Official Notice on the Extension of the Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS) and Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) for October 2021
On 14 October 2021, the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) issued an official communication regarding the extension of financial support measures provided by the Government of the Republic of Mauritius. This notice pertains specifically to the continuation of the Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS) and the Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) throughout October 2021, in response to ongoing economic challenges faced by various sectors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Scope and Applicability of the Extension
The extension of GWAS and SEAS aims to support both employers and self-employed individuals affected by restrictions or closures during October 2021. The measures are designed to mitigate the financial impact on businesses and individuals whose operations were limited or halted due to health and safety protocols.
Support for the Tourism Sector
Recognizing the significant economic contribution of the tourism industry, the government has committed to continue providing financial assistance under both schemes for the entire month of October 2021. This support applies to employers and self-employed persons operating within the islands of Mauritius and Rodrigues, ensuring the sustainability of tourism-related activities during this period.
Support for Other Affected Sectors
Beyond tourism, several other sectors that were not permitted to operate during October 2021 are also eligible for full-month assistance. These include:
- Professional sports
- Horse racing bookmakers (outlets), casinos, and gaming houses
- Theatres and cinema halls
- Nightclubs licensed by the Tourism Authority
Sectors Permitted to Operate Under Sanitary Conditions Since July 2021
For sectors allowed to resume activities from July 2021, provided they adhere to sanitary and health protocols, the government extends financial support for the entire month of October 2021. These sectors include:
- Fitness centres
- Leisure parks, amusement centres, including aquariums
- Multi-purpose halls and wedding halls
- Bars with a turnover not exceeding Rs 50 million for the year ending 2020
- Religious bodies
- Canteens of private international schools with turnover not exceeding Rs 50 million for 2020
- Training institutions registered under the Mauritius Qualifications Authority Act
- Auctioneers appointed under the Sales by Auction Act
- Restaurants, fast-food outlets, cafes, and caterers with annual turnover not exceeding Rs 50 million
- Fee-charging crèches, pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools, as well as registered universities
- Self-employed individuals such as stallholders, haberdashers, hawkers, and artists affected by closures
Application Procedures and Eligibility
For Employers: Submission of Applications
Employers wishing to benefit from GWAS for October 2021 must submit a new application via the official MRA website. The application process involves completing the relevant online form and providing necessary supporting documents. Employers must also undertake a commitment not to lay off any employees until 31 March 2022, failing which the government reserves the right to recover the assistance paid.
For Self-Employed Individuals: Automatic Eligibility
Self-employed persons eligible for SEAS are not required to submit new applications for October 2021. Their eligibility is maintained based on previous registration and qualification criteria. However, they are advised to verify their status and ensure that their details are up to date through the official channels.
Further Information and Assistance
For detailed guidance on the application process, eligibility criteria, or any other inquiries, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the official Mauritius Revenue Authority website at www.mra.mu. Additionally, assistance can be obtained by contacting the MRA Helpdesk during working hours at +230 207 6000 or via email at [email protected].
This extension underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to support sectors and individuals impacted by the pandemic, ensuring economic stability and employment continuity during these challenging times.