Passport & Visa Requirements in Mauritius

Visa Requirements for Mauritius: Everything You Need to Know

A visa is an official authorization issued by the Immigration Office, Embassy, or Consulate of Mauritius. It indicates that your application to enter or transit through Mauritius has been reviewed and approved by an immigration officer, confirming your eligibility to visit the island for a specific purpose.

However, a visa merely allows the holder to travel to a port of entry in Mauritius. It does not guarantee entry into the country. The final decision to admit a non-citizen lies with the immigration officer at the port of entry, who will decide on the duration of stay based on the purpose of the visit.

Visa and Extension of Stay

Visas, as well as extensions of stay, are issued free of charge for eligible travelers.

Visa Exemptions: Who Does Not Need a Visa?

The following categories of individuals are exempt from the visa requirements:

  • Citizens of Mauritius
  • Residents of Mauritius as defined under the Immigration Act
  • Spouses of a Mauritian citizen
  • Children, stepchildren, or lawfully adopted children of individuals listed above
  • Diplomatic Passport holders (except those from Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen)
  • Crew members of a vessel traveling on duty or in transit to join another vessel
  • Holders of Laissez-passer issued by the United Nations, SADC, or other internationally recognized organizations
  • Persons intending to stay in Mauritius only during the stay of a vessel by which they arrive and depart

Who Needs a Visa?

  • All non-exempt travelers from countries requiring a visa must obtain one before traveling to Mauritius. Please refer to the Visa Requirement Country-wise list for specific details.
  • Individuals visiting Mauritius for purposes other than tourism, visiting family/friends, or business must apply for an appropriate visa or permit prior to departure.

General Visa Information

  • Repatriation: Non-citizens traveling without the necessary visa may be repatriated to their country of origin or residence at the transporting carrier’s expense.
  • Overstaying: Staying beyond the visa or permit validity period is an offence, and violators may face prosecution.
  • Employment: Non-citizens traveling for tourism or visiting purposes cannot engage in any form of employment or business activities.
  • Employment Permit: To work or engage in a business in Mauritius, a valid residence permit and work permit issued by Mauritian authorities are required.
  • Studying: Students must ensure their application for study or training in Mauritius is approved before traveling.
  • Marriage: Non-citizens coming to Mauritius for marriage or to marry a Mauritian must comply with the Civil Status Act requirements.
  • Business: Business travelers may apply for an Occupation Permit through the Board of Investment (BOI) for investor, self-employed, or professional status.

Visa Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a visa to Mauritius, the following criteria must be met:

  • Valid Passport: The passport must have an expiry date that exceeds the intended duration of stay.
  • Return/Onward Ticket: A confirmed ticket for departure to the country of origin or residence.
  • Accommodation: Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking, or evidence of sponsorship if staying with a Mauritian citizen (the sponsor must provide their personal details and relationship).
  • Sufficient Funds: Proof of sufficient funds for the stay, approximately US$100 per night.
  • No Employment: A pledge not to engage in any profit-making activities during the visit.

Application Procedure

  1. Download and Complete Application Form: Available at passport.govmu.org.
  2. Required Documents:
    • Two recent passport-sized photographs
    • A photocopy of the passport’s data pages
    • A photocopy of the residence/re-entry visa (if applicable)
  3. Processing Time: Applications typically take 5 working days for processing and issuance of the visa, provided all documents are correctly submitted.

Visa on Arrival

Citizens of many countries do not require a visa or may obtain a visa on arrival for tourism purposes. For more detailed information, please refer to the Visa Section of the Prime Minister’s Office or visit the official Mauritius Immigration website.

We Are Here to Help

For any questions or assistance with your visa application, we are committed to making your Mauritius travel experience as smooth as possible. Explore Mauritius Specials, Holiday Packages, and more at www.mauritius.co.za.