Visas & Residence Permits — French

French nationals form one of the largest expatriate communities in Mauritius, and for good reason: French is spoken everywhere, Franco-Mauritian cultural ties run deep, and daily life is easy to navigate in French. There is no France-specific scheme — you use the standard Economic Development Board (EDB) routes.

Entry and first step

French passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 90 days as visitors. Most movers arrive to scout, then apply for the appropriate long-stay permit rather than living on visitor status.

The routes most French movers use

• Occupation Permit (Professionnel) — with a Mauritian employment contract above the salary threshold.
• Occupation Permit (Investisseur / Indépendant) — for founders and investors in a Mauritian company.
• Premium Visa — very popular with French remote workers, entrepreneurs and retirees earning from France; one year, renewable.
• Permis de résidence (Retraité) — for over-50s transferring a qualifying monthly amount.
• Résidence par l'immobilier — buying in an approved scheme (PDS/Smart City) above the threshold grants residence.

Documents

A French criminal-record extract (extrait de casier judiciaire, bulletin n°3), apostilled where needed, plus proof of funds and, for professionals, the contract. French-language documents are widely understood, but official translations may still be requested.

The language advantage is real — schooling, healthcare and admin are all accessible in French. Confirm current thresholds with the EDB before applying.