According to reports, the Sultanate of Oman is not issuing and renewing work permits for expatriate workers who are aged 60 and above. It should be noted that this is a reversal of a policy, which was introduced over four years ago. The policy previously allowed the older foreign employees to remain in the private sector, as revealed in a report of The Arabian Stories.
Are Work Permits Not Being Renewed For Expats Over 60 In Oman?
Yes, the Gulf News in its report revealed that the renewals submitted by their employers have been rejected in recent weeks. The report mentions that the senior officials familiar with the matter confirmed permits for expat workers who were over the age of 60 were over and they were currently not being issued. As further revealed in the report, it’s worth mentioning that the change can affect long-serving foreign workers. This could affect those who have continued to work in Oman after reaching the age of 60. So, this would affect those who were expected to remain eligible for further renewal under the rules that were introduced in January 2022.
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What Does It Mean For Expats?
Talking about the policy of January 2022, it removed the age ceiling, which prevented expats from renewing work permits after they turned 60. Companies at the time were repeatedly seeking exemptions for retaining experienced employees who were beyond the age threshold. The change allowed employers greater flexibility for retaining productive and experienced workers.
So, with the latest development reversing the position, employers might face rejection while seeking permits, the report quotes Arabian Stories. As it happens, it mentions how several residents had told the publication that the change had created uncertainty over their employment and residency status.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the Ministry of Labour continues to list work permit renewal services for non-Omani workers on its website. The current service phase does not publicly set out any age threshold.
Make sure to stay tuned to the space for more details regarding the updates relating to renewal of the work fee for those aged 60 and above.
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