Discover everything you need to know about visiting Mauritius—from basic eligibility through new long-stay options, required paperwork, application steps, and upcoming entry changes. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to secure the right visa and plan your island getaway without surprises.
Who Qualifies for a Mauritius Tourist Visa?
Mauritius divides visitors into three main groups:
-
Visa-exempt nationals
Citizens of over 150 countries can enter without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days, according to Wikipedia’s Visa policy of Mauritius. -
Visa-on-arrival travelers
Many others obtain a visa upon landing—just present your documents at the port of entry[^1]. -
e-Visa applicants
Submit electronically if you prefer avoiding airport queues: - Eligibility and requirements mirror those for paper visas[^3].
- Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, as noted on the Mauritius Immigration & Passport Office e-Visa portal.
Premium Visa for Long-Stay Stays
Mauritius now offers a Premium Visa for remote workers, retirees, and digital nomads allowing stays up to 12 months. As highlighted in CNN’s coverage of the Mauritius Premium Visa program, applicants must demonstrate:
- Proof of monthly income ≥ USD 2,000 from outside Mauritius
- Valid travel health insurance covering your entire stay
- Clean criminal record certificate
- Commitment not to seek local employment
What Documents Will You Need?
Gather these core items regardless of your application route:
- Valid passport (≥ 6 months remaining)
- Recent passport-style photographs
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or rental agreement)
- Return or onward ticket (flexible/fundable allowed if extending)[^1]
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds
If you’re applying for an e-Visa, you’ll upload:
1. Passport scan
2. Digital photo
Special Paperwork for Minors
Children under 18 must also provide:
– Original birth certificate
– Parental consent letter signed by both parents
– Copies of parents’ passports[^4]
Step-by-Step Application Process
You can apply in two main ways:
- Online (e-Visa)
- Fill in the form at the Immigration & Passport Office portal
- Upload scanned documents
- Pay the fee by credit card
-
Check status online[^3]
-
Paper (Embassy or On-Arrival)
- Submit at your nearest Mauritian mission
- Or present documents at airport immigration (visa-on-arrival)
- Pay fees in USD, EUR, or local currency[^1]
Before landing, all travelers must complete the Mauritius All-In-One Travel Form, a health and customs declaration required as of 2023[^1].
“Clear, accurate paperwork speeds up entry and avoids visa delays.” — Passport & Immigration Office of Mauritius
Fees, Validity, Extensions & On-Site Help
According to the UK Foreign Travel Advice on Mauritius entry requirements, the tourist visa fee is approximately USD 50 for a single entry and valid for up to 90 days initially, with the option to extend once for an additional 90 days[^2].
– Extension tip: Present a refundable airline ticket to a neighboring island if you’re uncertain about your return date[^1]
– On-site services: Photocopy and printing kiosks operate at major immigration offices (hours vary)[^1]
What’s Changing in 2025? ETA & Activity Restrictions
Starting in 2025, most visitors will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure, replacing many visa-on-arrival procedures[^5].
Be aware that neither tourist visas nor ETAs allow you to:
– Engage in paid work in Mauritius
– Marry or register a civil partnership
– Apply for social benefits
– Settle permanently through repeated renewals[^5]
Your Island Adventure Awaits
With this guide, you’re ready to choose the right visa, assemble your documents, and submit your application confidently. Whether you’re planning a two-week vacation, an extended remote-work stint, or bringing the kids along, Mauritius invites you to enjoy its beaches, culture, and hospitality—visa in hand.
[^1]: PassportVisa.org, “Mauritius Tourist Visa,” https://passportvisa.org/mauritius-visa/mauritius-tourist-visa
[^2]: Mauritius Tourism Authority, “Visa Requirements,” https://www.mauritiustourism.mu/en-int/practical-info/visa-requirements
[^3]: iVisa, “Mauritius Tourist e-Visa,” https://www.ivisa.com/mauritius/tourist-evisa
[^4]: PassportVisa.org, “Mauritius Premium Visa,” https://passportvisa.org/mauritius-visa/mauritius-premium-visa
[^5]: eTurboNews, “Mauritius ETA to Replace Visa on Arrival in 2025,” https://www.eturbonews.com/426918/mauritius-visa-waiver-set-to-expire-in-2025