To practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Sultanate of Oman, internationally educated nurses (IENs) must obtain a professional license from the Oman Medical Specialty Board (OMSB). This structured process involves thorough credential verification, successful completion of the national licensing examination, and securing sponsorship from a healthcare employer.

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Phase 1: Eligibility and Credential Verification

This phase ensures your nursing qualifications and professional background meet the standards set by the OMSB.

Confirm Eligibility Requirements

For the Registered Nurse (RN) title, you generally must meet the following:

• Education: Hold a recognized Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. Diploma holders may be eligible for other classifications.
• Work Experience: A minimum of three (3) years of clinical experience post-qualification is typically required for exam eligibility. The experience must be continuous, and any significant gaps may require explanation or additional documentation.
• Professional Status: Possess a valid, active license to practice as an RN in your home country.
• Good Standing: Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing (GSC) from your current licensing authority, confirming no disciplinary action (must be less than six months old).

Initiate Primary Source Verification (DataFlow)

The OMSB mandates Primary Source Verification (PSV) of your core documents through the DataFlow Group.

• Purpose: DataFlow directly contacts your university, licensing body, and previous employers to confirm the authenticity of your degree, license, and experience certificates.
• Process: You must register and pay the fees through the OMSB’s designated portal or the DataFlow website to initiate the process. A Positive DataFlow Report is mandatory for all final stages of licensure.

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Phase 2: The Omani Nursing Examination (OEN)

The national licensing examination assesses your professional competency.

Apply for the OMSB Pearson VUE Exam

Once your documents are submitted for PSV, you can generally apply to sit for the national licensing exam, known as the Omani Examination for Nurses (OEN), which is administered through Pearson VUE.

• Booking: You book your test slot through the Pearson VUE website, using the OMSB’s guidance on their portal (Professional Competence Affairs section).

Pass the OEN Prometric Exam

The OEN is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) that evaluates your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

• Format: Typically consists of 100 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Duration: The exam is approximately 2.5 hours.
• Passing Score: The required passing score for the OEN is generally 60% (60 correct answers).
• Syllabus Focus: The exam covers seven main domains, including Adult Health (30% weightage), Principles of Care (20% weightage), Maternal Health, Child Health, Mental Health, Community Health & Gerontology, and Evidence-Based Practice.
• Attempts: Candidates are typically allowed a maximum of three attempts per calendar year to pass the OEN. If you fail the third attempt, you may need to undertake additional training before reapplying.

Receive the Exam Result

The result is often provided to candidates immediately upon completion of the exam and is emailed within 24 hours.

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Phase 3: Sponsorship and Final Licensure

The final steps integrate your professional qualification with a specific role in Oman’s healthcare sector.

Secure an Employment Offer

With a successful OEN result and a positive DataFlow report, you must secure an employment offer from an Omani healthcare facility (e.g., government or private hospital, clinic). This employer will act as your sponsor and assist with the final steps.

Submit Final Application to OMSB/MOH

Your employer will typically submit the final licensing application to the OMSB (and subsequently to the Ministry of Health – MOH) on your behalf. This submission includes all verified documents, the OEN pass result, and the sponsor letter.

Receive the Professional Practice License

Upon final approval from the OMSB, you will be granted your official OMSB Medical License (Professional Practice License). This license legally authorizes you to commence practice as a Registered Nurse in the Sultanate of Oman.

Maintain Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

To maintain your license and ensure renewal, you must fulfill the requirements for Continuing Medical Education (CME) or Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits as mandated by the OMSB.