Mauritius remains an attractive destination for foreign professionals and international talent, thanks to its economic stability, dynamic sectors, and favorable environment for skilled workers. The Professional Occupation Permit allows foreign employees to live and work legally on the island while contributing to key sectors of the Mauritian economy.
Categories and Eligibility
The Professional Occupation Permit is available in two categories:
1. ProPass (Professional Pass)
- Minimum monthly salary: MUR 30,000.
- For professionals employed by a Mauritian company with a contract registered with the Economic Development Board (EDB).
2. Expert Pass
- Minimum monthly salary: MUR 250,000.
- Designed for highly qualified professionals or experts in their field.
Duration and Renewal
- The permit is issued for the duration of the employment contract or up to 10 years, whichever is shorter.
- A Short-term Occupation Permit can be granted for up to 9 months and extended once for a maximum of 3 additional months.
- Transitioning from a short-term permit to a long-term permit within the same company requires a cancellation letter from the employer.
Application Procedure
When changing jobs, an Occupation Permit holder must submit a new application for the position, which must meet the EDB criteria. If employment ends, the employer must notify the EDB, and the permit will be cancelled. The non-citizen then has six months to secure new employment and submit a fresh permit application.
Eligibility for Permanent Residence
Professionals holding an Occupation Permit who have worked in Mauritius for at least 5 years, earning a minimum basic monthly salary of MUR 400,000 over that period, may apply for a Permanent Residence Permit (PRP). Applications must be submitted within 6 months of meeting these criteria, granting the holder a 20-year resident status in Mauritius.
Young Professional Occupation Permit (YPOP)
The Mauritian government offers the Young Professional Occupation Permit (YPOP), aimed at young foreign graduates who have studied at a local higher education institution. This permit allows them to work in Mauritius for a maximum period of 3 years, with a minimum monthly salary of 25,000 MUR. The permit fees vary depending on its duration, ranging from 150 to 300 USD. Applications are submitted online via the National Electronic Licensing System (NELS), and only the statutory fees are payable by approved applicants.
