2 days ago
Oman opens visa, medical examination centre in Manila
Manila, Philippines – Oman Visa and Medical Examination Centre was inaugurated in the Philippines capital Manila on Monday as part of a strategic initiative by the sultanate to streamline and regulate work visa procedures in accordance with employment contracts approved under Omani Labour Law.
The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of H E Sayyid Badr bin Hamad al Busaidi, Foreign Minister, and H E Dr Mahad bin Said Ba'awin, Minister of Labour.
The centre is a comprehensive, one-stop facility, including bio- metric fingerprint registration, medical examinations, document and employment contract attestation, and other services.
Designed to enhance efficiency, protect both workers and employers, and reduce reliance on unregulated intermediaries, the centre enables employers to verify skills and qualifications to ensure they match job requirements.
Additionally, the centre provides services such as issuing Omani phone numbers and opening bank accounts in Oman. It also features a dedicated application information centre and will conduct awareness sessions on workers' rights and obligations. These activities will ensure workers receive the necessary information and support throughout the employment process, facilitating a smooth pre-departure experience, a statement said.
The Manila centre is the first in a series of similar facilities Oman plans to establish in key labour-exporting countries, with additional centres expected to open in the near future. 'This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance labour mobility frameworks and safeguard the rights of workers and employers in accordance with Omani Labour Law.'
The Omani delegation held official talks with the Philippines Department of Migrant Workers, where both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to protecting workers and employers while promoting ethical employment practices. The two sides agreed to cooperate closely to ensure the success of this initiative in line with their mutual objectives.
The event was attended by H E Nasser bin Said al Manwari, Oman's Ambassador to the Philippines.
