Invest

The Investor Permit allows foreign nationals to live and work in Mauritius while establishing and managing a business with a minimum qualifying investment (typically from USD 50,000, depending on the chosen option).

Designed for entrepreneurs and business owners, it offers long‑term residency in a stable, pro‑business environment and the ability to operate locally and internationally. Applicants invest in an EDB‑approved activity, apply online via the National Electronic Licensing System and submit supporting documents such as proof of funds and a business plan.

The permit is generally issued for up to 10 years and is renewable subject to meeting turnover and operational criteria; sustained turnover performance over five consecutive years can open a pathway to a 20‑year Permanent Residence Permit. Holders can live and work in Mauritius, run their business, hire local and foreign staff, and benefit from the country’s favourable tax and business regime, although certain activities may require additional sector‑specific licences or clearances.

Mauritius, through the Economic Development Board (EDB), offers three investor permit routes designed for different levels of capital and business maturity.

1. Standard investment route (USD 50,000)

This is the most common option for entrepreneurs establishing a new local or international business.

Initial capital: Minimum transfer of USD 50,000 (or equivalent) into a Mauritian corporate bank account.
Turnover requirement: Cumulative turnover of MUR 20 million over the first five years, with at least MUR 1.5 million in year one.

2. High‑capital investment route (USD 100,000)

This route targets investors with greater upfront liquidity who prefer more flexible turnover thresholds.

Initial capital: Minimum investment of USD 100,000 (or equivalent in freely convertible currency).
Turnover requirement: Cumulative turnover of MUR 15 million over the first five years, with a minimum of MUR 1 million in year one.

3. Innovative start‑up route (zero minimum capital)

This is a forward‑looking regime aimed at IP‑rich and R&D‑driven ventures in technology and innovation.

Financial requirement: No mandatory initial cash investment.
Qualifying criteria: Approval based on either (i) submission of an innovative project to the EDB, or (ii) registration with an incubator accredited by the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC).
Operational focus: During the research phase, R&D expenditure must represent at least 20% of total operating costs.

The innovative start‑up pathway

The innovative start‑up pathway is driven by the strength of your concept rather than the size of your initial capital, making it particularly suitable for developers, researchers and fintech founders. How to qualify: • Project submission You must submit a robust business plan to the EDB that clearly demonstrates genuine scientific, technological or innovative advancement and details your R&D roadmap and commercialisation strategy. • Incubator partnership Alternatively, partnering with an incubator accredited by the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) offers a de facto fast‑track, as these incubators help validate the project and support regulatory and compliance readiness. • High‑growth sectors Priority is generally given to projects in high‑impact fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Blue Economy, biotechnology and renewable energy, which align with Mauritius’ long‑term innovation and sustainability agenda.

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