Premium Visa
Long-stay visa for remote workers, digital nomads, and retirees โ one year, renewable, no local tax on foreign income.
The Mauritius Premium Visa was introduced to attract internationally mobile professionals, remote workers, digital nomads, retirees, and individuals seeking an extended stay in Mauritius without the need for a formal occupation permit. The visa allows non-citizens to reside in Mauritius for up to one year, with the option to renew. Holders work remotely for employers or clients located outside Mauritius and continue to draw their income from non-Mauritius sources.
The Premium Visa is designed to capitalise on the global shift toward remote and flexible working, attracting high-earning professionals who spend their income locally, contributing to the economy without competing with Mauritius residents for employment. The application process is streamlined compared to an occupation permit โ it is faster, involves fewer documentary requirements, and can be processed entirely online. There is no requirement to invest in a Mauritius company or secure a local employment contract.
For individuals considering a longer-term move to Mauritius, the Premium Visa provides an ideal entry point: it allows the holder to experience life on the island, establish banking and local connections, find accommodation, enrol children in schools, and assess whether to subsequently apply for a more permanent permit category such as the Investor or Retired Non-Citizen Permit. From a tax perspective, holders whose primary income is earned outside Mauritius and who do not remit that income to Mauritius are generally not subject to Mauritius income tax on that foreign income during their stay, subject to their individual tax residency position. Each individual should seek qualified tax advice regarding their specific circumstances.
The Premium Visa was launched in 2020 to capitalise on the global shift to remote work. Valid for 1 year and renewable for subsequent one-year periods. There is no local tax on foreign-sourced income for qualifying visa holders.
Spouses and dependents may accompany the primary applicant. Holders must not engage in local employment in Mauritius. The visa is ideal for remote workers, freelancers, retirees of any age (unlike the Retired Non-Citizen Permit which requires age 50+), and independent investors who do not need to operate a local business.
There is no minimum income threshold, though applicants must demonstrate they have sustainable means of support. Applications are typically processed within 48 hours online.
Key Features of the Mauritius Premium Visa
One-Year Duration, Renewable
The Premium Visa is issued for up to one year. It can be renewed for subsequent one-year periods, giving flexibility for extended long-term stays.
Remote Work Friendly
Specifically designed for professionals who work remotely for employers or clients based outside Mauritius. No local employment is required or permitted under this visa.
Foreign Income Generally Not Taxed
Income earned from outside Mauritius and not remitted to Mauritius is generally not subject to Mauritius income tax for Premium Visa holders, subject to individual tax residency analysis.
Simple, Fast Application
A streamlined application with fewer documentary requirements than an occupation permit. The process is largely online and significantly faster.
Family Welcome
Spouse and dependent children may accompany the main applicant, enabling families to relocate together.
Suitable for Multiple Profiles
Suitable for remote workers, digital nomads, freelancers, retirees with foreign pensions, entrepreneurs managing overseas businesses, and investors who do not require a formal work permit.
Bank Account Access
Premium Visa holders may open personal bank accounts in Mauritius, facilitating local spending, bill payments, and financial management.
Pathway to Longer-Term Permits
The Premium Visa provides a practical stepping stone for those considering a longer-term relocation to Mauritius via an Investor Permit, Retired Permit, or property-based residence.
No Minimum Age Requirement
Unlike the Retired Non-Citizen Permit which requires applicants to be 50 or older, the Premium Visa has no minimum age requirement, making it accessible to younger remote workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals at any career stage.
Fast Online Application
The Premium Visa application is submitted online via the EDB portal and is typically processed within 48 hours for complete applications โ significantly faster than formal occupation permit applications.
Ideal Transition Permit
The Premium Visa provides an ideal entry point for individuals considering a longer-term move to Mauritius. It allows the holder to experience island life and assess whether to subsequently apply for an Investor, Retired, or other longer-term permit.
No Local Employment Permitted
Premium Visa holders may not engage in any form of local employment in Mauritius. All work must be for employers or clients based outside Mauritius. Local business activity requires an Investor Occupation Permit.
Mandatory Health Insurance
Applicants must hold valid health insurance for the duration of their stay in Mauritius. This can be an existing international health policy or one obtained from a Mauritius-based insurer.
How to Obtain a Premium Visa for Mauritius
Eligibility Check
We verify that your income source, work arrangements, and personal circumstances qualify for the Premium Visa. We advise on documentation required based on your specific profile.
Document Preparation
We help you compile and prepare all required documents including passport, income evidence, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and supporting statements.
Online Application Submission
We submit the Premium Visa application through the EDB's online portal and manage all communications throughout the process.
Processing & Approval
Processing typically takes 2โ4 weeks. We monitor the application status and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Arrival Preparation
Prior to your arrival, we assist with securing accommodation, setting up banking, arranging schooling, and providing a practical guide to daily life in Mauritius.
Registration on Arrival
We guide you through the arrival formalities, including registration with the Passport and Immigration Office and any other administrative steps required.
Renewal Management
We initiate the renewal process 1โ2 months before the visa expires to ensure continuity of legal residence and avoid any gap in status.
Requirements for the Premium Visa
- Valid passport with a minimum of 18 months remaining validity
- Proof of foreign income (employment contract with a non-Mauritius employer, client contracts for freelancers, pension statements, or investment income evidence)
- Travel and health insurance valid for the duration of the stay in Mauritius
- Proof of accommodation in Mauritius (rental agreement, hotel reservation, or property ownership)
- Recent bank statements (last 3 months) confirming sufficient funds
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Completed Premium Visa application form
- Dependent passport copies and family relationship documents (for accompanying family members)
Costs Associated with the Mauritius Premium Visa
| Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | USD 0 (free) |
| Proof of Remote Income/Employment | Documentary requirement |
| Mandatory Health Insurance | USD 500โ2,000/year |
| No Minimum Income Threshold | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions About Premium Visa
Who is eligible for the Premium Visa?
The Premium Visa is designed for non-citizens who work remotely for employers or clients outside Mauritius, retirees with foreign pensions, freelancers with overseas clients, and investors managing businesses abroad. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient foreign income to support themselves and any dependents.
Can I work for a Mauritius company with a Premium Visa?
No. The Premium Visa does not authorise employment with a Mauritius-based company or entity. Holders must derive their income exclusively from sources outside Mauritius. If you want to work locally, you need an Occupation Permit (Investor or Professional).
Is there a minimum income requirement?
There is no published minimum income threshold for the Premium Visa. Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient income to support themselves and any accompanying dependents for the duration of their stay. Bank statements and income evidence are reviewed as part of the application.
Can I convert a Premium Visa to an Occupation Permit?
Yes. While residing in Mauritius on a Premium Visa, you may apply for an Investor Occupation Permit if you decide to invest in a Mauritius business, or a Retired Non-Citizen Permit if you meet the age and financial requirements. The Premium Visa is an excellent way to experience Mauritius before committing to a longer-term permit.
Will I be taxed in Mauritius?
Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances. Generally, foreign income not remitted to Mauritius is not subject to Mauritius income tax. If you spend 183 days or more in Mauritius in a tax year, you may become tax resident. We strongly recommend obtaining qualified tax advice for your specific situation.
Can I open a Mauritius bank account?
Yes. Premium Visa holders can open personal bank accounts at Mauritius commercial banks. We assist with the bank account opening process and provide all required supporting documentation.