New work rules in Oman: Certification now mandatory for engineering and finance professionals
TL;DR:
As of August 1, 2025, engineers in
Oman
must hold an
Oman Society of Engineers
(OSE) classification certificate approved by the Sector Skills Unit (SSU) before securing or renewing work permits.
From September 1, 2025, a similar certificate will become mandatory for 20 accounting and finance roles.
The Ministry of Labour is enforcing the changes through its e-services system and will not issue or renew permits without proper credentials.
The aim is to standardize professional qualifications, enhance competency, and bolster
Omanisation goals
.
New Engineering Permit Rules (Effective August 1, 2025)
The Ministry of Labour announced that anyone working or seeking to work as an 'engineer' must first secure a professional classification certificate. This must be issued by the Oman Society of Engineers (OSE) and approved by the Sector Skills Unit.
As of that date, no work permit in engineering will be issued or renewed without it, via the Ministry's online platform.
Mandatory Accounting Qualifications (From September 1, 2025
A similar requirement will apply to 20 specific accounting, finance, and audit roles, including CFOs, external/internal auditors, controllers, cost accountants, and more. These positions will require a Sector Skills Unit Professional Classification Certificate for Accounting, Finance and Auditing for any new or renewed work permit.
The following roles in the accounting and finance sector will require professional certification:
Accounts Technician
Assistant External Auditor
Assistant Internal Auditor
Internal Auditor
External Auditor
Cost Accountant
Credit Analyst
Financial Analyst
Accounts Manager
Tax Manager
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
External Audit Manager
Internal Audit Manager
Senior Internal Audit Manager
Financial Controller
Senior External Audit Manager
Head of Internal Audit Department
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
External Audit Partner
Chief Audit Executive
The Ministry confirmed that no exceptions will be made. Employers and foreign professionals must now apply via the e-services portal and obtain the necessary certifications prior to work permit issuance or renewal. Non-compliance may result in denial of applications or unexecuted renewals.
Policy Context: Skill Standardization & Omanisation
These measures align with wider Omanisation and professional competency goals, increasingly seen in GCC countries seeking to enhance workforce quality.
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Oman's move echoes similar steps in Saudi Arabia and UAE, where accreditation and licenses are required for specialties like engineering, finance, and healthcare.
Why It Matters: Upskilling & Local Workforce Integration
Professional uplift
: Certification ensures that engineers and finance specialists meet national competency benchmarks.
Talent localisation
: By elevating qualification standards, Omani professionals gain competitive advantages, aligning with Vision 2040 goals.
Regulatory consistency
: A structured evaluation process reduces permit fraud, improves sectoral accountability, and sets clear guidelines for employers and workers.
Local engineering firms and audit practices are reportedly checking eligibility lists to prepare affected staff for compliance. No major backlash has surfaced online, though global recruitment agencies note companies are beginning internal skill audits and credential upgrades.
Next Steps & Employer Guidance
Employers and professionals should:
Identify affected roles:
designate engineering and finance positions listed.
Initiate certification:
request classification from OSE/SSU via official portals.
Submit early:
allow time for certification, ideally before July 2025 deadlines.
Monitor e-services:
permit issuance linked directly to certification approval.
Oman's enforcement of professional classification for engineers and accountants is a significant labour-market upgrade. With clear deadlines, digital enforcement, and no exemptions, this signals a strong regulatory shift: credentials matter, and Omanisation remains a national priority. By following these steps, employers can ensure uninterrupted operations and compliance; professionals can secure their roles; and Oman's agenda for a qualified, local talent base gains momentum.
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