The Occupation Permit (OP) under the Self‑Employed is a combined work and residence permit for non‑citizens who operate solo businesses in the service sector in Mauritius. It applies to non-citizens registered under the Business Registration Act or operating as a one‑person company.
Key benefits of the Self‑Employed Occupation Permit in Mauritius
This permit is valid for ten years, with renewals subject to meeting defined income criteria. The route offers a clear path to a 20‑year Permanent Residence Permit when higher income thresholds are met.
Eligibility criteria of Self‑Employed Occupation Permit in Mauritius
Applicants must invest USD 50,000 or equivalent in a freely convertible currency and engage only in service activities. Applicants must provide a certified foreign bank statement and commit to transfer the funds to a Mauritian bank within 60 days of permit issuance. Applicants must also submit at least three letters of intent, including two from potential local clients.
Income targets
Business income must reach at least MUR 750,000 from year one and grow to a cumulative MUR 6,000,000 by year five. From year six onward, renewal requires at least MUR 1,500,000 in annual business income. These targets drive both compliance and long‑term renewals.
Duration and rights
The Self‑Employed Occupation Permit is issued for up to ten years and is renewable if criteria remain satisfied. Self‑employed holders may employ one local administrative staff member to assist the business. Rights remain tied to the approved business scope and compliance.
Sector approvals
Activities in regulated sectors require prior approvals or professional registrations before starting operations. Examples include banking, global business, tourism, engineering, and health professions under their respective councils and regulators. Evidence of registration or licensing may be required at application or within set timelines.
Dependents of a Self‑Employed Occupation Permit in Mauritius
Spouses, common‑law partners of the opposite sex, parents, and unmarried dependent children qualify for a residence permit as dependents. Dependent permits cannot exceed the main holder’s validity, and dependents cannot work unless they secure their own permit.
Switching and cancellation
Switching from other categories requires a cancellation letter and compliance with any non‑compete obligations when applicable. If the holder cancels or deregisters, the authorities must be informed immediately and original permits returned. After cancellation, the individual must depart within the period set by the immigration authority.
Monitoring and compliance
Authorities may conduct site visits and seek information to verify adherence to income and operational criteria. Non‑compliant permit holders may be deregistered and have permits cancelled by the immigration office. Timely tax filings and adherence to licensing conditions are essential elements of compliance.
From a Self‑Employed Occupation Permit to a Permanent Residence Permit pathway
A Self‑Employed Occupation Permit holder in Mauritius may qualify for a 20‑year Permanent Residence Permit after at least five years. Eligibility requires annual business income of MUR 3,000,000 for five consecutive years or an aggregate MUR 15,000,000 over five consecutive years. Applications must be filed within six months of meeting the criteria.
After approval actions
Applicants must enter Mauritius with an appropriate visa and complete medicals locally before permit issuance. All required originals must be produced at the appointment for registration and permit printing. Keep visa status valid while any appeal or finalization is pending.
Data and targets summary for a Self‑Employed Occupation Permit in Mauritius
Use the following at‑a‑glance summary to plan compliance and renewals.
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Initial investment | USD 50,000 in services sector only, transferred within 60 days. |
| Client pipeline | Three letters of intent, including two local. |
| Year 1 income | Minimum MUR 750,000. |
| Years 1–5 cumulative | Minimum MUR 6,000,000. |
| Renewal from year 6 | Minimum MUR 1,500,000 per year. |
| Permit duration | Up to 10 years, renewable. |
| Staff | One local administrative staff allowed. |
| Permit fee | USD 1,000. |
| Dependent fee | USD 400 per dependent. |
Why choose Renesis Financial Services?
Renesis is a privately owned, independent Management Company licensed by the Financial Services Commission of Mauritius since 2013.
The team delivers end‑to‑end guidance for Self‑Employed Occupation Permits, from eligibility to renewal.
Applications align with current EDB requirements and recent Occupation Permit policy updates for full compliance.
Comprehensive support
- Initial eligibility assessment tailored to the Self‑Employed category requirements.
- Business plan preparation and letters‑of‑intent coaching for service‑sector positioning.
- Document collation, formatting, and quality review against official checklists.
- Application submission and follow‑up on the National E‑Licensing System.
- Appointment readiness, originals verification, and post‑approval onboarding steps.
- Ongoing compliance monitoring and renewal planning from year six onward.
- PRP pathway mapping and tax coordination for long‑term residency goals.
Experience that delivers
Renesis has served entrepreneurs, funds, and corporates across regulated and non‑regulated sectors since 2013.
The team tracks OP reforms and budget changes to keep files current and approval‑ready.
Beyond immigration
Clients can add company formation, trusts, fund administration, accounting, and secretarial support with one partner.
This integrated model speeds banking, governance, and cross‑border structuring for sustainable growth.
Get started
Book a meeting by clicking here, or request a tailored Self‑Employed OP consultation.
Email contact@renesis.mu or WhatsApp us.