Moving to Mauritius: which residence permit should you choose in 2026?

Why does Mauritius attract so many new residents?

Each year, thousands of expatriates, retirees and entrepreneurs choose to settle in Mauritius. Exceptional quality of life, advantageous taxation, modern infrastructure and political stability: there are plenty of reasons. But before enjoying the lagoon and sunsets on the West coast, one question inevitably arises — which residence permit should you choose?

In 2026, several official pathways allow a foreigner to legally establish themselves on the island. Each responds to a particular profile. Here is a clear and practical overview to help you see more clearly.

The Premium Visa: to test Mauritian life

If you wish to discover the island before committing in the long term, the Premium Visa is an excellent entry point. Intended for teleworkers, digital nomads and people wishing to stay for an extended period, it allows you to reside in Mauritius for a period of up to one year, renewable.

This visa is particularly suited to the following profiles:

• Employees teleworking for a foreign company

• Freelancers and independent consultants

• Entrepreneurs in the exploration phase of the local market

It often constitutes a first step before applying for a more permanent residence permit.

Residence Permit through Real Estate Investment (PDS, IRS, RES)

One of the most popular pathways for foreigners wishing to settle permanently in Mauritius is the acquisition of property within an approved programme. Several regulatory frameworks coexist:

• PDS (Property Development Scheme): the most recent and widespread framework, it brings together a wide range of high-end residential projects open to foreigners. The purchase of property above a certain value threshold automatically gives the right to apply for a residence permit for the buyer and their family.

• IRS (Integrated Resort Scheme): historical programme intended for large luxury residential estates, now integrated into the PDS framework for new projects, but still in force for existing properties.

• RES (Real Estate Scheme): similar to the IRS, this scheme concerns smaller-scale projects. Like the IRS, it remains applicable to properties already marketed under this label.

These schemes allow the foreign buyer to obtain a residence permit valid as long as they remain owner of the property. It is a solution particularly appreciated for its stability and administrative simplicity.

Residence Permit for Retirees

Mauritius has long positioned itself as an exceptional retirement destination. The retiree residence permit is intended for people aged 50 and over, provided they can justify a monthly transfer of funds from abroad to a Mauritian bank account, in accordance with the requirements defined by the competent authorities.

This permit is initially granted for a period of three years, renewable, and can be converted to permanent residence after several years. It represents an ideal option for those who wish to enjoy a sunny retirement, without exercising any professional activity on the island.

Permit for Investors and Professionals

Do you wish to create or develop an activity in Mauritius? The investor permit, issued in connection with the EDB (Economic Development Board), is made for you. It is intended for entrepreneurs wishing to create a business in Mauritius and invest a minimum capital defined by current regulations.

For salaried professionals recruited by a Mauritian company, the Occupation Permit combined with a residence permit is the appropriate pathway. It allows both to work and reside legally on the island, with the possibility of including close family members.

Also worth noting: projects developed within the Smart City programme offer specific opportunities, particularly for technology and innovation companies wishing to establish themselves in modern urban ecosystems.

Which permit is right for you? Our advice for making the right choice

Here is a practical summary to guide your thinking:

1. Are you working remotely for a foreign company? Opt for the Premium Visa initially.

2. Do you wish to invest in luxury real estate? The PDS scheme is the most direct and safest solution.

3. Are you retired? The retiree permit offers flexibility and peace of mind.

4. Are you launching an entrepreneurial project? Contact the EDB for information on the investor permit.

Each situation is unique, and choosing the right scheme deserves personalized analysis. At YKONE Real Estate, our teams support you not only in finding your ideal property in Mauritius, but also in understanding the administrative steps related to your move. Because settling in Mauritius should be straightforward, not a challenging process.

https://ykonerealestate.com/sinstaller-maurice

FAQ

Which permit should I choose to move to Mauritius?

It depends on your profile: the Premium Visa if you work remotely for a foreign company, the property investment permit (PDS) if you buy a property, the retired person's permit if you are 50 or over, and the investor permit or the Occupation Permit if you start a business or are hired by a Mauritian company.

What is the Premium Visa?

It is a visa for remote workers, digital nomads and people wishing to stay for an extended period. It allows you to live in Mauritius for up to one year, renewable, and is often a first step before a longer-term residence permit.

Does buying property give a residence permit?

Yes, within an approved scheme such as the PDS, above a certain value threshold, for the buyer and their family. The permit remains valid for as long as you own the property.

What are the conditions for the retired person's residence permit?

It is for people aged 50 and over who show a monthly transfer of funds from abroad to a Mauritian bank account. It is granted for three years, renewable, and can be converted to permanent residence after several years.

Can I work in Mauritius with a residence permit?

It depends on the permit. The retired person's permit does not allow professional activity. To start a business you need the investor permit issued with the EDB; for a salaried job with a Mauritian company, the Occupation Permit combined with a residence permit.