Oman allows companies to employ 50% Indians in workforce

NEW DELHI: Govt has managed to get significant concessions for Indian workers and professionals looking to work in Oman, with the Gulf nation allowing companies to employ up to 50% Indians in their workforce, instead of 20% at present.The move is aimed at ensuring that Indian companies that set up shop do not end up hiring workers from Bangladesh or Pakistan, with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) ensuring a standstill, which means that the 50% level cannot be diluted. And, in case a concession is offered to Saarc nations, the same benefit will also be offered to India.While there is a condition to hire locals in businesses, officials explained that there are three categories of workers with more restrictions in top jobs.

The focus is on goods and services are a major area of interest, especially in Gulf countries such as Oman, where seven lakh Indians work and annually remit upwards of $2 billion to their families here.The commerce department said when it comes to movement of professionals, there has been an increase in the quota for Intra-Corporate Transferees. Under this category, visas will be issued for up to four years as will also be the case with contractual service suppliers. Similarly, independent professionals will get visas for up to 180 days, while it will be 90 days for business visitors.