Oman Sets New Rules for Recruitment Agencies From 2027: No Fees for Workers

Oman's Ministry of Labour has issued new rules for agencies that recruit expatriate workers. Ministerial Decision No. 390/2026 takes effect on 1 January 2027 and includes important protections for workers coming to Oman.

Key protections for workers

• No recruitment fees: agencies may not charge workers any recruitment fees.
• Job offer first: a job offer stating the wage and type of work must exist before a worker is recruited.
• Accommodation and care: agencies must provide suitable accommodation and care while workers are in their custody.
• Approved contracts: only contracts and forms approved by the ministry may be used.
• Complaints: disputes go through the ministry, with set time limits.

Rules for agencies

• Only offices licensed by the Ministry of Labour may recruit, and they must be Omani-owned and managed.
• Each agency must lodge a RO 5,000 financial guarantee with the ministry.
• Recruitment must be completed within 45 days, with a two-year guarantee on the service.

Fines

Agencies breaking the rules face fines, including:

• RO 100 per worker for recruiting domestic workers through unlicensed channels
• RO 50 per contract for not using approved contracts or job offers
• RO 200 per worker for skipping required medical examinations
• RO 500 if a non-Omani is allowed to manage the office

What this means for you

If you are applying for a job in Oman through an agency:

1. Ask for the agency's Ministry of Labour licence and check it.
2. Make sure you receive a written job offer with the salary before you travel.
3. Do not pay recruitment fees. From 2027, charging workers is against the rules.

Even before 2027, paying an agent for a job abroad is risky. Read our guide to spotting fake job offers.