Mauritius Residency
by Investment

What is the Mauritius Residency by Investment Program?

In July 2021, Mauritius approved the Budget Bill No. XIII, amending the Nationality Act 1970 for granting residence permits to investors and their family members.

Mauritius’ residency program allows foreign nationals to invest in real estate in the country and apply for a residence permit. Through the Mauritius Immigrant Investor Program, investing in the nation’s real estate market can make foreign investors Mauritian residents within two to six months. Successful applicants and their families are granted full residency rights, including the right to live, work, and retire in Mauritius.

The government of Mauritius offers various investment options for investors. This program provides a 3-year visa, leading to permanent residency and eventually, citizenship.

Interested in a Mauritius residency visa? JH. Marlin can help you.

Route to Citizenship for Mauritian Residents

An applicant with a temporary residency permit by investment holds an initial ten-year residency permit. They must first obtain a permanent residence permit to qualify for Mauritian citizenship, as there is no direct citizenship by investment scheme.

Permanent residence status is granted three years after the residence permit if the investor meets certain conditions, including proof of annual income. A permanent residence permit is granted for 20 years and can be renewed.

After five years of residency, investors can apply for citizenship.

Main Advantages of the Mauritius Investor Visa Program

Business Advantages

Known for ease of doing business
Return on investment possible by renting out investment property
Well-regulated international financial center
Political, social, and economic stability
Tax benefits: No inheritance tax or profit tax, 15% income tax (personal and corporate).

Family Advantages

Residence applicable to the whole family
Includes spouse or common law partner, parents, and children (as well as stepchildren and adopted children) of any age, as long as they are unmarried and fully dependent on the main applicant

Personal Advantages

Minimum investment of USD 375,000
Processing time of 2-6 months
The right to live, work, and retire in Mauritius
Safe environment
Access to good educational institutions
Mauritius allows dual citizenship

Eligibility criteria for a Mauritius Golden Visa includes that the applicant:

Must be 18 years and above
Must be in good financial standing (provide bank statements)
Must have good moral character
Must not have a past criminal record
Must have basic language proficiency in English
Must have a good education background
Must have travel insurance

Investment Requirements for Mauritian Residency

There are several options for investment to establish residency in Mauritius.
1. The Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS): Purchase a luxury residential property with a minimum value of USD 375,000 and a land area of at least 10 hectares.
2. The Real Estate Scheme (RES): Purchase a luxury residential property with a minimum value of USD 375,000, built on freehold land less than 10 hectares.
3. The Property Development Scheme (PDS):
  - Purchase a luxury residential property with a minimum value of USD 375,000.
  - Property must be part of an integrated social benefit project.
  - Focus on environmental and ecological aspects.
4. The Smart City Scheme (SCS):
  - Purchase a luxury residential property with a minimum value of USD 375,000.
  - SCS projects emphasize friendly living, energy efficiency, connectivity, and modern transportation.

Alternatively, applicants can select one of the following qualifying investment opportunities directly for a 20-year residence permit:

Initial transfer of USD 50,000 for a business activity with cumulative turnover for a 10-year initial residence period.
Initial investment of USD 50,000 in high-tech machinery for a business activity with cumulative turnover for a 10-year initial residence period.
Initial investment of USD 40,000 and a minimum expenditure of 20% on research and development for a 10-year initial residence period.
Monthly salary with a minimum value of USD 1,400 (USD 700 in the ICT sector) for a 10-year initial residence period.
Initial transfer of USD 35,000 to a local bank account in Mauritius for a 10-year initial residence period.

The Procedure for Mauritius Residency Visa Application

Clients contact JH Marlin.
Initial due diligence checks are performed for eligibility.
Client agreement is signed, and retainer is paid.
Applicants choose the best investment option with our team.
In the case of real estate, choose the preferred property with our team.
Files are prepared and required documents are collected.
Application with supporting documents is made online.
The Occupation Permit Unit (OPU) verifies applications.
A Joint Committee reviews the application.
If approved, an approval email is sent, valid for 90 days.
Complete the investment, make the final application, and submit the application fee online.
Schedule an appointment with the OPU for personal verification.
Register with the Economic Development Board to receive the residence permit from the Passport and Immigration Office.