The government of Oman is set to open visas for Bangladeshi nationals in 12 different categories, according to Sirajul Haque, Chairman of Bangladesh Social Club Oman. These categories include family visas, visit visas for Bangladeshi nationals residing in GCC countries, as well as visas for doctors, engineers, nurses, teachers, accountants, investors, and all types of official visas. This news comes after a significant drop in arrivals of Bangladeshi nationals in Oman, with numbers decreasing by over 50% following a ban on visas for Bangladeshi nationals across all categories that was implemented on October 31, 2023.
The decline in Bangladeshi arrivals in Oman was substantial, with numbers plummeting from 28,201 in September to a little over 50% in just a few months. The Royal Oman Police (ROP) issued a circular on October 31, suspending the issuance of visas for Bangladeshi nationals in all categories. The ROP explained that this decision was part of a review of visa policies, which also included suspending the conversion of tourist and visit visas to work visas for all nationalities coming to Oman. The visa ban for Bangladeshi citizens took effect immediately, with no indication of how long it would last.
Following the visa ban, the Bangladesh Embassy in Muscat released a statement reassuring that the ban would be temporary in nature. Prior to the ban, Bangladeshi nationals made up a significant portion of arrivals in Oman, with many seeking employment opportunities in the country. The visa ban had a direct impact on the Bangladeshi community residing in Oman, as it limited their ability to bring family members to join them or to invite visitors from their home country. The reopening of visas for Bangladeshi nationals in various categories will likely come as a relief to many who were impacted by the previous ban.
The decision to open visas for Bangladeshi nationals in Oman reflects a shift in policy that aims to support the Bangladeshi community and maintain positive relations between the two countries. The 12 categories of visas that will be available to Bangladeshi nationals cover a wide range of professions and purposes, from family visits to work opportunities. This move is likely to attract more Bangladeshi nationals to Oman and contribute to the economic and cultural exchange between the two nations.
In conclusion, the announcement of the reopening of visas for Bangladeshi nationals in Oman is a positive development that will benefit both the Bangladeshi community in Oman and the country as a whole. The decision to allow visas for Bangladeshi nationals in 12 different categories demonstrates a commitment to fostering stronger ties between the two nations and supporting the diverse needs of the Bangladeshi community in Oman. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the economy and cultural diversity in Oman, as well as benefiting the Bangladeshi nationals who were previously affected by the visa ban.
