Business Licenses and Permits in Mauritius: Complete Guide (2025)

Operating a business in Mauritius requires more than just registering your company. Depending on your industry and business activities, you'll need various licenses, permits, and regulatory approvals to operate legally.

This comprehensive guide covers all major business licenses in Mauritius, application processes, costs, and industry-specific requirements - so you can ensure your business is fully compliant from day one.

Table of Contents

1. Overview of Business Licensing
2. Trade License (Business Licence)
3. Occupational Permits (Foreign Workers)
4. Industry-Specific Licenses
5. Environmental and Health Permits
6. Import/Export Licenses
7. Special Economic Zone Licenses
8. License Renewals and Compliance
9. Penalties for Operating Without Licenses
10. FAQ

Overview of Business Licensing {#overview}

Mauritius operates a comprehensive business licensing system administered by various government bodies:

• Municipal Councils: Trade licenses for retail, food, and service businesses
• Ministry of Labour: Occupational permits for foreign workers and investors
• Ministry of Industry: Manufacturing, import/export licenses
• Financial Services Commission (FSC): Financial services, funds, GBC activities
• Gambling Regulatory Authority: Gaming and betting
• Tourism Authority: Hotels, restaurants, tourist activities
• Civil Aviation: Aviation services
• Ministry of Health: Healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical businesses
• Environment Ministry: Environmental clearances

"The licensing landscape in Mauritius is business-friendly but requires careful navigation," explains Rajesh Kumar, Senior Corporate Lawyer at Mauritius Business Law Associates. "Different licenses have different timelines and requirements. We've seen businesses lose months of revenue because they applied for licenses in the wrong sequence or missed critical permits."

Typical Timeline for Common Business Types

Business Type	Total Licensing Timeline	Key Licenses Required
Retail Store	2-4 weeks	Trade license
Restaurant/Café	4-8 weeks	Trade license, health permit, fire clearance
Manufacturing	6-12 weeks	Trade license, environmental clearance, factory permit
Import/Export	4-6 weeks	Import license, customs registration
Professional Services	2-3 weeks	Trade license, professional body registration
Financial Services	3-6 months	FSC license, multiple regulatory approvals
Tourism (Hotel)	3-5 months	Tourism license, building permit, health clearance

Trade License (Business Licence) {#trade-license}

The trade license, officially called "Business Licence" or "Certificate of Registration," is the most common business license in Mauritius. It's required for most commercial activities.

Who Needs a Trade License?

You need a trade license if you operate:

Retail Businesses:

• Shops and boutiques
• Supermarkets and grocery stores
• Pharmacies
• Hardware stores
• Vehicle sales

Food Services:

• Restaurants and cafés
• Catering businesses
• Takeaway food outlets
• Food trucks
• Bakeries

Service Businesses:

• Salons and spas
• Fitness centers and gyms
• Internet cafés
• Laundromats
• Repair shops

Manufacturing:

• Small-scale production
• Workshops
• Craft businesses

Entertainment:

• Nightclubs and bars
• Cinemas
• Gaming arcades

Who Doesn't Need a Trade License?

• Professional services (lawyers, accountants, architects) - regulated by professional bodies
• Purely online businesses with no physical premises in Mauritius
• GBC companies conducting business outside Mauritius
• Home-based freelancers below turnover threshold

Application Process

Step 1: Determine Your Municipal Council

Trade licenses are issued by local municipal councils based on your business location:

• Port Louis Municipality - Port Louis city
• Beau Bassin-Rose Hill Municipality - Beau Bassin, Rose Hill
• Quatre Bornes Municipality - Quatre Bornes
• Vacoas-Phoenix Municipality - Vacoas, Phoenix
• Curepipe Municipality - Curepipe
• District Councils - All other areas (Pamplemousses, Rivière du Rempart, Flacq, Grand Port, Savanne, Plaines Wilhems, Moka, Black River)

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Business Registration Card (BRN) or Certificate of Incorporation
• National ID or passport (for proprietor/directors)
• Proof of business address (lease agreement, property deed, or landlord consent letter)
• Building and Land Use Permit (BLUP) or Morcellement Permit
• Fire Services clearance certificate (for certain premises)
• Health clearance (for food businesses)
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) clearance (for certain industries)
• Company Memorandum and Articles of Association (for companies)
• Trade license from previous year (for renewals)

Step 3: Submit Application to Municipal Council

• Visit your local municipal council office
• Complete trade license application form
• Submit all required documents
• Pay application fees

Step 4: Site Inspection

For most applications, the council will:

• Conduct site inspection of business premises
• Verify compliance with zoning regulations
• Check health and safety compliance (especially for food businesses)
• Verify that premises match lease/ownership documents

Step 5: License Issuance

If approved:

• Receive trade license certificate
• Valid for one calendar year (January 1 - December 31)
• Must be displayed prominently at business premises

Costs

Trade license fees vary by:

• Type of business
• Size of premises
• Location (municipality vs district council)
• Number of employees

Typical fees:

Business Type	Annual Fee (Rs)
Small retail shop (< 100m²)	1,500 - 3,000
Medium retail (100-500m²)	3,000 - 8,000
Large retail (> 500m²)	8,000 - 15,000
Small restaurant/café	2,500 - 5,000
Medium restaurant	5,000 - 10,000
Bar/nightclub	8,000 - 25,000
Manufacturing (small)	3,000 - 7,000
Manufacturing (large)	7,000 - 20,000
Service business (salon, gym)	2,000 - 5,000
Professional services office	1,500 - 3,000

Additional fees:

• Application processing: Rs 500-1,000
• Fire clearance inspection: Rs 1,000-3,000
• Health inspection (food businesses): Rs 500-2,000

Timeline

• Simple applications (retail, services): 2-3 weeks
• Food businesses (requiring health inspection): 3-5 weeks
• Manufacturing (requiring environmental clearance): 6-8 weeks

"Trade license delays usually stem from incomplete documentation or premises that don't meet health/safety standards," notes Priya Ramdin, Director at Island Accounting Services. "We advise clients to start the application process 2 months before opening. This gives time to address any issues the inspectors raise."

Common Rejection Reasons

❌ Premises not properly zoned for intended business use

• Solution: Apply for change of use permit or choose different location

❌ Missing Building and Land Use Permit (BLUP)

• Solution: Ensure landlord provides valid BLUP

❌ Health and safety deficiencies

• Solution: Address issues before applying (proper ventilation, fire exits, food safety equipment)

❌ Outstanding municipal dues

• Solution: Clear any arrears on property rates or previous licenses

❌ Incomplete ownership/lease documentation

• Solution: Ensure lease is properly stamped and registered

Occupational Permits (Foreign Workers) {#occupational-permits}

If you're a foreign national looking to work or invest in Mauritius, you'll need an Occupational Permit.

Types of Occupational Permits

1. Investor Permit

For foreign nationals investing in Mauritian businesses:

Requirements:

• Invest minimum USD 50,000 in a qualifying business or assets in Mauritius
• Business must create value (employment, skills transfer, technology)
• Can work in your own business

Benefits:

• 10-year renewable permit
• Spouse and dependents can reside in Mauritius
• Can purchase residential property
• Path to permanent residence after 3 years

Application fee: USD 2,000
Processing time: 4-6 weeks

2. Professional Occupational Permit

For professionals, executives, and self-employed individuals:

Requirements:

• Basic salary minimum Rs 60,000/month (Rs 720,000/year)
• Employment contract or proof of self-employment income
• Relevant qualifications and experience

Duration: 3 years, renewable

Application fee: Rs 25,000 (3-year permit)
Processing time: 2-3 weeks

3. Young Professional Occupational Permit

For qualified individuals under 35 years old:

Requirements:

• Age: under 35 years
• Recognized degree (minimum Bachelor's)
• Job offer with minimum salary Rs 30,000/month
• Valid for professionals in specific sectors (IT, finance, manufacturing, etc.)

Duration: 3 years, renewable

Application fee: Rs 15,000
Processing time: 2-3 weeks

4. Retired Non-Citizen Permit

For retirees wishing to live in Mauritius:

Requirements:

• Age: 50 years or above
• Transfer minimum USD 1,500/month to Mauritian bank account
• Or purchase property valued minimum USD 375,000

Duration: 10 years, renewable

Occupational Permit Application Process

Step 1: Gather Documents

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Recent passport photos
• Educational certificates and professional qualifications
• Employment contract (for Professional OP) or business plan (for Investor)
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical certificate
• Proof of address in Mauritius (lease, hotel booking, property deed)
• Bank statements showing financial capacity
• CV/resume

Step 2: Submit Online Application

• Apply through EDB Online portal (Economic Development Board)
• Upload all supporting documents
• Pay application fees online

Step 3: Processing and Verification

• EDB reviews application
• May request additional information
• Verifies authenticity of documents
• Conducts background checks

Step 4: Approval and Permit Issuance

• Receive approval notification
• Collect Occupational Permit from EDB
• Apply for Residence Permit within 30 days

Step 5: Residence Permit

• Apply at Passport and Immigration Office
• Submit approved Occupational Permit
• Provide biometric data
• Receive residence permit card (valid for OP duration)

Common Challenges with Occupational Permits

"We frequently help foreign clients navigate occupational permit applications," says Rajesh Kumar from Mauritius Business Law Associates. "The most common issues are:

1. Insufficient documentation - apostille/legalization requirements vary by country
2. Salary threshold confusion - must understand gross vs net, benefits inclusion
3. Investment evidence - must show clear audit trail for source of funds
4. Business plan quality - Investor permits need detailed, realistic business plans

We recently helped a UK consultant whose application was rejected because his salary contract showed Rs 55,000/month (below threshold). We restructured to Rs 65,000 base + housing allowance, reapplied, and got approval within 3 weeks."

Professional Assistance with Occupational Permits

DIY application: Possible for straightforward Professional OP cases
Professional assistance recommended for:

• Investor permits (complex business plans, investment documentation)
• First-time applicants unfamiliar with Mauritius system
• Complex employment structures
• Multiple dependents
• Time-sensitive cases

Typical legal fees: Rs 25,000-50,000 for complete OP application support

Mauritius Business Law Associates Occupational Permit services:

• Eligibility assessment and strategy
• Document preparation and certification
• Business plan development (for Investor permits)
• Online application submission
• Liaison with EDB during processing
• Residence permit application support
• Family dependent permit applications
• Permit renewal management

Industry-Specific Licenses {#industry-licenses}

Beyond trade licenses, many industries require specialized regulatory approvals.

Financial Services

Regulated by: Financial Services Commission (FSC)

License types:

• Banking license
• Insurance license
• Investment dealer/advisor license
• Fund management license
• Securities dealer license
• Money-changing license
• Global Business License (for GBC companies engaged in financial services)

Requirements:

• Minimum capital (varies by license type - Rs 2M to Rs 50M)
• Fit and proper management
• Comprehensive business plan
• Robust compliance and risk management systems
• Physical office in Mauritius
• Qualified personnel

Timeline: 3-6 months
Costs: Rs 100,000-500,000 (application fees, compliance setup, legal costs)

"FSC licensing is the most complex regulatory process in Mauritius," explains Kumar. "We guide clients through multi-stage applications, ensuring all FSC rules, AML/CFT requirements, and substance requirements are met."

Food and Beverage

Regulated by: Municipal councils, Ministry of Health

Requirements:

Restaurant/Café:

• Trade license from municipality
• Health certificate (inspection of kitchen facilities)
• Fire Services clearance
• Food handler training certificates for staff

Food Manufacturing:

• Trade license
• Health registration with Ministry of Health and Wellness
• HACCP certification (for exports)
• Environmental clearance
• Factory premises approval

Liquor License:

• Required for selling/serving alcohol
• Types: Bar license, restaurant license, retail license
• Separate application to Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA)
• Costs: Rs 10,000-50,000 depending on license type
• Strict requirements on premises location (distance from schools, religious sites)

Timeline: 6-10 weeks (including health inspections)

Common issues: "Food businesses face the most stringent inspections," says Priya Ramdin from Island Accounting Services. "We advise clients to hire a food safety consultant before applying. A Rs 15,000 pre-inspection consultation can save you from Rs 200,000 in rejected equipment or premises modifications."

Healthcare

Regulated by: Ministry of Health and Wellness

License types:

• Private clinic license
• Pharmacy license
• Laboratory license
• Dental clinic license
• Private hospital license

Requirements:

• Premises meeting health facility standards
• Qualified medical professionals (licensed in Mauritius)
• Medical equipment certifications
• Waste disposal systems (for medical waste)
• Proper insurance coverage

Timeline: 2-4 months
Inspection: Comprehensive facility inspection required

Tourism and Hospitality

Regulated by: Tourism Authority, Municipality

License types:

• Tourist accommodation license (hotels, guesthouses, villas)
• Tourist restaurant license
• Tourism Enterprise License (tour operators, car rentals, water sports)
• Pleasure craft license (boat operators)

Requirements:

Hotel/Guesthouse:

• Building permit and compliance
• Fire safety certificate
• Health clearance
• Tourism Authority grading inspection
• Trade license from municipality

Tour Operator:

• Tourism Enterprise License from Tourism Authority
• Public liability insurance
• Qualified tour guides
• Safe vehicles meeting standards

Timeline: 3-5 months for hotels, 4-8 weeks for tour operators
Costs: Rs 5,000-50,000 depending on establishment size and type

Gaming and Betting

Regulated by: Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA)

License types:

• Casino license
• Gaming house license
• Bookmaking license
• Online gambling license
• Lottery license

Requirements:

• Minimum paid-up capital Rs 10-100 million (depending on license type)
• Fit and proper test for beneficial owners and management
• Approved gaming systems and software
• Physical presence in Mauritius (even for online operations)
• AML/CFT compliance systems
• Responsible gambling measures

Timeline: 6-12 months
Costs: Rs 500,000-2,000,000 (application, compliance, setup)

Note: Gaming licensing is highly regulated and requires extensive due diligence.

Education

Regulated by: Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), Ministry of Education

License types:

• Private school registration
• Tertiary education institution license
• Training center registration
• Preschool registration

Requirements:

• Qualified teaching staff
• Approved curriculum
• Suitable premises (classrooms, facilities, safety)
• Insurance coverage
• Compliance with education standards

Timeline: 3-6 months
Regular audits: Education institutions subject to quality audits

Construction and Real Estate

Regulated by: District Council, Building Control Unit

Permits required:

• Building and Land Use Permit (BLUP)
• Morcellement permit (for subdivision)
• Outline planning permission
• Land conversion permit (agricultural to residential/commercial)
• Demolition permit

Requirements:

• Approved architectural plans
• Structural engineer certifications
• Environmental Impact Assessment (for large projects)
• Access to utilities (water, electricity, sewerage)

Timeline: 2-6 months (highly variable based on complexity)

Transport and Logistics

Regulated by: National Transport Authority, Ministry

License types:

• Public service vehicle license (taxis, buses)
• Goods vehicle license
• Driving school license
• Car rental license
• Freight forwarding license

Requirements:

• Roadworthy vehicles meeting safety standards
• Qualified drivers with appropriate licenses
• Insurance coverage (passenger liability, goods in transit)
• Vehicle tracking systems (for certain services)

Timeline: 4-8 weeks

Environmental and Health Permits {#environmental-health}

Certain businesses require environmental clearances and health approvals beyond standard trade licenses.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Required for:

• Large construction projects (hotels, factories, residential developments)
• Industrial facilities
• Waste management facilities
• Projects near sensitive areas (lagoons, forests, reserves)
• Quarrying and mining
• Energy production facilities

Process:

1. Submit EIA scoping report to Ministry of Environment
2. Conduct full EIA study (by approved consultant)
3. Public consultation (for major projects)
4. Submit EIA report for review
5. Receive EIA License

Timeline: 3-6 months (can extend to 12+ months for complex projects)
Costs: Rs 100,000-1,000,000 (EIA study costs vary dramatically by project scale)

Health Clearance

Required for:

• Food production and processing
• Restaurants, catering, food retail
• Hospitality (hotels, guesthouses)
• Healthcare facilities
• Beauty salons and spas
• Childcare facilities

Inspection covers:

• Premises cleanliness and hygiene
• Proper ventilation and lighting
• Water supply quality
• Waste disposal systems
• Pest control measures
• Staff health certificates

Timeline: 2-4 weeks
Validity: Usually 1 year (must renew annually)

Fire Safety Clearance

Required for:

• Public buildings (restaurants, hotels, cinemas)
• Large retail establishments
• Manufacturing facilities
• Educational institutions
• Healthcare facilities

Requirements:

• Fire exits clearly marked and accessible
• Fire extinguishers (appropriate type and number)
• Emergency lighting
• Fire alarm system (for larger premises)
• Smoke detectors
• Fire drill procedures
• Maximum occupancy clearly displayed

Process:

• Apply through municipal council or directly to Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service
• Schedule inspection
• Address any deficiencies identified
• Receive fire clearance certificate

Timeline: 2-3 weeks
Costs: Rs 1,000-3,000 for inspection

Import/Export Licenses {#import-export}

If you're trading internationally, you'll need various import/export registrations.

Importer/Exporter Registration

Registered by: Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA)

Process:

1. Register company with Companies Registry
2. Obtain Tax Account Number (TAN)
3. Register as importer/exporter with MRA Customs
4. Obtain Importer/Exporter Code

Required documents:

• Certificate of incorporation
• Business Registration Card
• Tax Account Number (TAN)
• Bank account details
• Business plan (for first-time importers)

Cost: Free
Timeline: 1-2 weeks

Import Permits (For Restricted Goods)

Certain goods require specific import permits:

Agricultural products - Permit from Ministry of Agro-Industry
Pharmaceutical products - License from Pharmacy Board
Chemicals - Permit from relevant authority
Firearms and ammunition - Commissioner of Police permit
Plants and seeds - Quarantine clearance
Food products - Health certificate

"Import permit requirements vary significantly by product," explains Rajesh Kumar from Mauritius Business Law Associates. "We recently helped an importer who spent 6 months trying to import organic fertilizers, stuck in customs because they didn't have the required agricultural permit. Product classification and permit identification should happen before you sign purchase orders with suppliers."

Export Permits

Generally, exports from Mauritius are unrestricted, but certain products require permits:

Cultural artifacts - National Heritage Fund approval
Endangered species - CITES permit
Controlled substances - Relevant ministry approval

Customs Registration

For frequent importers/exporters:

Customs Registered Number (CRN):

• Simplifies customs clearance
• Required for claiming duty exemptions
• Required for bonded warehouse operations

Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Status:

• Fast-track customs clearance
• Reduced inspections
• Priority treatment
• Requires proven compliance record

Special Economic Zone Licenses {#sez}

Mauritius has several special economic zones offering tax incentives and simplified regulations.

Freeport License

Who qualifies:

• Businesses involved in import, processing, light manufacturing, and re-export
• Warehousing and distribution
• Quality control and repacking services

Benefits:

• Exemption from import duties on inputs
• Exemption from VAT on purchases
• Simplified customs procedures
• Access to freeport zone facilities (near port and airport)

Requirements:

• Minimum investment (varies by activity)
• Job creation commitments
• Operational premises in designated freeport zone

Authority: Economic Development Board (EDB)
Timeline: 6-8 weeks

Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Certificate

Who qualifies:

• Manufacturing
• IT and ICT services
• Pharmaceuticals and biotechnology
• Financial services
• Logistics

Benefits:

• Corporate tax exemption for first 8 years (0%)
• Reduced tax rate thereafter (3-5%)
• Duty-free import of equipment and raw materials
• Simplified business setup

Requirements:

• Operations in designated SEZ area or any location (for services)
• Export at least 50% of production (manufacturing)
• Minimum investment thresholds (vary by sector)

Authority: Economic Development Board
Timeline: 8-12 weeks

License Renewals and Compliance {#renewals-compliance}

Most business licenses require annual renewal. Stay compliant to avoid disruptions.

Trade License Renewal

Renewal period: November-December for following year
Deadline: December 31 (for licenses valid January 1)

Process:

1. Municipal council sends renewal notice (usually October/November)
2. Submit renewal application with required documents
3. Pay renewal fees
4. Receive renewed license

Documents required:

• Previous year's license
• Proof of business address (if changed)
• Updated fire/health clearances (if applicable)
• No objection from landlord (if renting)

Late renewal penalty: 10% surcharge on license fee

"Many businesses forget about trade license renewal and suddenly find themselves operating illegally in January," warns Priya Ramdin from Island Accounting Services. "We manage license renewal calendars for our clients, ensuring applications go in by mid-November. This avoids December rush and potential delays."

Occupational Permit Renewal

When to renew: Apply 3 months before expiry

Process:

• Submit online renewal application via EDB portal
• Provide updated documents (salary slips, tax returns, business financials)
• Demonstrate continued eligibility
• Pay renewal fees

Fees:

• Professional OP (3-year renewal): Rs 25,000
• Investor OP (10-year renewal): USD 2,000

Industry License Renewals

Most industry-specific licenses require annual renewal:

Financial services licenses: FSC license fees paid annually (January)
Tourism licenses: Renewed annually through Tourism Authority
Health facility licenses: Annual health inspection and renewal
Liquor licenses: Renewed annually with MRA

Compliance Monitoring

Trade license compliance:

• License must be displayed at business premises
• Business must operate only activities specified on license
• Any change in premises, activities, or ownership requires license amendment

Occupational permit compliance:

• Holder must not change employer without EDB approval
• Minimum salary must be maintained
• Investor permit holders must maintain investment

Penalties for non-compliance:

• Operating without license: Rs 50,000-200,000 fine + possible closure
• Not displaying license: Rs 5,000-20,000 fine
• Activities outside license scope: Rs 25,000-100,000 fine + license revocation

Penalties for Operating Without Licenses {#penalties}

Operating without required licenses carries significant penalties.

Legal Consequences

Criminal penalties:

• Fines up to Rs 200,000
• Imprisonment up to 2 years (for serious violations)
• Business closure order
• Confiscation of goods/equipment

Administrative penalties:

• Inability to open business bank accounts
• Cannot enter government contracts
• Cannot obtain financing (banks check license compliance)
• Difficulty obtaining subsequent licenses
• Business premises sealed

Real Example

"We had a client who opened a café without waiting for their trade license approval," shares Rajesh Kumar from Mauritius Business Law Associates. "Municipal inspectors showed up on day 3 of operations, issued a Rs 50,000 fine, and served a closure order. The client lost Rs 300,000 in spoiled inventory, had to refund customer deposits for booked events, and couldn't reopen for 8 weeks while resolving the violation. All to save 3 weeks wait time for license approval."

Why Licenses Matter

Beyond avoiding penalties, proper licensing:

• ✅ Builds credibility with customers and partners
• ✅ Enables access to business financing
• ✅ Protects against liability claims (insurance validity)
• ✅ Allows participation in tenders and corporate supply chains
• ✅ Facilitates business sale or transfer (clean compliance record)

FAQ {#faq}

How much does a trade license cost in Mauritius?

Rs 1,500-25,000/year depending on business type, size, and location. Small retail/service businesses typically pay Rs 2,000-5,000 annually.

How long does it take to get a trade license?

2-4 weeks for simple businesses (retail, services), 4-8 weeks for food businesses (health inspection required), 6-12 weeks for manufacturing (environmental clearance required).

Can foreigners get business licenses in Mauritius?

Yes, but foreign nationals need an Occupational Permit (Investor or Professional) first. Once you have valid immigration status, you can apply for any required business licenses.

Do I need a trade license for an online business?

If you have physical premises in Mauritius (warehouse, office, showroom), yes. Purely online businesses with no physical presence and no local employees generally don't need trade licenses, but must still register the company and comply with tax requirements.

What happens if I operate without a license?

Fines up to Rs 200,000, possible imprisonment up to 2 years, business closure orders, and confiscation of goods. Additionally, you cannot access business banking, insurance, or government contracts.

Can I start operating before my license is approved?

No. You must receive your license before commencing operations. "Soft opening" or "trial period" without license is still illegal operation.

How do I renew my trade license?

Apply through your municipal council in November-December (before current license expires). Submit renewal application, pay fees, and provide updated clearances if applicable.

What if my business activities change?

You must apply for a license amendment if you:

• Add new business activities
• Change business location
• Significantly expand premises
• Change business structure (e.g., sole proprietor to company)

Amendment fee: Rs 500-2,000

Do I need separate licenses for multiple locations?

Yes, trade licenses are location-specific. Each business premises requires its own trade license from the respective municipal council.

Can I transfer my license if I sell the business?

Trade licenses are non-transferable. The new owner must apply for a new license. However, having an existing licensed premises can expedite the new license application.

What professional licenses do lawyers, accountants, and consultants need?

Professional services don't need trade licenses but must register with professional bodies:

• Lawyers: Law Society of Mauritius
• Accountants: Mauritius Institute of Professional Accountants (MIPA)
• Architects: Board of Architects
• Engineers: Council of Registered Professional Engineers

You may still need a trade license if you operate a physical office in certain municipalities.

How long are licenses valid?

Most licenses are valid for one calendar year (January 1 - December 31). Occupational Permits are valid for 3 or 10 years depending on type. Financial services licenses are ongoing but subject to annual fees and compliance reviews.

Get Professional License Application Support

Navigating Mauritius' licensing requirements doesn't have to be complicated. Professional guidance ensures you obtain all required licenses efficiently and avoid costly delays or penalties.

For legal advice and license applications:

Mauritius Business Law Associates provides comprehensive licensing support:

• License requirement assessment for your specific business
• Application preparation and submission
• Liaison with regulatory authorities
• Site preparation guidance (for inspections)
• Compliance training for your team
• License renewal management
• Representation in license appeals or disputes

Licensing packages from Rs 15,000 covering all licenses for your business type.

For ongoing compliance and renewal management:

Island Accounting Services offers compliance calendar management:

• Track all license renewal deadlines
• Automated renewal reminders (60, 30, 7 days before expiry)
• Preparation of renewal applications
• Coordination with authorities
• Compliance reporting for boards/investors

Compliance management from Rs 2,000/month as part of accounting packages.

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Last updated: January 2025

This guide provides general information about business licensing in Mauritius and should not be considered legal advice. Licensing requirements can change and vary by specific business circumstances. Always consult with licensed professionals for your situation.