United States Visa RequirementsFor Oman passport holders

Oman is not a participant in the US Visa Waiver Program, and all Omani passport holders must apply for a B1/B2 visa before traveling to the United States for tourism or business. The US Embassy in Muscat processes these applications.

Interview appointment wait times at the US Embassy Muscat are typically 150 to 250 days. Plan your application 9 to 12 months before intended travel.

Omani applicants are assessed on standard B1/B2 criteria: non-immigrant intent, financial sufficiency, and purpose of travel. Those with stable employment, property, or family ties in Oman are in a good position to demonstrate non-immigrant intent. Oman has a reputation for stable governance and its citizens are generally viewed positively at US consular posts.

Oman Air is the national carrier but does not operate nonstop flights to the US. Connections via Gulf hubs are the primary routing option.

Oman Air operates from Muscat (MCT) to major regional and European hubs but does not currently serve the United States nonstop. For US travel, the most practical connections are via Emirates from Dubai (DXB) with nonstop service to New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, and other US cities; Qatar Airways from Doha (DOH) with nonstop US service; and Etihad from Abu Dhabi (AUH) with nonstop US service. British Airways via London, Lufthansa via Frankfurt, and Turkish Airlines via Istanbul are additional options.

The United States uses the US Dollar (USD). Omani bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) work at US merchants, hotels, restaurants, and ATMs. Notify your bank before departure.

The US is moderately to highly expensive compared to Oman. Budget $150 to $250 per day for mid-range city travel. New York, San Francisco, and Boston are among the most expensive US cities.

Tipping is expected and standard in US restaurants at 18% to 20% of the bill. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides also expect tips.

ATMs are widely available across the US. Credit and debit cards are accepted at virtually all merchants.

Apply well in advance. Current wait times of 150 to 250 days require planning nearly a year ahead.

Demonstrate ties to Oman. Bring employment letters, payslips, property documents, or business registration showing you have strong reasons to return to Oman after your US visit.

Connect via Gulf hubs. Oman Air does not currently operate nonstop flights to the United States. The most convenient connections are via Emirates from Dubai (DXB), Qatar Airways from Doha (DOH), and Etihad from Abu Dhabi (AUH).

Administrative processing. Some Gulf applications undergo additional security checks after the interview. Do not book non-refundable travel until the visa is in hand.

B1/B2 validity. Omani nationals are often issued 5 or 10 year multiple-entry B1/B2 visas, offering long-term flexibility once approved.