Investor Occupation Permit Mauritius 2026 is the pathway that allows foreign investors to live and work in Mauritius while operating an eligible business. If you are considering Mauritius as your base for business and residence, this permit can support your long-term plans for you and your family.
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The permit is issued for an initial period of 10 years and is renewable, subject to meeting ongoing business performance requirements.
If you are a foreign investor considering Mauritius as your base for business and residence, the Investor Occupation Permit is an important pathway. It allows you to live and work in Mauritius while operating an eligible business and, in many cases, can support your long-term plans for you and your family.
This guide explains the 2026 Investor Occupation Permit requirements — including investment thresholds, processing timelines, and the document checklist — so you can plan your application with confidence.
What Is an Investor Occupation Permit?
An Investor Occupation Permit is a combined residence and work permit issued by the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Mauritius.
It allows a non-citizen to establish and operate an eligible business in Mauritius and live in Mauritius for the duration of the permit. Depending on the circumstances, spouse and children may also qualify as dependants.
Client Review
I cannot recommend Nina Bagha highly enough. She accompanied me throughout the process of obtaining my Investor Occupation Permit in Mauritius, and her support made an enormous difference.
Nina is extremely professional, patient and genuinely committed to her clients. She provided clear guidance at every stage, was always available to answer my questions, and ensured the process was as smooth as possible. Her knowledge, reliability and personal involvement gave me complete confidence.
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Every investor's circumstances are different. Our Mauritius-based team can help you understand your options and guide you through the Occupation Permit process.
Contact DNB HR Associates →Investor Occupation Permit Mauritius-What Has Changed in 2026?
The rules for the Investor Occupation Permit have changed significantly in 2026. Applicants should review the current requirements carefully rather than relying on older information published online.
The most significant change is the increase in the minimum investment threshold from USD 50,000 to USD 100,000 for the standard investor route. This applies to new applications submitted under the 2026 framework.
The updated framework also introduced revised business turnover requirements that must be met at specific milestones during the permit period, and extended the holding period relevant to permanent residence.
These changes mean that older guides — many of which still reference the USD 50,000 threshold — can no longer be relied upon. A current assessment of your project against the 2026 criteria is essential before you commit to an application.
Read the full 2026 requirements and comparison →
What Has Changed in 2026?
Investor Occupation Permit Mauritius Application Process
The Mauritius Investor Occupation Permit application involves several stages, beginning with preparation of the applicant’s personal and business documentation and continuing through the EDB review and NELS submission process.
Once the application is approved in principle, the applicant must complete the required procedures in Mauritius before the final permit is issued.
Typical processing time:
Document preparation: 2–4 weeks
EDB review and Approval in Principle: 15–20 working days from complete submission
Travel to Mauritius for in-person procedures: within 90 days of approval
Final permit issuance: 5–10 working days after in-person procedures
In practice, applicants should allow 2–4 months from start to finish, assuming documents are complete and accurate. Incomplete submissions are the most common cause of delay.
Useful Links
Investor Occupation Permit Mauritius Document Checklist
Preparing the correct documents before submission can help avoid unnecessary delays. Depending on the applicant and business structure, documentation may include:
Personal documents: passport, birth certificate, police clearance certificate, medical certificate, passport-sized photographs, and curriculum vitae.
Financial documents: proof of funds showing the required investment, source of funds documentation, and a bank reference letter.
Corporate documents (if incorporating a company): certificate of incorporation, constitution, shareholder register, registered office address in Mauritius, and board resolution appointing directors.
Business plan: description of business activity, market analysis, 3–5 year financial projections, and evidence of the turnover trajectory required to meet the Year 3 and Year 5 targets.
Your specific requirements may vary depending on your proposed business activity and personal circumstances.
View the complete document checklist →
Investor Permit Mauritius: Path to Long-Term Residence
For investors planning to remain in Mauritius for the long term, the Occupation Permit should not be viewed only as an initial immigration application.
Business performance, permit renewal requirements and the conditions applicable to permanent residence should all be considered when developing the business plan from the beginning.
Under the 2026 framework, applicants should be aware that:
The permit is issued for 10 years and is renewable subject to business performance.
To qualify for permanent residence, the permit must be held for 5 years (increased from the previous 3-year period).
Permanent residence typically requires meeting specified turnover thresholds, either through annual turnover of MUR 15 million over 3 consecutive years or aggregate turnover of MUR 75 million over the same period.
Planning for these requirements from the outset — rather than after the permit is issued — is essential for a smooth path to long-term residence.
Understand the path to permanent residence →
How To Apply: NELS, CBRIS and BRN
How to Apply: NELS, CBRIS, and BRN Explained
Before submitting your Investor Occupation Permit application through the Economic Development Board, you must complete two foundational steps that involve separate Mauritian systems.
1. Register your company on CBRIS
The Companies and Businesses Registration Integrated System (CBRIS) is where you incorporate your Mauritian company. This must be completed before you can apply for the Occupation Permit.2. Obtain your BRN Certificate
After CBRIS registration, you receive your Business Registration Number (BRN) certificate. This is a required document for your EDB application.3. Submit through NELS
The National Electronic Licensing System (NELS) is the portal where your Occupation Permit application is filed with the EDB. All supporting documents, including your BRN certificate, are uploaded through this system.Understanding how these three systems connect — CBRIS for registration, BRN as your business identifier, and NELS for the permit application — can save considerable time and prevent avoidable delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the Investor Occupation Permit Mauritius application process.
Can I apply for the Investor Occupation Permit from abroad?
Yes. The initial application process can be started remotely through the NELS portal. However, applicants must travel to Mauritius to complete the required in-person procedures within 90 days of receiving Approval in Principle.
What are the main requirements for the Investor Permit in 2026?
The 2026 requirements include a minimum investment of USD 100,000 for the standard route, a viable business plan, and the required personal and corporate documentation. The business must also meet specified turnover targets at Year 3 and Year 5 to support renewal.
Can my spouse and children be included in my application?
Yes. Your spouse and eligible children may qualify as dependants under the applicable Mauritius immigration rules.
How long does the Investor Occupation Permit application take?
Processing time depends on the completeness of the application, but applicants should allow 2–4 months from start to finish. The EDB typically issues Approval in Principle within 15–20 working days of a complete submission. Incomplete documentation is the most common cause of delay.
What happens if my Investor Permit application is refused?
A refusal does not necessarily mean that another pathway is unavailable. The reasons for the decision should be reviewed carefully before considering the appropriate next step. In some cases, a different permit category or a revised business plan may be more suitable.
Other Client Reviews
“Very professional, responsive and knowledgeable. The whole process was well explained and handled smoothly. Highly recommended.”
Xavier.P- Investor, France“Excellent service and support from start to finish. DNB made what could have been a complex process simple and clear.”
John,M - Investor, United KingdomEligibility Check
What best describes your current position?
A guided assessment built around your real plans
The DNB assessment turns broad ambitions—such as moving, working or starting a business in Mauritius—into a clearer starting point for the right permit conversation.
Investor, Professional, Self-Employed, Retired Non-Citizen and Young Professional.
Your answers shape the pathway direction and the next factors to explore.
Designed for people who do not yet know the technical permit terminology.
Use the result to explore the right route or request confidential DNB guidance.
Nina Bagha
Nina Bagha Founder & Director, DNB HR Associates Ltd Nina Bagha is the Founder and Director of DNB HR Associates Ltd, a Mauritius-based HR consultancy providing human resource, business setup and immigration support services. Through DNB HR Associates, she works with international investors, professionals and businesses seeking to establish or expand their presence in Mauritius, including support with company setup and Occupation Permit applications. Learn more about DNB HR Associates →
Need Personalised Advice?
Every investor's circumstances are different. Our Mauritius-based team can help you understand your available options and guide you through the Occupation Permit process.
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