The Government of Indian has agreed to a trade agreement with Oman, offering significant concessions to its workers. Indian professionals who want to work in Oman are allowed to work in their companies, but only 50% of the workforce is Indian, instead of 20% at present.
This step is taken to ensure that Indian companies that establish shops do not begin hiring employees from Bangladesh or Pakistan, under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which includes a standstill clause that prevents the 50% level from being diluted. If a concession is offered to SAARC nations, the same benefit will be extended to India.Â
Although there are restrictions on hiring locals in business, officials explained that there are three categories of workers, with more stringent conditions for top-level jobs. The primary focus is on goods and services, especially in Gulf countries such as Oman, where 7 lakh Indian work and annually pay upwards of $2 billion to their families in India.
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The Commerce Department has noted that the quota for Intra-Corporate Transferees has increased. Under this category, visas will be issued for up to four years, as will be the case for contractual service suppliers. Similarly, independent professionals will receive visas for upto 180 days, while business visitors will acquire visas for 90 days.
