Russia, Oman open doors to ordinary passport holders

The governments of Russia and Oman have reached a significant agreement to waive visa requirements for citizens holding ordinary passports, allowing for smoother travel between the two countries.

The agreement was signed in a ceremony attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media. 

This development marks a major step in strengthening bilateral relations and facilitating easier movement for citizens of both nations. 

Under the previous arrangement, Russian citizens could obtain free 14-day visas at the Omani border, but these were non-renewable and could not be converted into other types of visas. With the new agreement, citizens of both countries will be allowed to enter, transit, and exit each other’s territory without the need for a visa. According to the terms of the deal, each country will allow the citizens of the other to stay within its borders for up to 30 days per visit. However, the total length of stay must not exceed 90 days within a calendar year.

This change is expected to greatly simplify travel between the two nations, benefiting both tourism and business exchanges. It is important to note that the visa-free regime will not apply to those intending to move permanently, study, or work in either country. Individuals planning to stay beyond 30 days or who exceed the annual 90-day limit will still need to apply for a visa. The agreement will come into effect 30 days after both countries complete their respective internal procedures and notify each other.

Russia and Oman have maintained diplomatic relations since 1985. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the two countries hold closely aligned or nearly identical positions on all major international issues. The political dialogue between Moscow and Muscat is conducted at the highest level. In 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said held a telephone talk — marking the first direct exchange between the leaders of the two nations.

By Naila Huseynova