In 2022, Mauritius ranked among the best remote working destinations in the world.
The Government’s Budget announced in June 2024 makes working on the island even more appealing for freelancers, young graduates, and those seeking permanent full-time employment. These are some ways the government is increasing its commitment to ensuring a conducive environment for job creation and investment, addressing both immediate and long-term challenges while promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.
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Changes to occupation permits 2024/2025
The threshold for occupation permits for professionals is now MUR22,500, from the previous MUR30,000.
Professionals with a minimum of 10 years of experience can obtain a three-month temporary occupation permit, enabling them to work while awaiting final approval.
A 10-year expert occupation permit aims to attract foreign talents in wealth management, family offices, virtual assets, and virtual tokens.
Retired noncitizens with residence permits can work without additional work or occupation permits.
Delivery and renewal of work permits will be within three weeks.
Status quo
An occupation permit allows foreigners to live and work on the island. There are different categories with their own rules.
The 12-month Premium Travel Visa allows digital nomads to live in Mauritius while they work remotely, meaning their livelihood is not derived from the country’s labour market.
International students who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree as a minimum from a recognised higher education institution in Mauritius are eligible to apply for a Young Professional Occupation Permit (YPOP). The YPOP is valid for up to three years, depending on the timespan of the employment contract. It’s up to the employer to apply for the permit via the Economic Development Board (EDB) at op@edbmauritius.org. If they want to extend the employment term, they can apply for a Professional Occupation Permit. The employer must apply for the YPOP within six months of the publication of the results. However, this stipulation falls away if the employee already has the YPOP and wants to change jobs before the permit expires.
The Ministry of Labour, Human Resource Development, and Training issues work permits for blue-collar jobs. Expats must contact the right person to obtain the right credentials.
If you’re self-employed and want to continue freelancing, apply for the Self-Employed Occupation Permit. You must provide evidence of fund transfer within four weeks of obtaining your permit, with subsequent verifications, without having to invest USD35,000.
Visit labour.govmu.org to learn more about workers’ rights. The minimum wage for a fulltime employee is MUR17,000 per month.
Where to work in Mauritius
The Mauritian economy is a service economy, with the largest employers in the information and communication technologies (ICT), financial services, textile, and tourism sectors. Digital marketing experts, web developers, and finance and FinTech experts are in demand. However, you must have a rare skill if you are to secure a job above a local applicant, as they are given preference.
Until recently, the ICT, agro-food industry, creative industry, education, financial services, freeport and logistics, health and wellness, life sciences (pharmaceutical sector), manufacturing, marine economy, real estate and hospitality, renewable energy and the sports economy have offered tremendous work opportunities. This status quo is likely to continue, with increased emphasis on sustainable energy and the ocean industry, following the Budget 2024/2025 announcement.
The Cote d’Or Data Technology Park project and its 12 specialised centres will create many jobs in ICT. It is good news if you have technical training in sustainable technologies and advanced sciences, for example. R&D opportunities are growing in the pharmaceutical sector as the government incentivises companies specialising in life sciences. Moreover, the financial services sector holds increasing potential since the introduction of new financial products. Teachers and lecturers are in demand, with the government’s intention to establish Mauritius as a centre of higher education, reaching 100,000 international students. Growth in construction and real estate means opportunities in construction and property management.
Sectors with potential
Removal of quotas and fast-tracking the delivery and renewal of work permits in agriculture, manufacturing, and ICT will address labour shortages and enhance productivity.
The introduction of an agri-voltaic scheme and subsidies to promote solar energy puts the spotlight on addressing the impact of climate change.
New initiatives are being taken to restore coastlines, promote sustainable villages, and implement a national coral reef restoration programme.
High-demand jobs in Mauritius
The Mauritian labour market has gaps due to economic growth and a shortage of graduates. The government is welcoming foreign talent to fill these roles, with a focus on ongoing development.
Opportunities span various industries, with specific high-demand roles including:
Digital marketers are vital for improving ROI, brand awareness, and online traffic. Their roles include social media management, content creation, and graphic design.
Web developers and IT specialists are essential for creating optimised websites and supporting business growth as businesses expand their online presence.
Civil engineers are crucial for building infrastructure such as bridges and roads. They are in high demand due to a construction boom and a shortage of skilled workers.
Masonry, plumbing, and electrical trades are also in high demand.
Personal care assistants are needed to provide home-based care for the elderly and people with disabilities. Certification and a diploma are typically required.
Accountants are always in demand. Mauritius’s growth as an international financial centre has increased opportunities in this sector.
Help is at hand to smooth the process
Relocating to Mauritius can be a significant step, so using a relocation company can simplify the process. These companies offer services to ease your job search and transition, including:
Matching your skills with suitable vacancies
Assisting with applications and answering your questions
Connecting you with potential employers.
Those looking to live and work in Mauritius will be motivated by travel costs and accessibility, local prices, health and safety, remote working opportunities, social life and climate.
Six more reasons to make the move
Work-life balance and infrastructure
Mauritius offers a balanced work-life environment supported by advanced infrastructure, making it an ideal location for maximising business productivity and leisure time.
Economic, political, and legal stability
The island is renowned for its economic, political, and legal stability. Mauritius provides comprehensive financial and legal services as a respected financial services centre and banking jurisdiction. As a result, it has a high-end infrastructure to support global business needs and an extensive international professional services community.
Remote work support
Mauritius offers exceptional support for remote work, featuring:
Reliable ICT connectivity, including a high-capacity undersea fibre-optic network linking Africa, Asia, and Europe via the Middle East
Global connectivity
Major airlines such as Emirates, British Airways, Air Mauritius, Air France, Austrian Airlines, and Turkish Airlines operate frequent flights to Mauritius, making the country easily accessible.
Ideal time zone and business environment
The island’s world-class connectivity, banking facilities, office spaces, and strategic time zone make it perfect for remote work with Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Housing options
Mauritius offers many long-stay rental accommodations, including serviced apartments and beachside homes. Additionally, residents can purchase property, including luxury villas, penthouses, apartments, and duplexes, under specific investment programmes.
Mauritius is a prime location for individuals seeking to harmonise their professional and personal lives in a supportive and well-connected environment.
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