa). That’s a major change for many foreign professionals. Now, business ownership and residency in Oman can go hand-in-hand. For many expats, this new option may be safer than waiting for another job. Instead of relying on a sponsor, you become your own. But do keep in mind, you still need proper documentation, legal registration, and business activity approval.

What Sectors Are Opening Up For Expat Business?

With 100% foreign ownership now permitted in most sectors under the Foreign Capital Investment Law of 2019, there are many areas where expats can invest. Oman’s economic vision is opening up sectors that welcome foreign investment. Think:

• Technology
• Logistics
• Consultancy
• Food Services
• Niche trades like wellness or content development.

The key here is sustainability – businesses that contribute, employ, and align with local market demand. If you’ve always thought about starting your own company, this may be the best time. The environment is not just legal-friendly, but also supportive through government-led investment platforms and local partnerships.

What Jitendra Consulting Group Oman Can Do For You

If you’re thinking of starting a business in Oman after job termination, we can guide you at every step. Jitendra Consulting Group has years of experience in Oman expat business setup. We understand the emotions, risks, and legalities involved. Our team works with professionals, freelancers, and investors who want to move from job loss to ownership. If it’s paperwork or compliance, we’re here to make the process stress-free and straightforward. Our aim is to make sure you not only stay in Oman but succeed here.

Talk to us today. Your next chapter in Oman can start now.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can expats in Oman start a business after losing their jobs?

Yes, under new updates to the Foreign Capital Investment Law, skilled expats can legally start their own businesses after employment termination, provided their contract was properly terminated or they hold a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

What are the key conditions expats must meet to start a business?

Essential conditions include preparing a feasible business study approved by relevant authorities, complying with Omanisation policy by hiring at least one Omani citizen within 12 months of registration, and ensuring proper legal registration and business activity approvals.

What benefits does this new policy offer expats in Oman?

This policy allows expats to remain in Oman on a self-sponsored basis (via an investor visa), reduces barriers to entry for business sectors, and offers them the opportunity to take control of their professional future through entrepreneurship.

What are the promising sectors for foreign investment and entrepreneurship in Oman?

With 100% foreign ownership now permitted, Oman is opening doors to sectors like technology, logistics, consultancy, food services, and niche trades such as wellness and content development.

How can a consultancy like Jitendra Consulting Group assist expats with business setup?

Jitendra Consulting Group offers specialized services for expats in Oman, including company registration assistance, legal and regulatory advice, and ensuring compliance with local laws, making the business setup process smooth and stress-free.