Picture this: palm trees swaying gently in the breeze, crystal-clear waters lapping against pristine beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle that combines tropical paradise with modern living. Welcome to Mauritius, an island nation known for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and favorable tax policies.
Key Takeaways
Why Choose Mauritius for Permanent Residency?
Mauritius is not just a holiday destination—it’s also becoming a popular destination for expats seeking permanent residency. Whether you’re looking to retire in style, work remotely from a tropical haven, or invest in a growing economy, Mauritius offers a variety of pathways for obtaining permanent residency.
This guide covers everything you need to know about applying for Mauritius PR, including popular routes like the Occupational Permit (OP), Residence Permit (RP), and Mauritius Residency by Investment options.
1. Mauritius Residency by Investment: The Investor’s Paradise
Mauritius offers an attractive residency option for those who are willing to invest in the country’s property market or start a business. Known for its tax-friendly policies, the island welcomes investors with open arms.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Investment in Property: You must invest at least USD 375,000 in a government-approved property development, such as a luxury villa or apartment. These developments are typically found in high-end areas and offer a luxurious lifestyle.
- Business Investment: Alternatively, you can invest in a business in Mauritius that generates jobs for the local population. This path generally requires you to invest USD 100,000 or more in the business and create employment opportunities for locals.
- Health Insurance: You must have valid health insurance and prove you have the financial means to support your stay in Mauritius.
The Process:
- Choose Your Investment: Decide whether you want to invest in real estate or start a business. This decision will guide your residency process.
- Application Submission: Submit your application to the Economic Development Board (EDB). You will need to provide proof of your investment, financial resources, and intention to live in Mauritius long-term.
- Residency Approval: After your investment is verified, you will be granted a residency permit, allowing you to live in Mauritius. This permit is valid for 10 years and can be renewed.
Key Benefits:
- Long-Term Stay: The residency permit issued is valid for 10 years, which can be renewed if you continue to meet the investment and residency requirements.
- Tax Advantages: Mauritius has a low tax rate, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors.
- Access to Education and Healthcare: Investors and their families are granted access to quality healthcare and international schools on the island.
2. The Occupational Permit (OP): For Skilled Professionals
If you are a skilled worker or business owner, the Occupational Permit (OP) is a great option for living and working in Mauritius long-term. This permit allows professionals to work in specific fields, such as IT, finance, and engineering.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Employment Contract: You must have a valid job offer or employment contract in Mauritius. The job should be in an area that the government deems essential to the economy, such as information technology, finance, or engineering.
- Salary Minimum: For a work permit through the OP, you must earn a minimum of MUR 30,000 (approximately USD 700) per month. However, higher-paying professions (like doctors, engineers, and IT specialists) may have different salary thresholds.
- Skills and Qualifications: You must have qualifications or experience in a field that matches the job offer and is in demand in Mauritius.
The Process:
- Secure a Job: The first step is to secure a job in Mauritius. Many international companies operate on the island, and there is always demand for skilled workers.
- Submit Application: Once you have a job offer, submit an application for the Occupational Permit. You’ll need to provide proof of your qualifications, job offer, and salary.
- Approval: After your application is reviewed, you’ll be granted an Occupational Permit. This will allow you to live and work in Mauritius for the duration of your employment contract.
Key Benefits:
- Family Benefits: Your spouse and children can also be included in your OP application, allowing them to join you in Mauritius.
- Professional Opportunities: Mauritius has a growing job market in technology, finance, and hospitality, offering plenty of opportunities for skilled workers.
Also Read: How to Get Permanent Residency in Germany: Blue Card to PR (2025 Guide)
3. Mauritius Residency by Retirement: Live Your Dream Retirement
Mauritius has a special residency scheme for retirees, offering those aged 50 and above the opportunity to retire on the island in luxury. If you want to live in paradise, this is an ideal option, as it doesn’t require investment in property or starting a business.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 50 years old.
- Monthly Income: You need to prove that you have a stable monthly income of at least USD 1,500 to support yourself in Mauritius. This can come from pensions, savings, or investment returns.
- Health Insurance: As a retiree, you must have valid health insurance that covers you in Mauritius.
The Process:
- Prove Income: Show proof of your stable income from pensions, savings, or investments.
- Submit Application: Submit your retirement residency application to the Economic Development Board (EDB), along with your proof of income and health insurance.
- Residency Approval: Once approved, you’ll be granted a residency permit for retirees, which allows you to live in Mauritius for 10 years.
Key Benefits:
- Stress-Free Retirement: This scheme allows you to retire in a peaceful, tax-friendly environment with stunning scenery and an affordable lifestyle.
- Family Inclusion: Your spouse can also be included in the residency application.
- Access to Healthcare: Retirees enjoy access to healthcare services, and the healthcare system in Mauritius is of a high standard.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Mauritius PR
- Not Understanding the Investment Requirements: If you’re applying through the investment route, make sure you understand the full financial commitment before applying.
- Inadequate Proof of Income: For the retirement residency route, it’s essential to provide clear proof that you can financially support yourself in Mauritius.
- Ignoring Residency Rules: Some applicants fail to meet the specific requirements for family inclusion or the minimum income thresholds, which can lead to delays in the application process.
- Overlooking Health Insurance: Mauritius requires adequate health insurance for all residency applicants. Don’t skip this essential part of the process!
Final Thoughts: Living the Dream in Mauritius
Mauritius offers a fantastic opportunity for those looking to live in a tax-friendly, peaceful, and beautiful destination. Whether you’re an investor, skilled worker, retiree, or entrepreneur, Mauritius provides various avenues for permanent residency. By understanding the requirements and following the process, you can call this paradise island your permanent home.
Get ready to live in one of the world’s most idyllic locations with luxury, lifestyle, and long-term residency benefits at your fingertips.
Karan Rawat
Content strategist and Full-time editor of The Immigration World. Karan focuses on simplifying complex immigration rules and scholarship opportunities into clear, practical guidance for global readers. Passionate about making international relocation easier for everyone.
