New work rules in Oman: Mandatory certification for workers in engineering and finance

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. 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.