The Occupation Permit as Investor
The Occupation Permit (OP) as Investor is the most popular residence pathway for entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors relocating to Mauritius. Administered by the Economic Development Board (EDB), this permit allows you to establish and operate a business in Mauritius while enjoying the island's exceptional quality of life, favourable tax environment, and strategic location.
With a minimum investment of USD 50,000, you receive a 10-year renewable residence permit that covers you, your spouse, and your dependent children. After 3 consecutive years, you become eligible for permanent residence. This pathway provides a clear, well-defined route from temporary residence to long-term settlement in Mauritius.
Eligibility Requirements
Investment Requirement
You must invest a minimum of USD 50,000 (or equivalent in another freely convertible currency) in your Mauritius business. The investment must be:
- Transferred from abroad to a Mauritian bank account in the name of the company
- Documented by bank statements showing the transfer
- Used for legitimate business purposes (share capital, working capital, equipment, etc.)
The investment can take the form of share capital, shareholder loans, or a combination. It does not need to be made all at once — you can invest progressively, but the full amount should be transferred within 12 months of the permit being granted.
Company Registration
You must register a company in Mauritius through which you will conduct your business. This is typically a GBC or a domestic company, depending on your business activities and tax planning needs. The company must be registered before or simultaneously with the OP application.
Business Plan
Your application must include a detailed business plan demonstrating:
- The nature of the business activity
- Target markets and revenue projections
- Investment breakdown (how the USD 50,000+ will be used)
- Employment plans (number and type of employees)
- Value-add to the Mauritius economy
Personal Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity)
- Police clearance certificate from your country of residence (less than 6 months old)
- Medical certificate (standard health check)
- Proof of address in your current country
- CV/resume
- Bank reference letter
- Passport photos
Application Process
- Step 1: Initial Consultation — We assess your business project, recommend the optimal company structure, and advise on the investment approach. We confirm your eligibility and outline the timeline.
- Step 2: Company Incorporation — We register your Mauritius company with the Registrar of Companies. For GBCs, we also apply for the FSC license. We provide registered office, company secretary, and resident director services.
- Step 3: Document Preparation — We compile all required documents, including the business plan, investment proof, personal documents, and company documentation. We review everything for completeness and compliance.
- Step 4: EDB Application — We submit your Occupation Permit application to the EDB through their online portal. The application includes all supporting documents and the prescribed fee.
- Step 5: Processing — The EDB reviews your application, typically within 2-4 weeks. If additional information is required, we handle all queries and provide the necessary documentation.
- Step 6: Permit Issuance — Upon approval, your Occupation Permit is issued. You can then enter Mauritius (or if already in Mauritius, your status is formalised) and collect your permit card.
- Step 7: Investment Transfer — You transfer the USD 50,000 investment to your Mauritius company bank account. We assist with the bank transfer and documentation.
- Step 8: Settlement — We help you settle in Mauritius: accommodation, bank accounts, school enrollment, vehicle registration, and other practical matters.
Tax Benefits for Investor Permit Holders
As a Mauritius resident, you benefit from one of the most attractive tax regimes in the world:
| Tax Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Personal income tax | 0% – 15% | Progressive rates with exemptions. Max 15% on income above MUR 650,000 |
| Corporate tax (GBC) | 3% effective | 80% partial exemption on foreign-sourced income |
| Corporate tax (domestic) | 15% | Standard rate for domestic companies |
| Capital gains tax | 0% | No CGT on any asset class |
| Dividend withholding | 0% | No withholding on dividends |
| Inheritance tax | 0% | No estate duty, wealth tax, or gift tax |
Permitted Business Activities
The investor permit covers virtually all legitimate business activities. Popular sectors among investor permit holders include:
- International trade — Import/export, e-commerce, marketplace operations
- IT and technology — Software development, SaaS, digital marketing, web services
- Consulting — Management consulting, financial advisory, legal services
- Real estate — Property development, real estate agency, property management
- Manufacturing — Light manufacturing, food processing, garment production
- Financial services — Fund administration, corporate services (requires FSC license)
- Tourism and hospitality — Tour operator, accommodation, restaurant, events
- Education — Training centre, language school, online education
Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| EDB application fee | USD 500 |
| Company incorporation (domestic) | USD 500 – 1,500 |
| Company incorporation (GBC) | USD 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Business plan preparation | USD 500 – 2,000 |
| Sunibel service fee (OP application) | USD 1,500 – 3,000 |
| Minimum business investment | USD 50,000 |
Renewal and Permanent Residence
The Occupation Permit as Investor is renewable every 10 years, provided you continue to operate your business and maintain your investment. Renewal is a straightforward process requiring submission of financial statements, tax returns, and confirmation that the business is still operational.
After 3 consecutive years of holding an Occupation Permit, you become eligible for Permanent Residence. Permanent Residence grants you the indefinite right to live and work in Mauritius, regardless of whether you continue to hold an Occupation Permit. It also removes the investment requirement — you can sell your business or change activities without affecting your residence status.
Common Questions
Can I work for my own company only?
Yes, the investor permit is tied to the company in which you have invested. You work as the director or manager of that company. You cannot be employed by another company under this permit category.
What if my business does not generate profit immediately?
The EDB understands that new businesses take time to become profitable. There is no minimum revenue or profit requirement. However, you must demonstrate that the business is genuinely operating and that you have made the required investment.
Can I hold multiple companies?
Yes. You can own and operate multiple companies in Mauritius. Your Occupation Permit is linked to the primary company in which you made the USD 50,000 investment, but you can serve as director of additional entities.
Combine Investor Permit with GBC
Many investor permit holders set up a GBC to benefit from the 3% effective tax rate on international income. The GBC can be the same entity in which you make your investment, or a separate entity. Our team can advise on the optimal structure for your specific situation.
Start Your Investor Permit Application
Sunibel Corporate Services provides end-to-end support for investor permit applications — from initial consultation and company formation to EDB application and settlement assistance. Our experience with hundreds of successful applications ensures a smooth and efficient process. Contact us to get started.