mauritius work permit

Mauritius Work Permit: A Guide

Obtaining a Mauritius work permit has become increasingly pertinent in recent times. With a notable increase in companies actively scouting talent from various corners of the globe, the processes of obtaining a Mauritius Work Permit and an Occupation Permit Mauritius as a professional, have never been more relevant. One notable development in the application process is the use of the EDB platform, which has simplified the process.

It’s important to note that the application process has evolved over the years, and there are now options for third-party assistance. At TBI Mauritius, we specialise in providing support for Mauritius work permit applications.  Significant changes have occurred in this process in recent years. For a better understanding of the current rules and procedures related to a Mauritius Work Permit, contact us.

 

What is a Mauritius Work Permit?

A Mauritius Work Permit is an official authorisation issued by the government, granting foreign nationals the legal right to work and reside in Mauritius for a specified duration. These employees need to have relevant experience and qualifications tied to their job roles. If an employee is paid over MUR 30,000 and has necessary academic qualifications, then a better option would be the Occupation Permit Mauritius, subject to different criteria.

Permission in Principle

If a company wants to bring in foreign workers in bulk, they first need “permission in principle” before applying for a Mauritius Work Permit.

 

Eligibility for a Mauritius Work Permit

How do i get a work permit in Mauritius?

To get a Work Permit in Mauritius, foreign workers must meet the following criteria:

  • Have the right skills and experience for the job.
  • Be between 20 and 60 years old, with exceptions for specialised skills and investors.
  • Tourists cannot work in Mauritius.

  • Health clearance is a must for new applicants. This also applies to expatriates married to Mauritian nationals or deputed by foreign companies.

 

Mauritius Work Permit Requirements

WHat documents are required for a work permit in Mauritius?

The following company documents are required for an individual worker applying for a work permit in Mauritius:

  • Copies of press advertisement and outcome of selection exercise. Advertisements in newspapers should be of at least A6 size.

  • A copy of the Lodging Accommodation Permit (LAP)/Place of Accommodation Letter.
  • Latest CSG Receipt with list of local workers registered with NPF.
  • Particulars of Recruiting Agent, Local and Overseas, where applicable
  • Turnover figures of the company for the last 3 years
  • Authorisation letter from employer/sponsor
  • Certificate of Incorporation/Business Registration Card
  • NIC / Passport number of registered user
  • Additional documents for specific professions

The following personal documents are required for the worker:

  • Passport sized photograph

  • Copy of relevant parts of passport showing name, date of birth, place and date of issue of passport, photo, passport number and movement of the foreign employee (data page).The Passport should be valid for at least six months.

  • Where applicable, certified copy of academic and professional qualifications and details of work experience should be submitted in either French or English

  • Job profile (where applicable) of each employee
  • A provisional health clearance obtainable from the Ministry of Health & Quality of Life

  • Documentary evidence from the employer certifying that the expatriate will earn a monthly salary of more than Rs 50,000 or a copy of Contract of Employment duly vetted by the Labour Division of the Ministry of Labour, Human Resource Development and Training in respect of expatriates earning Rs 50,000 or less per month

  • For professionals having dependents: in case of spouse, the marriage certificate should be submitted and for children less than 18 years old, the birth certificate must be submitted (for Residence Permit Application).

  • Additional documents for specific professions

 

Additional documents for specific sectors

  • Tourism (Tour Operator), Hotels and Restaurants: Copy of valid Tourist Enterprise License delivered by the Tourism Authority and Latest receipt showing contributions to the Tourism Employees Welfare Fund.

For Restaurant:

–  Testimonials/Documentary evidence of experience/expertise for at least 3 years in respective field

–  Vocational qualifications in respective filed

  • Construction Sector/ICT/Engineering (for project basis): Covering Letter specifying the project on which the expatriate would be employed, Copy of Letter of award specifying completion date and value of project

 

Authorised Recruiting Agent

Additional Documents in respect of Bangladeshi workers

The recruitment of Bangladesh workers should be done through licensed recruitment agencies authorised by the Bangladeshi.

Additional documents in respect of Chinese Workers

Following an agreement signed between the People’s Republic of China and the Government of Mauritius, the recruitment of Chinese workers should be done through recruitment agencies authorised by the Chinese authorities.

 

mauritius work permitMauritius Work Permit Processing Time

How long does it take to process a work permit in Mauritius?

Generally, the processing time can take a few months with the lodging and accommodation permit proving to be particularly lengthy.  It can vary depending on several factors, including obtaining “permission in principle” and fulfilling various eligibility criteria. Additionally, the involvement of different government departments and the verification of documents can contribute to variations in processing times.

 

Additional Information

Requirements for Overseas Companies

If an overseas company wants to get Mauritius work permits for its employees, it must be incorporated as a foreign company under Mauritian Company Laws or open a Mauritian branch of its existing company.

Work and Residence Permits

Before coming to Mauritius, foreign workers need both a Mauritius Work Permit and a Residence Permit Mauritius. Employers should apply for both permits at the same time.

Renewing Your Work Permit

When renewing Mauritius Work Permits, employers need to inform about any changes in the employment contract. Some positions may require training a local counterpart.

Work Permit Details and Ratios

Mauritius Work Permits have a specific duration and cannot be transferred. The ratio of local to expatriate workers varies by sector.

 

Starting Your Work Permit Journey

Navigating the process of getting a Mauritius work permit involves understanding the law, meeting eligibility criteria, and submitting the right documents. TBI Mauritius is here to guide you through this journey. Rules can change, so it is a good idea to consult professionals before beginning the process of getting a Mauritius work permit.

 

What TBI Business Advisors can do for you:
  • We will have a Zoom/ Teams call or email exchange to understand your requirements.

  • We can assist with the finding and purchasing of property, and setting up of an entity to purchase through.

  • TBI will advise on the appropriate permit or visa for coming to Mauritius.

  • We will send a detailed proposal with clear costs, timeframes and explanations.
  • We will assemble the documents and make the application on your behalf.

  • If you need assistance with setting up companies whether as an investor or just creating a business here.

  • We can assist with relocation tasks such as helping with schools, accommodation, insurance, choosing locations.

  • The directors can act as Commissioner for Oaths.
  • We can assist with other business advice and can bring in law firms as and when required.

Please contact us via our website, via email to info@tbimauritius.com or via the form below.

While every effort is made to ensure that the information given is accurate, the information on this site does not contain legal, tax or any other professional advice. We accept no responsibility or liability due to any information or representation, whether accurate or not, relied upon in the contents. It is an information guide to provide the reader with a useful general, but basic understanding of the different considerations. You must seek local legal, tax or other professional advice before relying on the contents of this site.