Reside in Mauritius

A one-stop online portal to streamline the procedures

To facilitate the process, the Mauritian authorities have set up the National Electronic Licensing System (NELS), an online platform designed to centralize all permit applications. This digital one-stop portal enables you to submit your files, securely sign your documents using a digital signature, and track the progress of your application directly online.

Each non-citizen is assigned a unique identification number, valid across all administrative procedures, including visa applications, work permits, investor permits, and dependent permits. This system helps shorten processing times, prevents duplicate records, and enhances the transparency of administrative procedures.

Since December 1, 2025, a non-refundable application fee of USD 50 applies to all Occupation Permit and Residence Permit applications.

Good to know:

You can access the NELS platform via the official Economic Development Board (EDB) website. You'll need to create a personal account to start your application and store your documents electronically.

Useful links

Economic Development Board – Work & Live in Mauritius

National Electronic Licensing System (NELS)

Passport & Immigration Office

The student visa in Mauritius

Every year, many young foreigners choose Mauritius for higher education, drawn by the quality of its universities, the international recognition of certain degrees, and an overall pleasant lifestyle.

The student visa is a permit that allows an eligible non-citizen to enter and stay in Mauritius for the purpose of academic studies. It is granted for the duration of the study program and must be renewed annually until completion of the course.

This visa may apply to full-time programs or, in some cases, part-time studies at:

• A higher education institution registered with the Higher Education Commission (HEC);
• A Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution recognized by the Mauritius Qualifications Authority (MQA);
• Or a practical training course that forms an integral part of a higher education program.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for a student visa, applicants must first be officially accepted by a recognized institution and obtain a formal letter of admission specifying the duration and nature of their program, which may include:

• One or more full-time modules over one or two semesters;
• A diploma or certificate lasting at least one academic year;
• An undergraduate program (full-time or part-time);
• A postgraduate course — Master's, MPhil, or PhD — full-time or part-time;
• Or an exchange program lasting up to one year.

Applying for a student visa

The student visa application is submitted by the host institution directly to the Passport & Immigration Office (PIO) in Port Louis.

Students are required to provide all necessary documents and pay their tuition fees to their university, which then forwards the complete application to the PIO.

Once the request is approved, the PIO notifies the university and issues an entry permit, initially valid for three months. The university first emails the student a scanned copy of the entry permit and provides the original document upon the student's arrival in Mauritius.

This three-month provisional visa is then extended for the whole duration of the academic program (minimum one year, renewable annually) after the student completes a medical examination at a Mauritian healthcare facility within one month of arrival.

Important:

It is strongly recommended that you do not travel before obtaining your student visa. The authorities emphasize that a tourist stay cannot be converted into a student visa once in Mauritius.

Required documents

When applying for a student visa, you will need the following documents:

• A duly completed and signed “Application to Enter Mauritius” form.
• A valid passport plus a photocopy of the biometric pages.
• Two recent passport-size photos.
• The original letter of admission from a recognized institution (HEC or MQA).
• Details of the course duration and confirmation from the institution, HEC, or MQA that it is a recognized full-time or part-time program.
• Proof of payment of tuition fees.
• Proof of sufficient financial means to cover tuition and living expenses (for example, a deposit of approximately Rs 150,000 per year in a Mauritian bank account).
• A rental contract or proof of accommodation.
• A medical certificate confirming the absence of contagious diseases (including HIV test, hepatitis B test, and chest X-ray, all performed in Mauritius and submitted to the PIO within one month of arrival).
• A recent certificate of good conduct (police record extract).

Good to know:

Some universities assist their international students directly with the preparation and follow-up of their visa applications, making administrative procedures much easier.

Useful links:

Passport & Immigration Office – Student Visa

University of Mauritius – International Students Visa

Higher Education Commission (HEC)

Internship Visa (Residence Permit for Internship) in Mauritius

This visa is intended for non-citizens wishing to complete a practical internship in Mauritius as part of their higher education studies. It allows international students to gain valuable professional experience within a Mauritian company or institution while residing legally on the island.

It applies exclusively to international students who:

• Wish to undertake a full-time training placement or internship.
• Are enrolled in a higher education institution either abroad or in Mauritius, and can demonstrate that the internship forms an integral part of their academic curriculum or is required for graduation.
• Do not receive a salary in Mauritius (although the host organization may offer a stipend).

Good to know:

Internships in Mauritius are traditionally offered in sectors such as hospitality, banking, textiles, and consulting, examples often cited by Mauritian authorities. However, there is no official or restrictive list of approved sectors.

In practice, other industries may also host interns, provided that:

• The internship is part of an accredited academic or training program.
• The Mauritian host organization is recognized and reputable.
• All general conditions are met, including a maximum duration of six months, full-time engagement, a tripartite agreement, and valid financial and medical documentation.

Applicants are strongly advised to check with both their educational institution and the Passport & Immigration Office (PIO) at the time of application to confirm that their chosen field of activity qualifies for an internship visa.

Obtaining the internship visa

The internship visa is issued for a maximum period of six months and may be extended once, for an additional three months.

The application must be submitted to the Passport & Immigration Office (PIO) either by the host company/institution or by the intern themselves. Processing takes at least three weeks, provided that the application is complete.

Important:

The student must not travel to Mauritius before the visa has been officially approved, as a tourist stay cannot be converted into an internship visa. Incomplete applications or those lacking required documents will not be processed.

Required documents

To apply for an internship visa, you will need the following documents:

• A duly completed and signed “Application to Enter Mauritius” form.
• Two recent passport-sized photos.
• A copy of the identification pages of the passport, valid beyond the intended period of stay.
• A letter of acceptance from the Mauritian host organization (eligible sectors include textiles, banking, hospitality, consulting, and professional institutions).
• An attestation specifying the duration of the internship and confirming that it is a full-time placement (maximum six months).
• A document from the educational institution or home company confirming that the internship is an integral part of the student's curriculum or aims to develop professional skills.
• A tripartite agreement signed by all three parties — the intern, the home institution, and the host organization in Mauritius — bearing official stamps and signatures.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses, such as bank statements for the past six months, a financial support letter from parents or a legal guardian, and a copy of the parent's or guardian's identity document or passport.
• Proof of accommodation in Mauritius, including the address and a copy of the property owner's ID.
• A medical certificate confirming the absence of contagious or infectious diseases, including HIV, Hepatitis B, and a chest X-ray, all carried out in the applicant's country of residence.

Accommodation requirements

Applicants must provide proof of accommodation covering the whole duration of the internship, such as:

• A rental agreement signed by both landlord and tenant.
• A copy of the landlord's ID card.
• A utility bill (CWA or CEB) associated with the address.
• Or a signed authorization letter from the property owner confirming the student's stay.

Renewing the Internship Residence Permit

The residence permit issued for an internship in Mauritius may be renewed once, for a maximum of six additional months. The original documents required for renewal include:

• A motivation letter from the Mauritian host organization justifying the extension.
• A statement from the student's home institution confirming the need for an extended placement.
• A new tripartite agreement signed by all parties (intern, home institution, and host organization) and bearing official stamps.
• Recent bank statements.
• Proof of accommodation in Mauritius, with address details and a copy of the landlord's ID.

Useful links:

Passport & Immigration Office – Residence Permit for Internship

Higher Education Commission (HEC) – Student & Trainee Guide

Residence Permit for Retirees (Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit)

Mauritius has become a top destination for many foreign retirees, thanks to its mild climate, political stability, accessible healthcare, and overall quality of life. To enjoy a long and peaceful retirement under the Mauritian sun, retirees must apply for a retirement residence permit, officially known as the Retired Non-Citizen Permit.

Updated conditions

Under the new conditions introduced in 2025, applicants for the Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit must:

• Be non-citizens of Mauritius aged 50 or over.
• Have a regular income or sufficient funds to transfer to a Mauritian bank account — at least USD 2,000 per month or USD 24,000 per year to maintain the permit.
• Transfer the initial amount within a set timeframe after the permit is issued and provide certified bank statements each year to confirm ongoing transfers.

Good to know:

Applicants become eligible to apply for a 20-year Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) after holding the Retired Non-Citizen Permit for five consecutive years, provided they have transferred at least USD 200,000 in total (or the equivalent in convertible currency) during that period.

Required documents

Applicants must submit the following:

• A duly completed and signed official application form.
• A valid passport.
• Proof of fund transfers (bank statements or transfer certificates).
• A letter confirming the opening of a bank account in Mauritius.
• A rental agreement or other proof of accommodation.
• A recent medical certificate.
• A certificate of good conduct (recent police record).

Good to know:

Holders of a Retired Non-Citizen Permit may apply for a Dependant Permit for their spouse and dependent children. They are also allowed to rent or purchase property in Mauritius, subject to the conditions set out in Mauritian law.

Residence Options for Retirees: Temporary and Permanent Permits

1. Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit

• Initial duration: 10 years.
• Renewal: After 10 years, the permit can be renewed provided all legal conditions are still met (age, fund transfers, and status).

This permit is a medium-term option, ideal for retirees who wish to live in Mauritius without seeking immediate permanent residency. It does not, however, grant indefinite residence.

2. Permanent Residence Permit (PRP)

• Duration: 20 years, renewable for another 20 years.
• Eligibility: A retiree may apply for the PRP after residing in Mauritius for at least five years under the Retired Non-Citizen Permit, provided all obligations, including the annual fund transfer, have been fulfilled.

The PRP is a more advanced and stable status, offering long-term residency rights often sought by expatriates who wish to make Mauritius their permanent home.

Good to know:

The 10-year Retired Non-Citizen Permit serves as the first step for foreign retirees settling in Mauritius. The 20-year Permanent Residence Permit becomes available after five years of continuous residence, offering greater stability and long-term security. Even after obtaining the PRP, the State retains the right to monitor compliance, particularly regarding financial and residency obligations.

Documents for PRP Application (Retirees)

• An official residence application form for retired non-citizens.
• A valid passport.
• Certified bank statements showing the required fund transfers.
• Proof of a Mauritian bank account.
• Proof of accommodation (rental contract, property deed, or official housing certificate).
• A recent medical certificate.
• A certificate of good conduct.
• Proof of guaranteed income or sufficient funds.

Important

Proof of accommodation is mandatory. This may take the form of a rental contract, a property ownership certificate, or an official housing attestation. The residence permit will not be issued if long-term accommodation cannot be guaranteed for the permit's full duration.

The Occupation Permit (OP) in Mauritius

The Occupation Permit is the primary residence and work authorization for foreigners wishing to establish themselves in Mauritius. It is issued for an initial period of up to 10 years (depending on the category and employment contract) and is divided into three main profiles: Investor, Professional, and Self-employed.

The Investor Permit (Create or Manage a Company)

This permit is designed for entrepreneurs who wish to create or invest in a company in Mauritius. Since 2025, the Investor Permit offers two options:

1. Investor Permit – USD 50,000

• Minimum investment: USD 50,000
• Turnover requirements: Rs 1.5 million in the first year, and Rs 20 million over five years.
• Ideal for established or ambitious business projects.

2. Investor Permit – USD 100,000

• Minimum investment: USD 100,000
• Turnover requirements: Rs 1 million in the first year, and Rs 15 million over five years.
• More flexible in terms of performance, ideal for startups and gradual-growth projects.

For both options:

• Valid for 10 years, renewable.
• Family reunification allowed.
• Freedom to work within one's own company.

Both options allow investors to create a company in Mauritius, become its shareholder and director, and obtain residency. The investor can also bring their spouse and dependents under a Dependant Permit.

To apply, you will need the following documents:

• The official OP application form.
• A valid passport.
• A detailed business plan.
• Bank certificates proving the transfer of funds (USD 50,000 or USD 100,000, depending on the chosen option).
• A Business Registration Certificate.
• A commercial lease or proof of business address.
• A medical certificate.
• A certificate of good conduct (police record).

The Professional Permit (Occupation Permit – Professional / Expert Pass)

The Occupation Permit (OP) also applies to foreigners hired by a Mauritian company. It allows them to work legally in Mauritius while obtaining residency at the same time.

The permit is generally valid for three years, renewable thereafter. It is more flexible than a standard Work Permit as it allows the holder's family to join them under certain conditions through Dependant Permits.

The Occupation Permit – Professional now includes two salary-based categories:

• ProPass: minimum salary of Rs 30,000 per month (around USD 662).
• Expert Pass: for highly qualified professionals earning at least Rs 250,000 per month (around USD 5,517).

The permit is granted for the duration of the employment contract or up to 10 years, whichever is shorter. For temporary assignments, a short-term permit is available for up to 9 months, with one possible 3-month extension.

To apply, you will need the following documents:

• An official application form and employment contract.
• Diplomas and proof of professional experience.
• A valid passport.
• A medical certificate and required tests.
• A police certificate.
• Proof of proposed salary (≥ Rs 30,000 or Rs 250,000).

The application is submitted by the employer to the Economic Development Board (EDB) via the online platform. However, while the employer initiates the process, the employee must still provide their own supporting documents (passport, diplomas, medical certificate, etc.).

Important:

Before applying, make sure you hold the necessary professional licenses or registrations required in your sector (healthcare, engineering, finance, etc.) and that you have obtained approval from relevant authorities (professional councils, Bank of Mauritius, etc.). Without these, the application may be rejected.

If you change employers or switch categories (e.g., from ProPass to Self-Employed), you must provide a termination letter from your previous status and, where applicable, a letter of no objection or written consent from your former employer.

Good to know:

After three years under an OP Professional, if your average monthly salary reaches at least Rs 150,000, you may apply for a Permanent Residence Permit valid for 20 years.

Dependant Permit for family members

The Dependant Permit is available to immediate family members of a valid residence permit holder in Mauritius — namely the spouse or common-law partner, children (son or daughter), and parents.

The applicant must be attached to a person holding a valid residence permit, such as an Occupation Permit (Professional, Investor, or Self-Employed) or another residence type (e.g., Retired Non-Citizen Permit).

Family ties must be proven through official civil status documents (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.). The complete application must be submitted to the Economic Development Board (EDB).

The Self-Employed Occupation Permit (OP)

For several years, Mauritius has attracted entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors eager to develop their projects in a dynamic, internationally oriented environment. The country offers a variety of business permits, tailored to the nature and scale of the intended activity.

The Self-Employed Permit is particularly suited to freelancers, consultants, coaches, therapists, creatives, and solo entrepreneurs. It allows you to work independently under your own name, registered with a Business Registration Number, while legally residing in Mauritius.

Beyond the right to work independently, this permit allows you to live on the island with your family (via a Dependant Permit) and to open a local business bank account.

Since the 2025 Finance Act, the financial requirements have been updated as follows:

• Initial investment: minimum USD 50,000, to be transferred to a Mauritian business account within 4 weeks of obtaining the permit.
• Two letters of intent from prospective clients (local or international).
• Turnover requirement: at least Rs 750,000 in the first year and a cumulative Rs 6 million over five years.
• Business activity must be carried out exclusively as a self-employed individual, registered under the Companies Act 2002.

The permit is now valid for five years, renewable if all conditions are met. After three years, a self-employed person with an average annual turnover of Rs 3 million may apply for a 20-year Permanent Residence Permit.

Required documents:

• A completed OP application form.
• A valid passport and ID photos.
• A business plan.
• Proof of funds transfer (USD 50,000).
• Letters of intent from clients.
• A medical certificate and required tests.
• A certificate of good conduct (police record).
• Proof of accommodation.

Useful links:

Residency.mu – Occupation Permit (Investor, Professional, Self-Employed)

EDB – OP Guidelines

Residency.mu – Self-Employed Entrepreneurs

Economic Development Board – Work & Live in Mauritius

Young Professional Occupation Permit (YPOP)

Reserved for international students who have graduated in Mauritius, the YPOP helps facilitate the transition from academic life to a first professional experience. It allows graduates to remain on the island and take up a position directly related to their field of study.

International students who have obtained at least a Bachelor's degree (or an equivalent professional qualification) from a higher education institution recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) are eligible to apply for a YPOP.

Duration and renewal

Since the Finance Act 2025, the YPOP is issued for a maximum duration of two years (previously three years) and is non-renewable. At the end of this period, if the employer wishes to retain the employee, they may submit a new application under the Occupation Permit – Professional category.

Eligibility criteria

• You must hold a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification) from an institution recognized by the HEC, or an internationally recognized professional certification of equivalent level.
• The application must be submitted within six months of the publication of exam results, unless the applicant already holds a YPOP and is changing employer, in which case this time limit does not apply.
• Minimum monthly salary: Rs 25,000 (approximately USD 522).

Required documents:

• An employment contract in Mauritius, specifying the job description and duration.
• A recognized diploma/degree or equivalent professional certification.
• A valid passport.
• A recent medical certificate.
• A certificate of good conduct (police record).
• Proof of proposed salary (≥ Rs 25,000).
• Any additional documents required on the official list (employer's letter, proof of results, etc.).

Useful links:

Residency.mu – Young Professional Occupation Permit (YPOP)

Guideline – Young Professional OP (PDF)

Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) in Mauritius

The Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) allows foreign nationals to settle in Mauritius for up to 20 years and is renewable. This permit is open to investors, retirees, professionals, self-employed individuals, and their dependents, provided they meet the required financial and residency conditions under the new provisions of the Finance Act 2025.

General conditions by category

1. For Retirees (Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit)

The Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit allows a foreign national to live in Mauritius without engaging in any local paid employment. Since 2025, the conditions have been revised as follows:

• The residence permit for retirees is now issued for 5 years (previously 10 years).

To qualify for the 20-year Permanent Residence Permit, the applicant must:

1. Have lived in Mauritius for at least five consecutive years under a Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit;
2. Have transferred a cumulative minimum of USD 200,000 (or equivalent in another convertible currency) into a Mauritian bank account over those five years;
3. Have spent at least 183 days per year physically residing in Mauritius.

Before the Finance Act 2025, retirees were eligible for permanent residence after transferring just USD 54,000 over three years. The new threshold of USD 200,000 over five years signals the government's intent to strengthen the economic integration of retirees on the island.

Good to know:

This permit is especially popular among European and South African retirees, drawn by Mauritius's favorable tax regime and high quality of life.

2. For professionals (Occupation Permit – Professional)

To qualify under this category, the applicant must:

• Have held an Occupation Permit (Professional) for five consecutive years.
• Earned a minimum basic monthly salary of Rs 400,000 (around USD 8,838) during each of those five years.

Previously, applicants were eligible with a salary of Rs 150,000 per month for three years. The new rules both extend the required duration and raise the income threshold to Rs 400,000, favoring high-value professionals and senior talent.

3. For self-employed professionals (Occupation Permit – Self-Employed)

Applicants must:

• Hold an Occupation Permit (Self-Employed) for five consecutive years.
• Generate a minimum annual turnover of Rs 3 million for each of those five years.

4. For investors (Occupation Permit – Investor)

Applicants in this category must:

• Hold an Occupation Permit (Investor) for five consecutive years.
• Generate a minimum annual turnover of Rs 15 million during each of those years, or demonstrate a cumulative turnover of Rs 75 million over five years.

5. For property investors

Foreign nationals who invest at least USD 375,000 in a residential property under the IRS, RES, PDS, or Smart City Scheme are eligible for a 20-year Permanent Residence Permit. This permit remains valid as long as the applicant retains ownership of the property.

Required documents for PRP:

• A completed and signed PRP application form.
• A valid passport and copies of the identification pages.
• Proof of holding an Occupation Permit or Retired Non-Citizen Permit for the required duration.
• Bank statements or official certificates showing the required fund transfers, income, or business turnover depending on the category.
• Proof of investment, if applicable.
• A recent medical certificate, including tests for HIV, Hepatitis B, and a chest X-ray.
• A certificate of good conduct (police record).
• Proof of accommodation in Mauritius (rental agreement or property deed).

Useful links:

Residency.mu – Retired Non-Citizen +50 years Residency in Mauritius

Economic Development Board – Permanent Residence Permit in Mauritius

Passport & Immigration Office – Residence Permits

The Work Permit in Mauritius

The Work Permit is an official document issued by the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment that authorizes a foreign national to hold a specific position within a Mauritian company.

Unlike the Occupation Permit, which is managed by the Economic Development Board (EDB) and combines both work and residence rights, the Work Permit only covers the right to work. It mainly applies to foreign employees hired in sectors facing a shortage of local labor or specialized skills.

Applications are processed through the online portal workpermit.mu, which allows employers to submit requests, track progress, and renew permits remotely.

Importantly, the Work Permit application must always be submitted by the employer, never by the employee. Once the application is filed online, an authorized company representative must appear in person at the Ministry within two weeks to sign the application and verify original documents.

Conditions for obtaining a Work Permit

Work Permits are issued under specific criteria set by the Non-Citizens (Employment Restriction) Act of 1973 and the latest ministerial guidelines. These ensure that the job offered cannot be filled by a Mauritian citizen and that it meets local employment standards.

Here are the key requirements:

• The applicant's passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of submission.
• The Mauritian company must provide a Certificate of Incorporation proving official registration with the Registrar of Companies.
• The candidate must submit a valid employment contract. If the salary is Rs 50,000 or less per month, the contract must be endorsed by the Ministry. For higher salaries, documentary proof of remuneration is required.
• The employer must justify the need to recruit a foreign worker by demonstrating a lack of available local talent.
• The employee's accommodation must be declared. In most cases, a Lodging Accommodation Permit (LAP) valid for three months is required.
• Before arriving in Mauritius, the worker must obtain a Provisional Health Clearance from the Ministry of Health.
• A Final Health Clearance must then be secured after arrival. If this final validation is not granted, the Work Permit is automatically canceled.

Validity and renewal

The Work Permit is generally issued for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of four consecutive years. After this period, a renewal request may be submitted, provided all requirements and deadlines are met. The Ministry recommends filing for renewal at least two months before the permit's expiry date.

Any changes in employment conditions, including job role, employer, or salary, must be reported and approved by the Ministry.

Important:

A foreign worker may only perform the duties listed on the Work Permit and cannot change employers without prior authorization. In the event of contract termination, the permit becomes immediately invalid, and the employee must leave Mauritius unless a new permit is granted.

Processing times and administrative requirements

Before submitting a full application, some companies choose to apply for a Permission in Principle (PIP), which is a preliminary authorization to hire a non-citizen. Once granted, the employer has nine months to file the final Work Permit application.

Administrative fees must be paid within 20 days of receiving the Ministry's notification. Failure to do so results in automatic cancellation of the application.

Incomplete, incorrect, or non-compliant documents can cause delays or outright rejection. Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the case and the industry sector, but the full procedure typically takes four to eight weeks.

Cancellation, revocation, and non-compliance

The Ministry of Labour may cancel or revoke a Work Permit under several circumstances:

• The foreign worker fails to enter Mauritius within the specified timeframe.
• The worker leaves Mauritius before the end of the contract without formal notice.
• The employment contract is terminated.
• The worker fails to obtain the Final Health Clearance.
• The residence authorization linked to the job is not granted.

In such cases, the employer must notify the Ministry to avoid breaching local regulations. Failure to comply may result in penalties, including restrictions on future hiring of foreign nationals.

Useful links:

Portail e-Work Permit (workpermit.mu)

Ministry of Labour – Work Permit Application