In line with its objective to strengthen aftercare services and to foster dialogue with existing permit holders, the Economic Development Board organized a ‘Meet & Greet’ Networking Session with the premium visa holders on Thursday 29th September 2022.
The session saw the participation of around 250 premium visa holders and served as an excellent networking platform for candid discussions and insights into the unique experience of premium visa holders in Mauritius. The objective of this networking platform was to showcase the plethora of business, investment, residency, and retirement opportunities in Mauritius.
In his welcome address, Mr. Hemraj Ramnial, CSK, Chairman of the Economic Development Board expressed his gratitude to the premium visa holders for choosing Mauritius as a destination to work remotely or to reside under the Premium Visa Scheme. He provided an overview of the context in which the premium visa was introduced by Government.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. the Hon Renganaden Padayachy, Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development reiterated Government’s commitment to offer a seamless application and residency experience to global citizens to consider relocating in Mauritius. In this perspective, the Honourable Minister of Finance underlined the performance of the premium visa scheme since its introduction on 16th of November 2020. He pointed out that more than 3,600 applications by global citizens and more than 2,430 holders across 45 countries have been approved. The Minister of Finance highlighted that the French, South African and British nationals are amongst the top 3 Premium visa holders in Mauritius.
He further added that in the latest ranking published by Le Figaro, Mauritius was also recognized as the 4th best country in the world to retire and been hailed as one of the safest countries for digital nomads in 2022 by KAYAK’s Work from Wherever Index. He provided an overview of the business climate in Mauritius and outlined the three-pronged strategy in a bid to build an economy which is more innovative, resilient, and sustainable, namely consolidation of well-established sectors, a market and sector diversification focused on pharmaceutical, medical devices manufacturing, biotechnology, renewable energy and fintech and positioning Mauritius as a launchpad for investments in Africa and other emerging markets.
Mr. Ken Poonoosamy highlighted the various opportunities in the country and provided a 360-degree view of the different residency schemes, investment opportunities in Mauritius and the routes for foreigners/retirees to enjoy a relaxed work-life balance in Mauritius. The EDB also showcased the various attributes of Mauritius through a presentation. Mr. Poonoosamy concluded by inviting the premium visa holders to delve into the wide array of opportunities in Mauritius.
Facts & figures – Premium Visa
As at 27 September 2022,
No. of applications received : 3640
No. of applications approved : 2432
Non-citizens from over 85 countries are now holders of a Premium Visa. In terms of category for Premium Visa application, the following has been noted :
- 60% of the applicants intend to work remotely, mainly as consultants or professionals in technical/financial fields
- 25% are on long term vacation
- 15% are seeking to retire in Mauritius
A considerable number of application for renewal of Premium Visa has also been noted, a clear indication of the attractiveness and appeal of Mauritius as a destination for remote working.
Premium Visa application as per country:
