Becoming a Mauritian resident is above all a matter of choosing the right door in: there is one for every profile, from the retiree to the company director, with clear financial thresholds and online procedures through the Economic Development Board (EDB). Here are the six permits, their exact amounts and the process step by step.
The different residence permits
The retiree permit: from age 50
Transfer at least USD 2,000 per month (or USD 24,000 per year) to a Mauritian bank account and the 10-year, renewable permit is yours. The amount was raised by the 2026/27 budget. The lifestyle that comes with it is described in our article on retiring in Mauritius.
The investor Occupation Permit: create or invest
An initial investment of at least USD 100,000 (threshold raised by the 2026/27 budget) in an EDB-approved activity lets you live in Mauritius while running your business, with 15% corporate tax and untaxed dividends. For renewal, a minimum turnover is expected: MUR 5 million from the 3rd year, MUR 8 million from the 5th.
The professional Occupation Permit: working for a local employer
It requires a local contract with a base salary of at least MUR 50,000 per month (around €1,000), a threshold now unified across all sectors since the 2026/27 budget. Our article on finding a job in Mauritius details the sectors that are hiring.
The self-employed permit: for independents
Freelancers and consultants can settle with an initial deposit of USD 50,000 in a Mauritian account (threshold raised by the 2026/27 budget) to practise their activity legally. The 2026/27 budget adds a minimum annual income of MUR 2 million from the 3rd year (MUR 3 million for renewal in the 5th year).
The permit linked to a property purchase: the most direct
A purchase of at least USD 375,000 in an approved scheme (IRS, RES, PDS, Smart City) gives the whole family a residence permit, valid as long as you own the property, which includes the right to work in Mauritius without any additional permit. It is the route for those who want to combine lifestyle and wealth: see our property buying guide.
The Golden Visa: new in the 2026/27 budget
Mauritius is introducing a Golden Visa for major investors: at least USD 1 million invested within the first 12 months in strategic sectors (FinTech, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, renewable energy, international treasury services). In return: an initial permit of up to 2 years, then access to permanent residency.
The permanent residence permit: the crowning step
Valid for 20 years and renewable, it is obtained after three years of residence under a standard permit, provided you meet income or investment criteria for your category.
The process, step by step
- Define your project: which status matches your situation? That is the first conversation to have, and we have it with you.
- Gather the documents: passport, proof of income, medical certificate... each permit has its list.
- Submit the application online with the EDB.
- Wait for approval: generally a few weeks with a complete file.
- Receive your permit and start your new life. Welcome to Mauritius!
To prepare every part of your move
- The residence permit routes in detail
- The taxation that awaits you (spoiler: it is gentle)
- Schools and education: the family guide
- The cost of living, line by line
- Choosing your region: North, West, East or South
Frequently asked questions
How long does the residency process take?
From a few weeks to two or three months depending on the chosen route and how complete the file is, with applications going through the Economic Development Board (EDB). A property purchase and the permit application move forward in parallel.
Does the permit cover the whole family?
Yes: spouse and dependent children are included, whether the permit comes from a property purchase (from USD 375,000 in an approved scheme), an Occupation Permit or retiree status.
Do you already need a home to apply for residency?
No, except for the property purchase route where the property itself opens the right. Many of our clients start with a long-term rental while choosing their region, then buy once they are sure.
Planning a move? Write to us: one team for the home, the permit and the right addresses.
