If you live or work in Mauritius on an Occupation Permit — or you're planning to — the Budget 2026–2027 brings the most significant changes to the system in years. The criteria for issuing permits have been streamlined across the Investor, Professional and Self-employed categories, a new Technical category is created, and the Family Occupation Permit is being abolished.
This guide breaks down each change so you can check whether your situation is affected.
Investor category
The Investor Occupation Permit criteria are revised as follows:
- Minimum initial investment: henceforth USD 100,000.
- Minimum annual turnover: Rs 5 million from year 3 of registration, and Rs 8 million from year 5 to qualify for renewal.
- Innovative start-ups: performance indicators will be introduced instead of fixed financial thresholds.
Professional category
This is one of the biggest simplifications:
- The two sub-categories — ProPass (Professional Pass) and Expert Pass — are merged into one category, since the benefits under both were the same.
- The minimum monthly basic salary is set at Rs 50,000 across all sectors.
- A transitional provision will apply for existing Occupation Permit holders in this category.
Self-employed category
The minimum business income for the Self-employed Occupation Permit is revised:
| Stage | Minimum business income |
|---|---|
| From year 3 of registration | Rs 2 million |
| From year 5 of registration (for renewal) | Rs 3 million |
New Technical category
A new Technical category is introduced under a Government-to-Government framework, where an Occupation Permit is granted for an initial period of 3 years, renewable thereafter. This is aimed at bringing in specialised technical personnel through bilateral arrangements.
Family Occupation Permit abolished
The Family Occupation Permit category is abolished. If your current arrangement relies on this category, you should seek advice promptly on alternative routes for family members. Consequential amendments are being made to the Immigration Act.
Summary of the changes
| Category | Key 2026 change |
|---|---|
| Investor | Minimum investment USD 100,000; turnover Rs 5m (yr 3) / Rs 8m (yr 5) |
| Professional | ProPass + Expert Pass merged; Rs 50,000 minimum monthly salary |
| Self-employed | Business income Rs 2m (yr 3) / Rs 3m (yr 5) |
| Technical | New category, G-to-G, 3 years renewable |
| Family | Category abolished |
What you should do
If you hold or are applying for an Occupation Permit, re-check your category against the new thresholds before your next renewal — particularly if you are a Professional (salary floor) or relied on the Family Permit. For setting up the underlying company or restructuring, our work permit service and the directory of verified immigration lawyers can guide you. See also the broader Budget 2026–2027 business guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new minimum investment for the Investor Occupation Permit?
The minimum initial investment for the Investor category is set at USD 100,000 under the Budget 2026–2027 changes.
Are ProPass and Expert Pass still separate?
No. ProPass (Professional Pass) and Expert Pass are merged into a single Professional category, because the benefits under both sub-categories were the same. A transitional provision applies for existing holders.
What is the minimum salary for a Professional Occupation Permit in 2026?
The minimum monthly basic salary for the Professional category is set at Rs 50,000 across all sectors.
Is the Family Occupation Permit still available?
No. The Family Occupation Permit category is being abolished, with consequential amendments made to the Immigration Act. Affected holders should seek advice on alternative routes.
What is the new Technical category?
It is a new Occupation Permit category introduced under a Government-to-Government framework, granted for an initial period of 3 years and renewable thereafter, aimed at specialised technical personnel.