Africa's second richest country activates $1M golden visa program to attract 100 high-net-worth individuals globally

Mauritius, Africa’s second wealthiest and most peaceful country, has officially launched its highly anticipated $1 million Golden Visa program, aimed at attracting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) from around the world.

• Mauritius has launched a $1 million Golden Visa program to attract high-net-worth individuals globally.
• Applicants must invest $1 million within 12 months of arrival to be eligible for the visa, which allows multiple entries for up to two years, renewable with further investment.
• The visa targets key sectors including fintech, AI, biotechnology, renewable energy, and global treasury services, aiming for about 100 investors annually.
• The new program joins existing investment migration options and aims to position Mauritius as a leading African destination for stable, long-term investment opportunities.

Announced by Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the initiative requires applicants to commit to a $1 million investment within 12 months of arrival, establishing Mauritius as a premier destination for investors in Africa.

“We are offering this program to individuals who wish to contribute to the country’s development while enjoying a peaceful and stable environment,” said Ramgoolam during his parliamentary address. “This initiative provides an opportunity for applicants to invest in key economic sectors and become integral members of Mauritius's growing community.”

Mauritius’s Strategic Economic Transformation

Mauritius is positioning itself as a leading destination for global investors seeking stability, growth, and diversification opportunities.

Ranked as Africa’s second-richest country according to the HelloSafe Prosperity Index 2026, the island nation has successfully transitioned from a sugar-dependent economy to one driven by finance, tourism, and manufacturing.

This transformation, coupled with political stability, strong governance, a high level of safety and security, low militarization, and minimal involvement in domestic or international conflict, has made Mauritius one of the continent’s most prosperous nations.

Additionally, the country ranks as Africa’s most peaceful nation in the 2025 Global Peace Index for the 18th consecutive year, ranking 26th globally with a score of 1.586.

This further enhances Mauritius's appeal to international investors seeking a secure environment for their capital.

The Golden Visa Program

Approved by Mauritius’s Cabinet on April 10, the Golden Visa program is designed to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) by offering a multiple-entry visa for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal contingent on further investments.

Applicants must commit to a $1 million investment within the first 12 months of their arrival, focusing on vital sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, renewable energy, and global treasury services.

The program targets approximately 100 investors annually, with the goal of directing substantial capital into these sectors, driving sustainable economic growth for Mauritius in the long term.

Mauritius’s Existing Investment Migration Products

Mauritius already offers a range of investment migration products to attract foreign capital. These include the Permanent Residency Permit, which requires a US$375,000 investment in approved real estate and grants a 20-year renewable permit.

The Occupation Permit for investors starts at US$50,000 in a Mauritius-based business, with a ten-year term.

Unlike these residence permits, the Golden Visa is a multiple-entry visa, providing greater flexibility for individuals looking to explore investment opportunities in Mauritius.

Competing in the Global Golden Visa Market

While Europe, the United States, and the UAE continue to dominate the global Golden Visa market, African countries like Mauritius, South Africa, Ethiopia and Namibia are establishing themselves with competitive investor residency options.

These nations combine a high quality of life, political stability, modern infrastructure, and safety with strong investment potential in real estate, finance, and natural resources.

Mauritius’s Golden Visa program stands out in the African context, offering a clear and stable pathway for investors looking to benefit from Africa’s emerging markets.

Its attractive investment environment, paired with the country’s diversification strategy, positions Mauritius as a top destination for global investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.