The Budget 2026–2027 strengthens the social compact for workers — which means new obligations for employers. If you employ people in Mauritius, several leave and payroll changes will affect your policies, budgets and contracts. This guide pulls them together.
For the legal foundations, see our existing guide on employment law in Mauritius.
Expanded leave entitlements
The headline workforce changes are around leave:
| Entitlement | Change |
|---|---|
| Maternity leave | Extended to 12 months — first 6 months at full salary, remaining 6 months optional at half pay |
| Paternity leave | Extended from 4 to 6 weeks |
| Menstrual leave | New — one paid day of leave per month for women experiencing severe menstrual symptoms (including dysmenorrhoea and related conditions such as migraines) |
These apply across both the public and private sectors and represent a meaningful increase in employer leave costs that should be built into workforce planning.
New public holiday rule
Where a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the immediately following Monday will be declared a public holiday. Employers should factor this into operating calendars and shift planning.
Payroll: the move to NPPF
From 1 July 2027, the contributory pension system changes. The CSG and Portable Retirement Gratuity Fund cease and are replaced by the National Pension and Provident Fund (NPPF):
| Employee earnings | Employee | Employer |
|---|---|---|
| Up to Rs 50,000/month | 1.5% | 7.5% |
| Above Rs 50,000 (up to 8× median earnings) | 3.0% | 10.5% |
For the full mechanics, read our dedicated pension reform guide.
Other measures affecting your people
- Government will refund taxi fares for children with disabilities attending registered pre-primary schools.
- The Carer's Allowance rises from Rs 3,500 to Rs 4,250 per month.
- A new Domestic Abuse Bill and a Gender-Based Violence Coordination Committee are being introduced; breaches of protection orders become a criminal offence.
- Legislation will require a minimum of 25% female representation on boards of parastatal bodies.
What employers should do now
Update your employee handbook and contracts for the new maternity, paternity and menstrual leave, model the cost impact, and prepare payroll for the NPPF transition in 2027. Our directory of verified lawyers and accountants can help you stay compliant, and the Budget 2026–2027 business guide covers the wider context.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is maternity leave in Mauritius now?
Maternity leave is being extended to 12 months — the first 6 months paid at full salary, and the remaining 6 months optional at half pay.
How much paternity leave do employees get?
Paternity leave is extended from 4 weeks to 6 weeks under the Budget 2026–2027.
Is menstrual leave paid in Mauritius?
Yes. The Government is introducing paid menstrual leave of one day per month for women experiencing severe menstrual symptoms, including dysmenorrhoea and related conditions such as migraines, in both the public and private sectors.
What happens when a public holiday falls on a Sunday?
Where a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the immediately following Monday will be declared a public holiday.
How will payroll contributions change for employers?
From 1 July 2027, the NPPF replaces the CSG and PRGF. Employers contribute 7.5% for employees earning up to Rs 50,000 per month, and 10.5% for earnings above Rs 50,000 (up to eight times median earnings).