Permanent Residence in Mauritius
Permanent Residence (PR) is the most secure form of residence status in Mauritius, granting you the indefinite right to live and work on the island. Unlike Occupation Permits — which are tied to specific business activities or employment — PR is independent of your economic activity. Once granted, you can change jobs, start new businesses, retire, or simply enjoy the lifestyle without affecting your residence status.
PR is issued by the Prime Minister's Office on the recommendation of the Passport and Immigration Office, and typically takes 3-6 months to process. It covers you and your family (spouse and dependent children).
Pathway 1: Real Estate Investment
The most straightforward route to permanent residence is through the purchase of residential property under an approved scheme. The minimum investment is USD 375,000 (or equivalent). Approved schemes include:
Property Development Scheme (PDS)
PDS developments are high-end residential projects approved by the Economic Development Board. They include luxury villas and apartments in prime locations, often with resort-style amenities (golf, beach access, spa, restaurants). Notable PDS developments include Anahita, Heritage Villas Valriche, Mont Choisy Le Parc, and Azuri. Prices range from USD 375,000 for apartments to several million for premium villas.
Smart City Scheme
Smart City developments are mixed-use urban projects that combine residential, commercial, and leisure components. They offer modern apartments and villas with smart technology, sustainable design, and integrated amenities. Investment of USD 375,000+ in a Smart City residential unit qualifies for permanent residence.
Ground+2 Apartments
Since 2016, foreign nationals can purchase apartments in buildings of at least two floors above ground level, subject to a minimum investment of MUR 6 million (approximately USD 130,000). However, this pathway grants a residence permit (not permanent residence). To qualify for PR through the Ground+2 scheme, the investment must meet the USD 375,000 threshold.
Pathway 2: Three-Year Occupation Permit
If you have held an Occupation Permit (as Investor, Professional, or Self-Employed) for 3 consecutive years, you can apply for Permanent Residence. This pathway is available to all OP categories and does not require real estate investment. Key requirements include:
- 3 consecutive years of valid Occupation Permit in Mauritius
- Good character (no criminal record, no pending proceedings)
- Demonstrable economic contribution to Mauritius (business activity, employment, or investment)
- Physical presence in Mauritius (you should have been residing in Mauritius for the majority of the 3-year period)
- Tax compliance (all tax returns filed and taxes paid)
Application Process
- Eligibility assessment — We review your residence history, economic activity, and compliance status to confirm eligibility
- Document preparation — We compile all required documents: passport, OP history, tax returns, police clearance, medical certificate, proof of economic activity, property purchase documents (if applicable)
- Application submission — We prepare and submit your PR application to the Passport and Immigration Office
- Review and interview — The authorities may conduct an interview and verify your documents. Processing typically takes 3-6 months
- PR certificate issuance — Upon approval, you receive your Permanent Residence certificate. You can then apply for a PR stamp in your passport
Benefits of Permanent Residence
Freedom of Activity
Work for any employer, start any business, change careers, or retire — all without affecting your residence status. No need to maintain a specific investment or employment to keep your permit.
Security and Stability
PR is indefinite (subject to renewal every 10 years, which is a formality for compliant residents). It provides long-term certainty for you and your family.
Tax Benefits
Continue enjoying all of Mauritius's tax advantages: 15% max income tax, 0% capital gains tax, 0% inheritance tax, and free repatriation of funds.
Pathway to Citizenship
PR is a prerequisite for naturalisation. After 5+ years of continuous residence (including time on OP), you may be eligible to apply for Mauritius citizenship.
Real Estate Investment Guide
| Scheme | Min Investment | Property Type | PR Eligible |
|---|---|---|---|
| PDS | USD 375,000 | Villas, apartments | Yes |
| Smart City | USD 375,000 | Apartments, villas | Yes |
| Ground+2 | MUR 6 million (~USD 130K) | Apartments | Yes (if USD 375K+) |
| R+2 (resale) | Market price | Apartments | Yes (if USD 375K+) |
For comprehensive information on buying property in Mauritius, see our real estate guide.
PR vs Occupation Permit: Key Differences
| Feature | Occupation Permit | Permanent Residence |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 10 years (renewable) | Indefinite (10-year renewal formality) |
| Work restriction | Tied to specific activity/employer | No restriction |
| Business requirement | Must maintain investment/employment | No ongoing requirement |
| Family coverage | Spouse + dependents | Spouse + dependents |
| Citizenship pathway | After 3 years (via PR) | After 5+ years of total residence |
Maintaining Your PR
Permanent Residence, while indefinite, requires periodic renewal (every 10 years). This is generally a formality for residents who:
- Continue to reside in Mauritius (or visit regularly)
- Maintain a clean criminal record
- Comply with all tax obligations
- Have not engaged in activities prejudicial to Mauritius
There is no minimum number of days you must spend in Mauritius each year to maintain PR, but extended absences (more than 2 years continuously) could theoretically affect renewal. In practice, most PR holders who visit at least annually have no issues with renewal.
Combining Business and PR
Many business owners combine their Investor Permit with a real estate purchase to secure PR from the outset. This provides immediate permanent residence while also establishing a business in Mauritius. The real estate investment and the business investment are separate — you need USD 375,000 for property AND USD 50,000 for the business.
Secure Your Permanent Residence
Sunibel Corporate Services provides comprehensive support for permanent residence applications — from eligibility assessment and document preparation to real estate guidance and application submission. Our experience with PR applications ensures a smooth and efficient process. Contact us to discuss your permanent residence pathway.