Residence Permit in Mauritius: How to Get It?
Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is known as the paradise island but also as a prime relocation destination for many foreigners across the world. The island offers different types of residence permits. From retirees seeking a peaceful and relaxing environment to investors looking to take advantage of the island's growing economy, Mauritius has something to offer everyone. The most popular residency permit is the Occupation Permit, which allows foreigners to live and work in Mauritius for up to 10 years. Additionally, the Permanent Residence Permit is available for those who have lived in Mauritius for at least three years under another type of permit. Whether you are looking to retire, invest, or simply enjoy the beauty of the island, Mauritius has a residence permit option for you. In this article, we explore the different residency permits and how they can be acquired.
Residency by Acquisition of Real Estate in Mauritius
Mauritius has various types of real estate schemes set in place to encourage foreigners to invest in properties on the island. Some of the most famous ones are the Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS) and the Real Estate Scheme (RES). Each with its own specifics, Mauritius also offers other schemes such as the Property Development Scheme (PDS), Smart City Scheme, Ground + 2 Apartments, and Invest Hotel Scheme (IHS).
The Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)
The Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS) allows foreigners to purchase luxury villas or apartments in designated resorts with a minimum investment threshold of USD 375,000. This scheme also grants residency to the investor and their immediate family.
Residential estates developed under the IRS offer a wide variety of world class amenities for leisure, entertainment, and wellness, such as golf courses, marinas, beachclubs, clubhouses, and wellness centres that surround the residences, providing an exclusive experience.
The Real Estate Scheme (RES)
The Real Estate Scheme (RES) is another option for foreigners looking to invest in a property in Mauritius, with a minimum investment of USD 375,000. This scheme allows investors to purchase apartments or villas in approved real estate developments across the island. The RES projects offer different types of residences, such as villas, penthouses, duplexes, and apartments, located in somewhat smaller residential developments.
The owners can rent out the property, move to Mauritius, and pay taxes there, and there are no limits on how much money they can send back to their home country from selling or letting the property. Individuals who are not citizens of Mauritius but have a housing permit under RES will not need an occupation or work permit in order to invest or work there.
The Property Development Scheme (PDS)
The PDS allows for the development of luxury properties, including villas and apartments, with the added benefit of residency for the owner and their immediate family. This scheme also offers flexibility in terms of rental income and repatriation of funds.
The projects built under this programme offer exceptional, luxurious residential properties that meet the highest international standards. They also include first-rate open spaces, first-rate leisure and recreational amenities, and daily management services. Harmonie Golf Villas is being developed under the PDS scheme and will be sold off under the VEFA (Vente en l’État Futur d'Achèvement) regime.
A non-citizen who purchases residential property for more than USD 375,000 is granted a residency permit for the duration of his or her ownership of the property. The spouse and children under the age of 24 are also given a residency permit. Non-citizens with a PDS resident permit will not require an occupation or work permission to invest and work in Mauritius.
Smart City Scheme
Smart cities are designed around the concept of work, life, and play, blending residential, commercial, and recreational spaces with cutting-edge technology and innovative ideas.
These developments feature integrated master plans that create sustainable and enjoyable lifestyles. Residents can live, work, and relax all in one place, with ample opportunities for businesses and various leisure activities right at their doorstep. Non-citizens can buy a range of properties, including townhouses, villas, apartments, penthouses, and duplexes, in these smart cities.
Non-citizens can also qualify for a residency permit by purchasing a residential property worth at least USD 375,000.
Ground + 2 Apartments
Non-citizens can now get a residence permit by buying a home in a building with at least two floors above the ground floor for at least USD 375,000 or the equivalent amount in other currencies. Section 5(1)(4) of the Immigration Act permits this, as mentioned in Budget 2021/22. Under the G+2 scheme, non-citizens can keep the residence permit as long as they own the land.
Foreigners are also allowed to buy apartments in developments outside of the approved residential schemes. These apartments must be in buildings with at least two levels above ground (G+2), and the purchase price must be at least MUR 6 million or its equivalent in other convertible currencies.
Invest Hotel Scheme (IHS)
By investing at least USD 375,000 in a hotel project that has received Board of Investment approval, non-citizens are eligible to apply for a residence permit under the Invest Hotel Scheme (IHS). This scheme is designed to boost investment in the tourism sector and provide opportunities for foreigners to own property in Mauritius. The owner gets to enjoy exclusive access to all the features of a luxurious resort hotel, complete with fine dining options, fully stocked bars and fitness centres, and resort-style swimming pools. The unit owner or anyone acting on his behalf may use the unit for a total of 45 days in any 12-month period and earn an income through the lease back model.
Residency in Mauritius by Profession
Professionals looking to reside in Mauritius can also apply for residency under the Occupation Permit (OP) scheme, which offers various categories based on the individual's profession. This permit allows for flexibility in terms of employment and business opportunities on the island, making it an attractive option for those seeking to live and work in Mauritius.
Professionals right to invest
(a) The holder of an occupation permit as a non-citizen professional may invest in any business, provided that – (i) he is not employed in the business; and (ii) he does not derive any salary or employment benefits from the business.
(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), the holder of an occupation permit as a non-citizen professional may hold shares in a business where he is employed, provided that he is not a majority shareholder.
Retire to Mauritius : Residency for Senior Non Citizens
The residency for senior non-citizens in Mauritius allows individuals over the age of 50 to retire in the country with certain benefits and privileges. This programme aims to attract retirees looking for a peaceful and comfortable lifestyle in a tropical paradise.
Why retire to Mauritius?
Retiring to Mauritius offers a high quality of life, with access to world-class healthcare, beautiful beaches, and a safe environment. Retiring in Mauritius also provides tax benefits for seniors, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their retirement savings. Moreover, the diverse culture and warm hospitality of the Mauritian people create a welcoming and inclusive community for retirees to enjoy their golden years.
Retired Non-Citizen +50 years
Old retirees who choose to make Mauritius their home can apply for a Retired Non-Citizen Permit. With USD 1500 monthly, retirees can benefit from a 10-year residence permit and live in a peaceful environment. The Residence Permit further offers you the possibility to apply for a 20-year Permanent Residence Permit after 3 consecutive years.
Right to Invest by Retired Non-Citizen of +50 years
The holder of a residence permit as a retired non-citizen may invest in any business, provided that – (a) he is not employed in the business; and (b) he does not derive any salary or employment benefits from the business.
Harmonie Golf and Beach Estate, a PDS Project
Harmonie Golf Villas, a PDS project, consists of 220 luxury villas built on 150 hectares of land with an 18-hole international golf course. Harmonie Golf & Beach Estate will offer two types of offers: ready-built villas available off-plan to Mauritian and foreign buyers under a VEFA contract (in a future state of completion) beginning at €1,950,000, and serviced plots with strict architectural guidelines for villa construction.
