With the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 season fast approaching, GCC nations are continuing to open doors to football fans and tourists – and Oman has made an official announcement to support travellers to Qatar.

In a statement issued by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) on Thursday [October 27, 2022], it was announced that the country has opened up to visa applicants from Qatar (holders of the Hayya Card).

The press release reads: “The Royal Oman Police announces the opening of application submission for visas to World Cup fans to enter the Sultanate of Oman (holders of Hayya Card) within the efforts to celebrate the hosting of the World Cup in the region, support the State of Qatar’s endeavours to make it a success, and promote Muscat as a major city capable of receiving world cup fans and providing them with a convenient and exceptional experience.”

What is offered to football and World Cup fans?

Oman, a friendly neighbour to Qatar and a vital part of the GCC, offers free multiple-entry visas to World Cup fans in possession of the Hayya Card.

The visa will be valid for 60 days and can be extended twice through the eVisa website. It can also be changed to another category while in the Sultanate of Oman as per applicable rules. Moreover, Hayya Cardholders can be accompanied by first-degree relatives to stay in the Sultanate of Oman.

After acquiring a Hayya Card, the visa can be obtained by submitting an application via the eVisa website (evisa.rop.gov.om), attached with a flight ticket, photograph, passport copy, and confirmation of hotel reservation in the Sultanate of Oman.

Steps to follow to procure the Multiple-Entry Visa to Oman

1) You must be the applicant for the Hayya Card, and the one who booked the travel plans and place of residence (hotel) in Oman.

2) Enter the Oman eVisa website and register yourself as a new user.

3) After registering, log into the eVisa website and choose the ‘visa application‘ option and then the ‘visa without an employer‘ option.

4) Choose your nationality (as determined by your passport). Make sure to indicate if you are a resident of any GCC nation.

5) Finally, choose the ‘Fifa World Cup 2022 Free Visa’ option. All that is left is the processing, and you will be alerted on the status.

Opening of Application for Visa to World Cup Fans#royalimanpolice pic.twitter.com/TFSnVs4Gnv

— شرطة عُمان السلطانية (@RoyalOmanPolice) October 27, 2022