The Economic Development Board of Mauritius has announced changes to the Occupation and Residence Permits, introducing higher and more uniform financial criteria for investors, self-employed individuals, employers, and foreign professionals. These changes aim to streamline and strengthen the requirements for obtaining and renewing occupation permits in the country. The new rules will apply to various categories of applicants, including investors, self-employed individuals, and foreign professionals.
For Investor Occupation Permits, the minimum initial investment has been set at $100,000. Additionally, the business led by the investor must generate at least Rs 5 million in annual turnover from the third year of registration. For renewals from the fifth year onwards, this threshold increases to Rs 8 million. These requirements are designed to ensure that investor-led businesses contribute significantly to the country's economy.
Self-employed individuals applying for Occupation Permits must meet new financial thresholds. From their third year of operation, they must achieve a minimum annual professional income of Rs 2 million. For renewals from the fifth year onwards, this threshold rises to Rs 3 million. These requirements aim to ensure that self-employed individuals contribute to the country's economic growth.
Foreign professionals employed in Mauritius will also be subject to new financial requirements. The minimum monthly base salary has been set at Rs 50,000 across all sectors. Employers recruiting internationally must ensure that allowances and benefits are not included in the base salary calculation. These changes are intended to standardize the remuneration of foreign professionals.
The new financial thresholds represent eligibility criteria rather than automatic guarantees for obtaining or renewing occupation permits. Authorities will also examine factors such as business compliance, actual activity, financial documents, migratory status, and other regulatory conditions. Applicants must prepare their applications through the official residence portal, providing the necessary supporting documents for their chosen category.
Existing permit holders must verify the transitional arrangements applicable to their first renewal deadline. The Economic Development Board encourages all stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the new requirements to ensure a smooth transition. The changes are expected to enhance the country's occupation permit regime and contribute to its economic development.
The new rules are now in effect, and applicants are advised to plan accordingly. The authorities will assess applications based on the new criteria, and permit holders must comply with the updated requirements to avoid any disruptions. The Economic Development Board remains committed to providing guidance and support to applicants and stakeholders throughout this process.
Key points
- The minimum initial investment for Investor Occupation Permits is $100,000.
- Self-employed individuals must achieve a minimum annual professional income of Rs 2 million from their third year of operation.
- The minimum monthly base salary for foreign professionals is Rs 50,000.
