Understanding Mauritius Occupation & Residence Permits (2026 Guide)

Updated following the 2026–2027 National Budget (delivered 19 June 2026). The permit requirements below reflect the latest budget announcements. Figures and effective dates are subject to the final regulations and should be confirmed with the Economic Development Board (EDB) before you act.

Getting to Know the Mauritius Permit Options

Mauritius operates under two primary permit types, each designed for different profiles and objectives:

• Occupation Permit (OP) – for foreign nationals who wish to work, invest, or operate a business in Mauritius

• Residence Permit (RP) – for retirees, qualifying property buyers, and dependents of permit holders

Each permit type offers multiple subcategories, allowing applicants to choose the option best aligned with their lifestyle or professional goals.

1. The Occupation Permit (OP)

The Occupation Permit is a combined work and residence permit, allowing foreign nationals to live and work in Mauritius legally for a defined period. It is issued under three main categories: Investor, Self-Employed, and Professional.

Investor Occupation Permit

The Investor OP is designed for individuals establishing or investing in a Mauritian company where they act as shareholder and director.

Following the 2026–2027 National Budget, the Investor Occupation Permit requires:

• Initial investment of USD 100,000

• Minimum turnover of MUR 5 million from Year 3

• Minimum turnover of MUR 8 million from Year 5 (for permit renewal)

Permit validity:

• Issued for 10 years

• Renewable, subject to meeting turnover requirements

This option is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs seeking a stable base for regional or international expansion.

Self-Employed Occupation Permit

The Self-Employed OP is intended for one-person businesses operating in the services sector.

Key requirements:

• Initial transfer of USD 50,000 into a local bank account

• Minimum annual income of MUR 2 million from Year 3

• Minimum annual income of MUR 3 million from Year 5 (for permit renewal)

Permit validity:

• Issued for 10 years, renewable

This category is ideal for consultants, freelancers, and independent professionals offering services from Mauritius.

Professional Occupation Permit

The Professional OP applies to foreign nationals employed by a Mauritian-registered company under a formal contract of employment.

Key criteria:

• Minimum monthly salary of MUR 50,000 (now applied consistently across all sectors)

• Relevant qualifications, skills, and experience for the role

• Employment contract with a Mauritian company

Permit validity:

• Issued for the duration of the employment contract

• Valid for up to 10 years, renewable

This permit is popular among skilled professionals relocating for career opportunities in finance, IT, hospitality, engineering, and management.

2. Residence Permits (RP)

Residence Permits allow foreign nationals to live in Mauritius without engaging in employment, unless otherwise exempted.

Residence Permit for Retired Non-Citizens

This permit is designed for individuals aged 50 years and above who wish to retire in Mauritius.

Eligibility requirements include:

• Minimum age of 50

• Proof of either:

  • USD 24,000 in available funds, or

  • A guaranteed monthly income of USD 2,000

• Commitment to transfer USD 24,000 per year (or USD 2,000 monthly) into a Mauritian bank account

Permit validity:

• Issued for 10 years, renewable

Retired permit holders may hold shares in a Mauritian company, provided they do not receive a salary.

Golden Visa (Strategic-Sector Investors)

Introduced in the 2026–2027 Budget, the Golden Visa targets higher-net-worth investors in Mauritius’s priority growth sectors.

• Minimum investment of USD 1 million within the first 12 months, in an approved strategic sector — FinTech, Global Treasury Services, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, or Renewable Energy

• Grants a Residence Permit for an initial period of up to two years, with the option to apply for a Permanent Residence Permit thereafter

Residence Permit Through Property Acquisition

Foreign nationals may also qualify for residency by purchasing property under approved real estate schemes, including:

• Property Development Scheme (PDS)

• Real Estate Scheme (RES)

• Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)

• Ground +2 (G+2) Apartments

Key requirements:

• Minimum property purchase price of USD 375,000

• Residence Permit remains valid as long as the property is owned

Holders under this category are exempt from holding a separate Occupation Permit.

3. Permanent Residence Permit (PRP)

The Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) is a 20-year residency option available to holders of Occupation or Residence Permits who meet specific long-term criteria.

Eligibility varies by permit category but generally requires:

• Holding an OP or RP for at least 5 consecutive years

• Meeting income, turnover, or fund transfer thresholds during that period

The PRP offers long-term security and stability for individuals planning to make Mauritius their permanent home.

How APTEC Helps You Navigate the Mauritius Permit System

Understanding permit options is only the first step. Successfully applying requires accurate documentation, banking coordination, compliance checks, and direct engagement with Mauritian authorities.

APTEC Mauritius provides end-to-end assistance, including:

• Permit eligibility assessments and strategy guidance

• Document preparation and application submission

• Banking introductions and account opening

• Medical appointment coordination

• Dependent permit applications

• Renewal and long-term residency planning

Our experienced team ensures your permit application is clear, compliant, and processed efficiently.

Ready to Apply for a Mauritius Permit?

Whether you plan to work, invest, start a business, or retire, APTEC is here to guide you through every step of the Mauritius permit process.

Contact our consultants today for a complimentary consultation and start your journey to living in Mauritius with confidence.