The Sultanate of Oman’s Embassy in Dhaka recently announced that certain categories of Bangladeshi nationals are exempt from the visa ban that was imposed in October 2023. According to the statement released by the embassy, the exempted categories include family visas, visitation visas for Bangladeshi citizens residing in GCC countries, as well as visas for physicians, engineers, nurses, teachers, accountants, investors, official visas, and high-income tourists. The embassy will process applications from individuals falling under these categories and coordinate with the Royal Oman Police to issue the visa. Applicants must submit attested documentation to verify their eligibility for the requested visa, and processing time is estimated to be one to four weeks.
The embassy also reassured concerned individuals about the ban on work visas, stating that efforts are being made by authorities in both Oman and Bangladesh to lift the ban on work visas as quickly as possible. The statement emphasized that the visa ban is not political in nature but rather a result of the regular review process of the foreign labor market in Oman. It is important to note that Oman and Bangladesh have strong bilateral relations that continue to grow and expand in various fields under the leadership of both governments. The Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Dhaka affirmed the ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation between the two countries.
The decision to exempt certain categories of Bangladeshi nationals from the visa ban reflects the commitment of the Omani authorities to facilitate travel and strengthen ties with Bangladesh. The embassy’s efficient processing of visa applications and coordination with the Royal Oman Police demonstrate their dedication to ensuring a smooth and timely visa issuance process. By exempting specific categories from the visa ban, Oman aims to promote bilateral relations and enhance cooperation in key sectors such as education, healthcare, finance, and tourism.
The statement issued by the embassy also highlighted the apolitical nature of the visa ban, clarifying that it was implemented for technical reasons related to the review process of the foreign labor market in Oman. This transparency underscores the commitment of both countries to maintaining a fair and transparent visa system that serves the interests of all parties involved. The collaborative efforts between Oman and Bangladesh to address the visa ban indicate a shared commitment to resolving challenges through dialogue and cooperation.
The embassy’s efforts to process visa applications in a timely manner and provide clear guidelines for applicants demonstrate their commitment to facilitating travel and promoting bilateral relations between Oman and Bangladesh. By exempting specific categories of Bangladeshi nationals from the visa ban, the Omani authorities are sending a positive signal about their willingness to engage with Bangladesh and promote mutual understanding and cooperation. The ongoing dialogue and coordination between the two countries reflect a shared commitment to overcoming challenges and fostering a positive relationship for the benefit of both nations.