Passport & Visa Requirements

A visa stands as an official endorsement granted by the Immigration Office/Embassy/Consular of Mauritius. It confirms that your application to enter Mauritius has undergone scrutiny by an Immigration Officer, deeming you eligible to enter or transit through Mauritius for a specific purpose.

This authorization permits the holder to travel to Mauritius via a designated port of entry, but does not inherently guarantee the right of admission into the country. The ultimate decision regarding admission for non-citizens rests with the Immigration Officer at the point of entry in Mauritius, who determines the duration of stay for each visit.

Visas and extensions of stay are provided without charge.

Exemptions from Visa Requirements include:

(a) Mauritian citizens

(b) Residents of Mauritius under the Immigration Act

(c) Spouses of Mauritian citizens

(d) Children or stepchildren or lawfully adopted children of individuals mentioned in (a) and (b) above

(e) Holders of Diplomatic Passports, excluding those issued by specific governments

(f) Crew members of vessels on duty or in transit to join another vessel

(g) Holders of Laissez-passer issued by recognized international organizations

(h) Individuals intending to stay in Mauritius only during a vessel’s arrival and departure.

Who Needs a Visa?

• Individuals from countries not exempted from visa requirements (Refer to Visa Requirement Country-wise)
• Those visiting Mauritius for purposes other than tourism, visit, or business need to obtain a visa/permit before travelling.

Key Points:

• Non-citizens arriving in Mauritius without a required visa may be sent back to their country at the carrier’s expense.
• Staying beyond the authorized visa period constitutes an offence liable for prosecution.
• Tourists/visitors are prohibited from engaging in lucrative activities or seeking visa extensions for studies/training.
• Employment or any gainful occupation requires a valid residence and work permit.
• Prospective students should travel only after approval for study/training in Mauritius.
• Compliance with Civil Status Act is necessary for marriage celebrations or marrying a Mauritian.
• Business visitors can apply for an Occupation Permit through the Board of Investment as an Investor, Self-Employed, or Professional.

For more details, visit the Visa Requirements per Country.

Criteria for Visa Eligibility:

• Valid passport beyond the intended stay period.
• Return/onward ticket to the country of origin or residence.
• Confirmed accommodation booking or sponsorship details.
• Adequate funds (US$100 per night) for expenses.
• Commitment to refrain from profit-making activities.

Application Procedure Overview:

• Obtain application forms at http://passport.govmu.org.
• Required documents: Two recent passport-sized photos, passport data pages’ photocopies, and residence/re-entry visa photocopy (if applicable).
• Processing time: Approximately five working days if all necessary documents are submitted.
• Citizens of most countries do not require a visa or can obtain one upon arrival for tourism purposes.
• Consult the visa section of the Prime Minister’s office for more information.