How to Start a Business in Mauritius as a Foreigner

Starting a business as a foreigner in any country can be stressful. However, once you get through the initial stages, life in Mauritius will satiate all your longings for a luxurious, peaceful yet productive life by the sea. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of establishing your business as a foreigner in Mauritius. 

How to choose the ideal location for your business in Mauritius? 

How do you choose the ideal location to start your business in the fair isle of Mauritius? Visit the nation as a tourist, and explore potential localities. You can spend a couple of days in each potential area. If you’re considering settling down near a beautiful beach, plan to stay a few days in Blue Bay Mauritius Hotels. Check with hotels like the Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas for discounts on advance booking or longer stays. Once you figure out a few potential localities for your business, make a list of facilities you would need, and check the potential of each area. If your business would require a rental space, would that work out? What are the other specific facilities your business would require? Take into consideration the commodity or service you wish to offer, and your target market. Once you settle on the location, you’ll need to get work permission and acquire property. 

How can you apply to work from Mauritius?

The Mauritius government allows eligible foreigners to work in the paradise island, and enjoy its blessings. If you’re one - you can obtain a permit to retire in Mauritius. There are several pathways for this, including the Occupation Permit, Residence Permit or Permanent Resident Permit. If you’re a young person, the Young Professional Occupation Permit is a good option. You can even apply for a Premium Travel Visa in Mauritius to work remotely from there.

How to apply for a visa to conduct business from Mauritius?

 First of all, decide which category works best for you. You need to submit your applications for both Occupation and Resident permits through the National E-licensing System. The Government will only consider applications sent through this system. The Permanent Residence Permit allows non-citizens who fulfil the requirements to work and live in the sunny islands for up to 20 years. They can then renew the PR status for further 20 years. To apply for this particular permit, go to the Residence Permit Section of the Prime Minister’s office. If you’re a young professional, your employer should submit an email application to the [email protected] address. You can apply for a year’s premium travel visa online.

How can you acquire property in Mauritius as an expat?

Mauritius offers several schemes to allow expats to acquire property. You can opt for one of the below schemes – all approved and facilitated by the Economic Development Board in Mauritius.

·         Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)

·         Real Estate Scheme (RES)

·         Property Development Scheme (PDS)

·         Smart City Scheme

·         Ground +2 apartments Scheme

How to register your business in Mauritius?

Once you receive permits to work or conduct your business from Mauritius, you’ll need to register the business. You can do this online with the office of the Registrar of Businesses. You’ll need to submit the necessary information online and then pay a fee depending on the workforce.

·         For businesses with ten employees – MUR 125

·         For businesses with 11 to 50 employees – MUR 250

·         For businesses with over 100 employees – MUR 600        

Once you go through the process, the department will send you an electronic business registration card. You can get the physical copy of the permit from the main office.