Expat visa fees are set to raise more than OMR15 million (0.02% of GDP) for the state budget, as Royal Oman Police (ROP) introduces a new charge that companies will have to pay. Starting on 1 January 2016, the ROP began charging companies OMR20 to process new visas, or renewals, for all expatriate workers. Earlier, the service was free, with fees only charged for family members of expats. The measure does show how the government’s plan to increase fees for services will generate income, Oman Chamber of Commerce (OCCI) member, Ahmed Al Hooti said. (Times of Oman)