As of 8 September 2026: Oman’s exit permit (khuruj) is not a routine travel document. It is issued only to residents and citizens who have a specific legal or employment reason for needing permission to leave. The process is less publicized than the UAE system, and fees are not standardized.
What is an Oman exit permit?
An Oman exit permit is an official authorization from the Royal Oman Police (ROP) and the Ministry of Interior permitting a named person to leave the country. Unlike the UAE, where many people apply online, Oman’s process is less automated and more discretionary.
The document is required only in specific circumstances. Most visitors and expat workers can leave without one.
When do you need an Oman exit permit?
An exit permit is required for:
- Omani nationals with an active police investigation or criminal charge against them
- Omani nationals subject to a civil court order preventing exit (debt, custody, family matters)
- Non-Omani residents whose employer has filed a “travel ban” — prohibiting departure until employment ends or is formally terminated
Most expat workers, tourists and visitors do not need to apply. If you are unsure, contact the Royal Oman Police immigration office in Muscat.
How much does an Oman exit permit cost?
The Ministry of Interior and Royal Oman Police do not publish a standard fee for online applications. In-person requests at police stations may carry a minimal charge (under OMR 10, approximately USD 26), but this is not advertised. Visa consultancies and labour offices sometimes charge OMR 25–50 (USD 65–130) as a service fee, but this is not the official government cost.
How long does it take?
The ROP does not publish standard processing times. Most requests submitted in person at a police station are resolved within 2–5 working days. Requests through the Oman e-Services portal may take longer if additional documentation is required.
How do you apply for an Oman exit permit?
Oman has two channels: in-person and online, but online options are limited.
In person (recommended for most applicants): Visit the Immigration and Passport Section of the Royal Oman Police headquarters in Muscat, or a regional police station. Bring your passport, Oman residence card (if you have one), and any supporting documents (court order, police clearance letter, employment termination letter). Processing takes 2–5 working days. You will be notified when your permit is ready.
Online (limited): The Oman e-Services portal offers some services, but exit permits are not always available online. Check the portal first; if the service is not listed, you must apply in person.
What happens if you try to leave without permission?
If a travel ban is active against your name and you attempt to depart, you will be stopped at the airport immigration counter. You may face:
- Detention for questioning
- A fine
- Immediate cancellation of your residency visa
- A re-entry ban lasting several years
Employer-filed travel bans are the most common type. These are lifted once your employment ends or you secure a formal release letter from your employer and sponsor.
How do you remove a travel ban in Oman?
To have a travel ban lifted:
- For employment bans: Resign formally from your job, secure a resignation letter (or termination letter if laid off), and bring it to the ROP immigration office. The ban is removed immediately or within 24 hours.
- For criminal or civil bans: Resolve the underlying legal matter (clear the police case, settle the court order) and bring proof to the ROP. This may require a letter from the Public Prosecution office, a court order, or a settlement document.
Oman and neighbouring countries
If you are moving between GCC states, you may need similar documents in other countries:
- UAE exit permit — similar rules, but more online access
- Kuwait expat exit and sponsorship — stricter than Oman; all expats need sponsor approval
- Oman resident card renewal — your legal residence document
- Oman police clearance certificate — required by many overseas employers
What is the short version?
Most people can leave Oman freely. If you are flagged at immigration, the Royal Oman Police has a reason: an active criminal case, a court order, or a travel ban from your employer. Resolve it (end employment formally, settle the court matter, or clear the police case), bring documentation to the ROP, and you can reapply. In-person applications at the police station take 2–5 working days.
