Mauritius Work Permits & Visas: Employer Guide to Types & Sponsorship

Who Needs a Work Permit in Mauritius?

In Mauritius, any non-citizen intending to engage in employment, whether for reward or profit, must possess a valid work permit. This requirement applies across all sectors and job roles, ensuring that foreign nationals are authorized to work within the country's legal framework.

Common Types of Work Visas in Mauritius

Mauritius offers several work visa options tailored to different professional needs and qualifications.

Occupation Permit

The Occupation Permit is one of the most popular work permits in Mauritius, designed for foreign nationals who wish to live and work in the country. It is issued for individuals who have secured employment in Mauritius or are self-employed and intend to contribute their expertise to the local economy. The Occupation Permit is available in three different categories: Employee, Self-employed, and Investor.

Employee Category: For foreign nationals who have secured a job in Mauritius and meet specific salary criteria. The salary threshold is typically set at a minimum of MUR 60,000 per month, but it varies depending on the position and industry.

Self-employed Category: For entrepreneurs or professionals wishing to start a business or work independently in Mauritius.

Investor Category: For foreign nationals who are looking to invest in a business or property in Mauritius, creating jobs and contributing to the local economy.

The Occupation Permit is valid for a period of three years and can be renewed. After three years of continuous employment under the Employee category, the permit holder can apply for permanent residency in Mauritius. This is an attractive option for skilled professionals or business owners who plan to stay and contribute to the local economy.

💡 Best work permit option if: The Occupation Permit is ideal for individuals with specific professional skills, entrepreneurs, or investors who wish to live and work in Mauritius. It is best suited for those in specialized sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare, or for those seeking to set up or manage a business in Mauritius.

Work Permit

The Work Permit in Mauritius is primarily aimed at foreign nationals who have secured employment with a Mauritius-based employer but do not meet the criteria for the Occupation Permit. This permit is issued to foreign workers who will be employed in lower-skilled jobs or those whose salary does not meet the minimum threshold for the Occupation Permit.

The work permit is typically valid for the duration of the employment contract, and the employer must demonstrate that they could not find a suitable local candidate for the position. The application process for a Work Permit requires the employer to submit the job offer and provide evidence that the position has been advertised locally before hiring a foreign worker.

A key difference between the Work Permit and the Occupation Permit is that Work Permits are generally issued for lower-skilled positions, while the Occupation Permit caters to higher-skilled professionals. Work Permits are subject to annual renewals, and foreign workers must comply with the terms of the employment contract.

💡 Best work permit option if: This permit is ideal for foreign nationals employed in lower-skilled positions, or for those who do not meet the criteria of the Occupation Permit. It is best suited for industries such as hospitality, manufacturing, and agriculture, where foreign workers are required to fill gaps in the local labor market.

Permanent Resident Permit

The Permanent Resident Permit is a long-term visa option for individuals who have lived and worked in Mauritius for a minimum of three years under an Occupation Permit or who have made a significant investment in the country. The Permanent Resident Permit allows individuals to reside and work in Mauritius indefinitely, without the need for regular renewals.

Applicants for the Permanent Resident Permit must meet specific criteria, such as maintaining a stable income and employment in Mauritius for the duration of the initial permit period. For investors, the requirement is to make a substantial investment, typically in real estate or business ventures, contributing to the country’s economic growth. The permit holder is also allowed to bring their immediate family members to Mauritius.

This permit is an attractive option for those who want to establish a permanent life in Mauritius and who have made a significant contribution to the local economy, either through employment or investment.

💡 Best work permit option if: The Permanent Resident Permit is ideal for foreign nationals who have lived in Mauritius for an extended period (usually three years) and are looking for long-term stability. It’s especially suitable for investors and high-skilled workers who want to enjoy the benefits of living and working permanently in Mauritius.

Investor Permit

The Investor Permit is designed for foreign nationals who wish to establish a business or invest in Mauritius. To qualify for this permit, applicants must invest a significant amount of capital in the local economy. This could be through the purchase of real estate, starting a business, or making a direct investment in an existing business.

The Investor Permit is aimed at high-net-worth individuals who can contribute to the economy by creating jobs, boosting industries, or expanding the real estate market. The applicant must invest a minimum of MUR 15 million in a business or property, and the investment must meet the government's guidelines for economic contribution.

Investor Permit holders can also bring their immediate family members to Mauritius. This permit is valid for a period of 10 years, after which it can be renewed, provided the investment remains active and complies with the regulations set by the government.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals looking to invest in Mauritius. It’s perfect for those who want to create jobs or contribute to the local economy through investments in sectors such as technology, real estate, tourism, or manufacturing.

Short-Term Work Permit

The Short-Term Work Permit is designed for foreign nationals who are in Mauritius for temporary work or short-term assignments. This type of visa is commonly used by individuals who are part of a team for a specific project, or by professionals who are brought in for training, consultancy, or short-term contracts.

The Short-Term Work Permit is usually valid for up to one year, but the duration can vary depending on the specifics of the project or assignment. Applicants must show that their work in Mauritius is limited in scope and duration, and that it will not impact the local job market.

This permit is ideal for professionals who need to work in Mauritius for a specific task or project and who do not plan to stay long-term.

💡 Best work permit option if: This visa is ideal for foreign professionals, contractors, or consultants who are coming to Mauritius for a short-term project, training, or specific job assignment. It is well-suited for businesses that need foreign expertise temporarily without the need for a long-term visa.

Requirements for a Work Permit in Mauritius

To obtain a work permit in Mauritius, both the employer and the prospective employee must meet specific criteria to ensure compliance with local labor laws.

• Business Registration: The employer must be a legally registered entity in Mauritius, holding a valid Certificate of Incorporation and business registration card.
• Labor Market Test: Evidence that the position was advertised locally, demonstrating the unavailability of suitable Mauritian candidates.
• Age Criteria: Applicants should be between 20 and 60 years old, with exceptions for specialized skills.
• Qualifications: Relevant academic and professional qualifications pertinent to the job role.
• Health Clearance: A medical certificate from the Ministry of Health and Quality of Life confirming fitness for employment.

Mauritius Work Permit Application Process

• Job Offer: Secure a formal employment offer from a Mauritius-based employer.
• Document Preparation: Gather necessary documents, including passport copies, proof of qualifications, medical certificates, and the employment contract.
• Application Submission: The employer submits the work permit application through the e-Work Permit Portal, along with the required fees.
• Approval and Issuance: Upon approval, a provisional work permit is issued, allowing the employee to travel to Mauritius. The employer must collect the official work permit within two working days of the employee's arrival.

Process for Visa Sponsorship in Mauritius

Employers sponsoring foreign nationals must demonstrate that the job position cannot be filled by a local candidate. This involves advertising the position locally and providing evidence of recruitment efforts. Additionally, employers are responsible for initiating the work permit application and ensuring all regulatory requirements are met.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Mauritius

The fees for work permits and visas in Mauritius vary based on the industry and duration of employment.

Note: The above fees reflect government fees for work permits and visas in Mauritius, and is not associated with Playroll's fees for visa support services. Please contact our team for detailed information on our visa support services.

Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Mauritius

The processing time for work permits and visas in Mauritius can vary depending on the type of permit, the applicant’s nationality, and the specifics of the application. Here's an overview tailored to employers considering hiring international talent in Mauritius:

1. Work Permit (For Foreign Employees)

• Processing Time: Typically 2 to 3 weeks.
• What to Expect: The processing time for a work permit is generally fast. Employers must submit a complete application, including proof of employment, qualifications, and the salary offer that meets the minimum required by the government. The work permit will be valid for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of 3 years.

2. Occupation Permit (For Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Investors)

• Processing Time: Around 2 to 4 weeks.
• What to Expect: The Occupation Permit is for highly skilled workers, professionals, and investors. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including a minimum salary threshold (typically around MUR 60,000 per month) for workers. The application process is relatively straightforward, but documentation needs to be thorough.

3. Residence Permit (For Employees with an Occupation Permit)

• Processing Time: Typically 2 to 4 weeks.
• What to Expect: Employees holding an Occupation Permit are generally eligible for a residence permit for the duration of their employment. This is processed in parallel with the work permit, and the same timeline applies.

4. Visitor Visa (For Short-Term Stays or Business Trips)

• Processing Time: Usually 2 to 7 business days.
• What to Expect: If your employee is coming for a short business trip, a visitor visa can be processed quickly. However, this visa is typically only for short stays, and the employee must leave Mauritius and apply for a work visa if they intend to stay long-term.

5. Permanent Residency

• Processing Time: Approximately 3 to 6 months.
• What to Expect: Foreign employees who have held an Occupation Permit for at least 3 years can apply for permanent residency. The application requires proof of continued employment and compliance with the financial requirements. This process is more detailed and takes longer due to the extensive documentation required.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Mauritius

Work permits in Mauritius are generally valid for up to four years. In specific sectors, such as textile manufacturing, foreign workers may be allowed to work for a period of eight years. After completing this period, employees must leave the country for one year before reapplying for a new permit. Renewal applications should be submitted prior to the expiration of the current permit, with any changes in employment terms duly reported to authorities.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Mauritius

Mauritius offers a Premium Visa designed for digital nomads and remote workers who wish to live in the country while working remotely for businesses outside Mauritius. This visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for an additional year.

 
• Proof of Remote Work: Applicants must demonstrate that their primary source of income comes from outside Mauritius.
• Minimum Income: A minimum monthly income of $1,500 is required for individuals, $3,000 for couples, and an additional $500 for each dependent under 24 years old.
• Health and Travel Insurance: Applicants must provide evidence of adequate insurance coverage for the duration of their stay.
• Accommodation Proof: Proof of long-term accommodation arrangements in Mauritius is required.

The application process for the Premium Visa is conducted online, and approvals are typically issued within 48 hours. Applicants should ensure compliance with tax regulations if staying in Mauritius for more than 183 days in a calendar year.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

• Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
• Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
• Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.