UNB,
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has unveiled significant updates to the validity periods and fee structures for expatriate residence cards and Omani personal identity cards.
These changes aim to enhance flexibility and simplify the renewal process for residents.
Expatriates can now select residence cards valid for one, two, or three years, with fees set at 5, 10, and 15 riyals respectively, according to a decision of ROP.
A replacement fee of 20 riyals will apply for lost or damaged cards.
Besides, the validity of personal identity cards for Omani nationals has been extended to 10 years, matching the validity period of the Omani passport. The fee for issuing, renewing, or replacing Omani ID cards remains at 10 riyals.
The updated regulations also mandate that holders of residence and ID cards must renew their documents within 30 days after expiration to stay compliant with the law.
“These amendments are designed to ease administrative processes and provide residents with flexible options to suit their needs,” the ROP stated.
As of June 2025, Oman hosts around 1.8 million expatriate workers, including 1.4 million in the private sector, 41,000 in government roles, 349,000 domestic workers, and 6,800 in family sectors.
This move is part of Oman’s broader initiative to modernise civil status legislation and enhance public services in accordance with international standards.
