Indian embassy expands consular access in Oman

Indian Ambassador to Oman, Prashant Pise, announced expanded visa and consular services across all 11 governorates of the Sultanate through SGIVS Global. This significant expansion aims to improve access for the approximately 700,000 Indians residing in Oman.

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Now the workers can avail of the consular services from the convenience of their homes. Therefore, they don't have to come to Muscat for the renewal of passports or any other needs.

Pise stated that the enhanced network allows Indian workers to access essential services, such as passport renewals and documentation, closer to their residences. "Now the workers can avail of the consular services from the convenience of their homes. Therefore, they don't have to come to Muscat for the renewal of passports or any other needs," he said. The embassy will remain available for those requiring additional assistance.

Addressing concerns about increased passport fees, particularly for domestic workers, the ambassador explained the policy is a protective measure for those in the Emigration Check Required (ECR) category. He also expressed optimism about the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which took effect on June 1, predicting it will deepen trade, investment, and economic cooperation.

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However, the door of the embassy is open for them if they face any other difficulty.

Under the CEPA, India has already seen success in exporting biscuits to Oman, with plans to expand these exports to other Gulf Cooperation Council countries. "Preferential tariff benefits under the India–Oman CEPA have enabled duty-free access for Indian biscuits, improving their competitiveness in the Omani market," noted Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Ambassador Pise highlighted the CEPA as a milestone that will create new opportunities for businesses and investors, reaffirming India's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

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Preferential tariff benefits under the India–Oman CEPA have enabled duty-free access for Indian biscuits, improving their competitiveness in the Omani market.