Travel to Mauritius Visa Requirements and Available Visa Types

Before you Travel to Mauritius

Ensure your passport is valid beyond your intended stay in Mauritius. For those requiring a visa on arrival, your passport should be valid for at least six months from your planned arrival date.

Mauritius, a gem in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway, a business trip, or a longer stay, understanding the visa requirements for Mauritius is essential. This guide will provide you an overview with the visa types available and the necessary steps to ensure a hassle free entry into this island paradise

Is a Visa Required for Mauritius?

Mauritius offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to citizens of many countries, making it a welcoming destination for travelers globally. However, visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Below, we detailed the different types of visas available for travelers to Mauritius.

Tourist Visa

A Tourist Visa for tourist coming to Mauritius for leisure, holidays, or sightseeing. Depending on your nationality, you may be granted a visa on arrival or need to apply beforehand for certain countries.

Validity: Typically valid for up to 90 days.
Extension: Can be extended for an additional 90 days, depending on the initial visa duration.

Requirements:
A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
Proof of onward or return travel.
Sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.
Accommodation details.

Business Visa

A Business Visa is designed for those visiting Mauritius for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations to do some business in Mauritius.

Validity: Usually granted for up to 120 days per calendar year, in multiples of 90 days per visit.
Extension: Not typically extendable unless under special circumstances. If you’re visiting for business purposes, you’ll need to provide documentation related to your business activities in Mauritius

Requirements:
A valid passport.
An invitation letter from the Mauritian company or business partner.
Proof of business activity.
Sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

Premium Visa

Mauritius introduced the Premium Visa in 2020, designed for remote workers, retirees, and long-term travelers who wish to stay for an extended period without becoming permanent residents.

Validity: Valid for up to 1 year, with the possibility of renewal.
Extension: Renewable based on certain conditions.

Requirements:
A valid passport.
Proof of long-term stay plans (rental agreement or property ownership).
Proof of income or funds to support yourself without working locally.
Health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay.

Student Visa

A Student Visa is for individuals intending to study in Mauritius. This visa allows you to remain in the country for the duration of your studies.You will need an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution along with other supporting documents.

Validity: Granted for the duration of the study program.
Extension: Extendable based on the academic program length.

Requirements:
A valid passport.
Letter of acceptance from a recognized educational institution in Mauritius.
Proof of financial means to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Medical insurance.

Work Visa

A Work Visa is required for individuals planning to work in Mauritius. It is issued to those who have secured employment in the country.

Validity: Usually linked to the duration of the employment contract.
Extension: Extendable based on contract renewal.

Residence Permit

If you’re planning to live in Mauritius, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit and provide proof of employment or other valid reasons for your stay.

Requirements:
A valid passport.
An employment contract from a Mauritian employer.
Proof of qualifications and experience.
Medical certificates.
Approval from the Mauritian Work Permit Committee.

Dependent Visa

A Dependent Visa is for family members (spouse, children, or parents) of those holding a work, student, or premium visa in Mauritius.

Validity: Matches the validity of the primary visa holder.
Extension: Can be extended based on the primary visa holder’s status.

Requirements:
A valid passport.
Proof of relationship to the primary visa holder.
Proof of financial means to support dependents.
Health insurance.

How to Apply for a Mauritian Visa?

Many countries have visa exemption agreements with Mauritius, allowing their citizens to enter Mauritius without a visa for short stays (typically up to 90 days).
Check if your country is on the visa-exempt list. If your country is not on the exempt list, you will need to apply for a visa before traveling.
However, it’s essential to have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your date of arrival.

The application process for a Mauritian visa varies depending on the type of visa you require. Here’s a general outline of the steps:

1. Determine which visa type you need based on your purpose of travel and nationality.
2. Collect all the necessary documents, such as your Valid passport, Application form, Passport sized photographs, Proof of flight bookings, Proof of accommodation in Mauritius and Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
3. Depending on your visa type, you can either apply online, at a Mauritian embassy/consulate, or upon arrival (for visa on arrival options).
4. Pay the visa processing fee, if applicable.
5. Some visa types may require an interview at the embassy or consulate.
6. Once your application is processed, you will receive your visa. Make sure to check the visa’s validity and conditions before traveling.

Extended Stays and Long-Term Visas

If you plan to stay in Mauritius for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for an extension or a long-term visa

Mauritius transit visa

This visa is valid for 3 days or less. You’ll be allowed to transit through Mauritius on your way to another country or you are joining a ship as a crew member.

Visa on arrival is no cost involved
Most visas issued on arrival are valid for sixty days. A few are valid for two weeks.

Health and Travel Insurance
While not always a visa requirement, having health and travel insurance is strongly recommended. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events, ensuring peace of mind during your stay.

Arrival and Immigration Process
Upon arrival in Mauritius, you will need to present your passport, visa (if applicable), and any other required documents to the immigration authorities. They will review your documents and grant you entry based on your purpose and duration of stay.

Easy steps to get your Visa

1. Book your flight
2. Apply online
3. Get your Tourist visa, premium visa via email
4. Book accommodation for your stay in Mauritius

Always refer to the official Mauritian government website or consult with a travel advisor.
Please keep in mind that visa requirements can change at short notice.

For your own safety check for immigration updates before you travel to this beautiful island.
Advice on tourist visa, vaccinations, drinking water, saving tips on foreign currency, health, electricity, insurance are available in the government website.

If you decide to extend you stay make an application for an extension of your visa before it expires

Important information for non citizens of Mauritius

• If you arrive in Mauritius without a visa (if required) you may be repatriated to your country of origin or residence at the transporting carrier.
• Staying in Mauritius beyond the expiration of your visa or entry permit is an offence and you may be liable for prosecution by a court of law.
• As a tourist or visitor you are not permitted to engage in gainful activities or apply for a visa extension to study or attend training courses.
• You are not allowed to enter Mauritius to seek employment or take part in a gainful occupation unless you hold a valid residence permit and a work permit issued by the Mauritian Authorities
• Prospective students are advised to travel to Mauritius only after their application for study or training has been approved
• If you are planning to get married in Mauritius you should comply with the requirements of Civil Status Act.
• If you are a non citizen getting married to a Mauritian you should fulfill the requirements under the Civil Status Act.
• Coming to Mauritius on business you may apply for an occupation permit to Passport and Immigration officer through the Board of Investment as an investor, self-employed or professional.
• Staying informed and respecting local laws and customs will help ensure a smooth experience in Mauritius.
• If you earn income in Mauritius, you may be subject to local taxes. Consult with a tax advisor for your specific situation.
• Non-citizens can open a bank account in Mauritius. You’ll need proof of identity, residence, and your visa status.
• Its advisable to have a travel or health insurance to covers your medical expenses.
• Regulations can change overnight. Please use this information as a guideline only and contact the Mauritius passport and immigration office nearer your departure.