Mauritius has refined the pathway for digital nomads with its Mauritius digital nomad visa, also known under the name Premium Travel Visa.
Launched in October 2020, this visa invites digital nomads, along with travelers and retirees, to enjoy the island while working remotely.
Valid for one year and renewable, the visa is accessible to applicants from 114 countries.
Let’s now have a look at its specificities, requirements and application process.
Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa – Key Points Explained
Looking for more information on the Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa ? Here you’ll find a concise guide to understand its core facets.
The digital nomad visa Mauritius offers remote workers the chance to immerse in Mauritius’ culture and scenic landscapes while maintaining their work commitments.
With a hassle-free application process and the liberty to bring family members, this visa stands out for its simplicity and inclusivity. It is valid for one year and can even be renewed.
Let’s have a closer look at its features.
Is It Hard To Get Digital Nomad Visa For Mauritius ?
If you wish to secure a digital nomad visa for Mauritius, then be prepared for a pretty straightforward process.
The Mauritius remote work visa is, unlike some destinations where the criteria can be stringent, very accessible to most remote workers.
If you want to know how Mauritius compares to other countries, have a look at our comprehensive guide on countries with digital nomad visas.
Digital Nomad Visa Mauritius Types
Looking for the different options to work and live in Mauritius as a digital nomad ?
There are several types of visas available. Mauritius offers two visa types for digital nomads who want to settle on the island.
If you want to know what a digital nomad visa entails and its variations, here’s an article about what a digital nomad visa is.
Premium Travel Visa
The Premium Travel Visa is the top choice for digital nomad Mauritius aspirants.
Specifically designed for digital nomads, retirees, long-term tourists and other professionals, this visa offers a one-year stay with multiple entry and is extendable upon expiration.
This means you’ll be able to freely travel in and out of Mauritius and explore the region.
The application process is online and requires basic documentation :
- a valid passport
- return ticket
- accommodation proof
- health and travel insurance
This visa comes with a very accessible income requirement and incurs no application fee. Approvals are also generally quick.
Tourist Visa
If you’re not eligible for the Premium Travel Visa, the Tourist Visa may be an alternative route.
This option is particularly relevant for residents of countries not covered under the Premium Travel Visa scheme. And after you secure your tourist visa and arrive in Mauritius, it then becomes possible to pursue the Premium Travel Visa.
The Tourist Visa allows for a stay of up to six months, so it’s ideal for short-term visits or as a stepping stone to a longer stay.
Requirements are straightforward and this visa is also free of charge. Approvals are usually granted within five business days.
Of course, if you have the chance to be eligible, the Premium Travel visa remains a top choice as it’s been specifically designed for digital nomads.
Digital Nomad Visa Mauritius Requirements & Eligibility
You must meet some requirements and eligibility criteria to apply for the Mauritius Premium Visa.
The process to Mauritius visa apply online is user-friendly so you should have no difficulty.
Here are the key requirements for eligibility :
- You must come from an eligible country (Go to this link, scroll to the FAQs section, and click on the question “Who is eligible?” to see the entire list). Mauritius visa for US citizens is available.
- You must possess a valid passport for the duration of your stay.
- You have to be employed or run a business outside Mauritius.
- You must earn a minimum monthly income of $1500 per month, with an additional $500 for each dependent or family member under 24.
- You have to subscribe to comprehensive travel and health insurance for the entirety of your stay. Your international medical insurance must cover both you and your dependents.
- You’ll have to show proof of your long-term accommodation plans in Mauritius : rental agreement, hotel booking or a letter of sponsorship if staying with a local for example.
- You must not seek employment in Mauritius or compete with local businesses.
Mauritius Remote Work Visa Income Requirements
The work visa in Mauritius for digital nomads stipulates financial prerequisites to ensure you’ll be able to sustain your lifestyle while residing on the island.
You will have to demonstrate a minimum monthly income of $1500. Plus, you’ll have to prove it through payslips or client contracts.
This criterion is actually way more accessible than many other digital nomad visas. It will allow you to cover your expenses and live comfortably.
Apply For Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa With These Documents
Here’s a straightforward checklist to ensure you have everything you need to apply :
- Online application form : complete the application form available on the official Mauritius government visa portal.
- Passport copy : a copy of the biometric data page of your current, valid passport.
- Passport size photo : make sure it meets the standard passport photo requirements.
- Airline ticket : a copy of your airline ticket, including a return ticket if your stay extends beyond six months. If you need an onward ticket and don’t want to spend money on a real one, services like Onward Ticket will allow you to make a genuine reservation at a very low cost.
- Travel and health insurance : proof of health insurance policy covering the entire duration of your stay. Mandatory for both the applicant and any accompanying dependents.
- Letter of accommodation : hotel booking, lease, rental agreement or a letter of sponsorship if staying with a local. This last will have to include proof of address and ID or residence permit from the sponsor.
- Proof of funds : recent bank statements from the last three months or proof of a stable monthly income of at least $1500 to meet the minimum income requirements.
- Proof of dependents : if applicable, provide marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children, and a letter of consent when accompanied by one parent only.
Not Eligible for Mauritius Premium Visa – What to Do ?
If you find your country is not listed among those eligible for the Mauritius Premium Visa, don’t be discouraged.
Mauritius has made provisions to ensure you can still live and work on the island. For nationals from countries not included in the eligibility list, the best solution is to enter the country with a tourist visa and then submit a Premium visa application locally.
Please follow this link, scroll down to the FAQs section, and click on the question “Who is eligible?” to view the complete list.
Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa Application Process Step By Step
Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply for the Mauritius digital nomad visa :
- Pre-book your flight and accommodation. Make you have pre-booked your flight to Mauritius along with your accommodation for the stay. You will indeed need proof of a return or onward ticket and accommodation arrangements. For this step you might want to use a dummy ticket so you don’t spend hundreds of dollars on a flight ticket you’re not even sure you want to use.
- Fill out the online application form. Access the online application form on the Mauritius Business Licensing Platform website. You’ll need to input personal details, contact information and travel plans, along with uploading the necessary documents.
- Receive your visa document via email. After you submit your application, the Passport and Immigration Office will process it within 48 hours. Keep an eye on your email for notification. If approved, you’ll receive your visa document electronically, which you should print out and carry with you. In case of a denial, you will be informed of the reasons.
- Arrive in Mauritius. With your visa document, passport, return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, proof of income and health and travel insurance in hand, present these documents at the immigration counter upon arrival. You’ll be allowed to enter the country and start your up-to-one-year stay as a digital nomad.
Renewal Process Digital Nomad Visas In Mauritius
Digital nomads who whish to extend their stay beyond the initial one-year period must reapply online.
You’ll have to submit updated documents and make sure you still meet all the requirements. We would advise you to apply a few weeks before your initial visa expires.
How Long Is Digital Nomad Visa For Mauritius Valid For?
The Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa is valid for a period of one year from the date of issue.
This extended validity period is great if you seek a longer-term relocation to Mauritius. Furthermore, you’ll also have the option to renew your visa if you wish to extend your stay.
Digital Nomad Visa Mauritius Cost
It’s one of the most appealing aspects of the Digital Nomad Visa Mauritius : its cost, or rather the lack thereof.
The visa is offered free of charge, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to explore new locales while continuing your professional activities.
This no-cost approach is actually very rare with digital nomad visas, so it’s worth mentioning it !
Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa Tax To Expect
Mauritius remote worker visa comes with very advantageous tax implications. Initially, you are exempt from paying local taxes on income earned outside of Mauritius as long as it’s deposited into a foreign bank account.
However, should your stay extend beyond this period, you transition to tax residency status in Mauritius and become liable for local taxes on your global income at a flat rate of 15 %.
How Long You Wait To Get Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa
Applications are usually reviewed and processed within 48 hours. This rapid turnaround time is also a big advantage compared to many other digital nomad visas.
However, we would still recommend applying well in advance as you never know what could happen. A small mistake in your application and you’re good to start all over again.
Bringing Family With You
The Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa extends its hospitality to include the applicants as well as their families.
Note that if you bring your family members or dependents along, you are required to demonstrate the financial capability to support their stay, with an additional income requirement of $500 for each dependent.
You’ll also have to provide marriage or birth certificates.
Cost Of Living In Mauritius
If you’re considering living in Mauritius, you’ll find that the cost can vary based on your chosen area, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Generally, Mauritius offers a moderate cost of living compared to many Western countries.
Here’s a breakdown of some common expenses you might encounter.
| Accommodation | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | 500 to 800 € / $550 to $880 |
| Buy | From 60000 € / From $66000 |
| Hotels | 80 to 150 € / $88 to $165 |
| BnB | 50 to 100 € / $55 to $110 |
| Food | Cost |
|---|---|
| Restaurant | 10 to 20 € / $11 to $22 |
| Groceries | 200 to 400 € / $220 to $440 /month/pers |
| Fast Food | 5 to 10 € / $5,50 to $11 |
| Transports | Cost |
|---|---|
| Bus | Around 1,50 € / $1,65 per trip |
| Taxi | Around 1,5 € / $1,65 per km |
| Car rental | 30 to 60 € / $33 to $66 per day |
| Leisure | Cost |
|---|---|
| Day excursion | 50 to 100 € / $55 to $110 |
| Nightlife | 10 to 20 € / $11 to $22 |
| Museum / attractions | 5 to 10 € / $5,50 to $11 |
| Outdoor activities | 30 to 60 € / $33 to $66 |
You can also check the cost of living in Mauritius here.
Is There Digital Banking In Mauritius
Many local banks like Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB), State Bank of Mauritius (SBM) and AfrAsia Bank provide comprehensive digital banking solutions.
These services include online banking, mobile apps for managing accounts on the go and tools to track expenses and payments. Most of these banks have apps which will perfectly add up to your best apps for business travel.
Which VPN Works Best In Mauritius For Digital Nomads ?
Looking for an easy way to secure your connections while working online in Mauritius ?
Then you might want to seek a reliable and secure VPN service. ExpressVPN is a top choice for that.
Renowned for its fast connection speeds, security features and extensive network of servers, it ensures access to geo-restricted content and safeguarded online activity.
Popular Digital Nomad Hotspots (Cities) In Mauritius
Not sure where exactly to settle while traveling under your Mauritius digital nomad visa ?
Here are some of the best hotspots we found on the island.
- The capital of Mauritius, Port Louis, is a popular hub for digital nomads due to its modern amenities and dynamic lifestyle. The city boasts many coworking spaces, high-speed internet and a bustling market scene. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to work and explore.
- Grand Baie is renowned for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and numerous restaurants. It’s a top choice if you seek a balance between work and leisure. You’ll probably fall in love with its relaxed atmosphere. Grand Baie also boasts reliable internet and many accommodation options.
- Known for its stunning beach and crystal-clear waters, Flic en Flac is another favorite among digital nomads. The area provides a very relaxed environment for productivity, along with many leisure activities like snorkeling and sunset cruises.
- Less known, Tamarin is a good option if you’re looking for a more peaceful environment to live and work. Famous for its surf spots and scenic views, it offers a laid-back lifestyle with all the facilities you might need for your remote work.
Are There Coworking Communities In Mauritius
Wishing to use your Mauritius nomad visa to meet some like-minded entrepreneurs ?
Here are the best coworking communities in Mauritius.
Port Louis
In Port Louis, Mauritius digital nomad visa holders will find a thriving coworking community.
Spaces like Activ Solutions and Coworking Mauritius offer dynamic environments for collaboration and networking. These hubs are perfect for digital nomads looking to connect with like-minded workers.
Grand Baie
Grand Baie is not just a tourist paradise ; it’s also a growing center for coworking communities. If you’re traveling on a Mauritius travel visa, you might want to visit some coworking spaces like CocoWork.
We absolutely love this coworking community as it comes with high-speed internet, comfortable workstations and, most of all, a location very close to the Pereybere beach !
Saint-Pierre
Though smaller compared to Mauritius’ major cities, Saint-Pierre is emerging as a cozy destination for digital nomads under the Mauritius premium visa program.
It hosts intimate coworking spaces like The Hive, not far from Port Louis.
Is Mauritius Safe For Digital Nomads?
Mauritius is a safe destination for digital nomads. It boasts a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Of course, like with any travel, it’s always more prudent to have travel insurance in case of unforeseen circumstances.
You might want to consider comparing two of the most popular options in this sector : SafetyWing and World Nomads. This way you’ll find coverage that best suits your needs while abroad. Check out SafetyWing vs World Nomads comparison to make your decision.
Final Pros & Benefits
As a digital nomad Mauritius, you’ll find the destination comes with a host of pros and benefits.
From the island’s stunning landscapes and welcoming local culture to its good internet infrastructure and affordable living costs, Mauritius offers an interesting backdrop for remote work.
Also, the Mauritius freelancer visa is actually pretty easy to obtain as the minimum income requirement is quite accessible. Plus you’ll find on the island a more and more developing coworking community.
Few Drawbacks To Have In Mind
The Mauritius digital nomad lifestyle offers many advantages, yes, but there are also a few drawbacks to consider.
- The island’s remote location means longer flights if you’re traveling from far-off countries. So travel plans and expenses might be a little challenging.
- Also, the limited size of the island might also lead to a sense of isolation for some Mauritius freelance workers.
- You might find yourself a bit bored after some time, especially if you’re used to big cities.
3 Alternative Countries With Similar Requirements We Recommend
Having second thoughts about the Mauritius digital nomad visa?
Explore alternative destinations with comparable requirements that could align with your interests.
South Africa
South Africa is becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its South Africa freelance visa.
With its dynamic cultural scene, breathtaking landscapes and a relatively low cost of living, South Africa is great if you wish to live an adventure in a dynamic work environment.
Sri Lanka
The country is known for its stunning beaches, historical ruins and welcoming culture.
Launched during 2024, the visa for digital nomads in Sri Lanka will cater to remote workers looking for a tropical setting to work remotely. We love its beautiful landscapes and spiritual sites.
Thailand
A great choice if you love idyllic beaches ! Thailand has long been a favorite among digital nomads, and the introduction of the Thailand digital remote work visa further solidifies its status.
It’s the perfect destination if your priority is to find a place that offers balance between work and leisure.
FAQs
Does Mauritius offer a digital nomad visa ?
Yes, Mauritius provides a Premium Travel Visa specifically for digital nomads. It allows a renewable one-year stay.
Why is the Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa better than a tourist visa ?
It permits a longer stay and legal work, unlike the tourist visa, which is tailored for short visits without work rights.
Do digital nomads pay tax in Mauritius ?
No, for stays up to 183 days, digital nomads are exempt from paying tax on foreign-earned income in Mauritius.
Does Mauritius have a community for digital nomads ?
Yes, there’s a growing digital nomad community in Mauritius. It is supported by coworking spaces and networking events
How to stay in Mauritius for 6 months ?
Apply for the Premium Travel Visa and you’ll be allowed to reside in Mauritius for up to one year, extendable.
How long can American digital nomads stay in Mauritius ?
American digital nomads can stay for one year under the Premium Travel Visa, with the option to renew.
Can digital nomads avoid taxes in Mauritius ?
Digital nomads can avoid local taxes on foreign income for up to 183 days of their stay in Mauritius.
Is it easy to get a work permit in Mauritius ?
With the Premium Visa for Mauritius, it becomes pretty easy to obtain a work permit in Mauritius.
Can I apply for permanent residency through the Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa ?
No, the digital nomad visa does not lead to permanent residency ; you’ll have to apply for a separate residency permit.
Wrap Up
The Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa offers an opportunity for remote workers to immerse in the island’s culture and landscapes while they continue working.
With no application fee, straightforward eligibility requirements and a welcoming digital nomad community, Mauritius positions itself as a leading destination for freelancers and digital nomads !
