Oman opens visa, medical centre in Manila to streamline labour recruitment

Dubai: The Sultanate of Oman has inaugurated a visa and medical examination centre in Manila, as part of ongoing efforts to streamline and regulate work visa procedures as well as to ensure greater protection for both workers and employers, according to a statement from Oman’s Foreign Ministry.

The centre, which was opened under the patronage of Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi, Foreign Minister, and Dr Mahad bin Said bin Ali Baowain, Minister of Labour, will facilitate and regulate the issuance of work visas based on employment contracts officially approved under Omani labour law.

It is designed to serve as a comprehensive, one-stop facility for Filipino workers seeking employment in Oman, offering biometric registration, medical screening, employment contract attestation, and other pre-departure services.

In addition to processing applications, the centre houses a dedicated information desk and conducts orientation sessions to educate prospective workers on their rights and responsibilities. These measures are intended to support a smoother transition for workers and ensure that both employees and employers are fully informed before placement.

The Manila centre is the first of several similar facilities Oman plans to open in key labour-exporting nations. Authorities said the expansion is part of a long-term strategy to ensure lawful and ethical hiring practices while aligning with international labour standards. The initiative underscores Oman’s broader vision of providing secure, high-quality public services and enhancing the credibility and sustainability of its labour market.