Mauritius Extends Wage and Self-Employed Assistance Schemes for

Official Notice: Extension of the Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS) and Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) for November 2021

On 18 November 2021, the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) issued an official communique regarding the continued support measures provided by the Government of the Republic of Mauritius through the extension of two key financial assistance schemes: the Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS) and the Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS). This notice aims to inform employers and self-employed individuals about the eligibility criteria, sectors covered, and application procedures for the month of November 2021.

Context and Objectives of the Extension

The Mauritian government introduced GWAS and SEAS as part of its broader strategy to mitigate the economic impact of restrictions imposed due to health measures. These schemes are designed to provide financial support to businesses and self-employed persons affected by the temporary suspension or limitation of operations, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The extension for November 2021 signifies ongoing government commitment to assist the affected sectors and preserve employment levels across the country.

Scope of Support for Different Sectors

Tourism Sector

Employers and self-employed individuals operating within the tourism industry in Mauritius and Rodrigues will continue to receive financial assistance throughout November 2021. This sector remains a priority due to its significant contribution to the national economy and its vulnerability during periods of travel restrictions.

Sectors Excluded from Tourism

For sectors outside of tourism that were prohibited from operating during November 2021, the government has extended full-month financial support under GWAS and SEAS. These include:

• Professional sports organizations
• Horse racing bookmakers and outlets
• Theatres and cinema halls
• Nightclubs licensed by the Tourism Authority
• Bars

Sectors Allowed to Operate Under Sanitary Conditions Since July 2021

Businesses permitted to operate from July 2021, subject to health and safety protocols, are also eligible for continued assistance. These include:

• Fitness centres
• Leisure parks and amusement centres, including aquariums
• Multi-purpose halls, such as wedding venues
• Religious bodies
• Canteens of private international schools (excluding public and grant-aided secondary schools) with a turnover not exceeding Rs 50 million for the fiscal year ending 2020
• Training institutions registered under the Mauritius Qualifications Authority Act
• Auctioneers appointed under the Sales by Auction Act
• Food service businesses, including restaurants, cafes, and caterers, with annual turnover not exceeding Rs 50 million
• Fee-charging crèches, pre-primary, primary, secondary schools, and registered universities
• Casinos and gaming houses
• Self-employed artists

Application Procedures and Important Notes

GWAS Applications

Employers do not need to submit a new application for November 2021, as the scheme's payments will be processed based on the application submitted in October 2021. However, any amendments regarding the number of employees or the assistance amount can be communicated via email to the MRA at [email protected].

SEAS Applications

Self-employed individuals eligible for SEAS are also not required to submit new applications for November 2021. The continuation of support is automatic for those already registered and approved.

Further Information

For additional details or assistance, stakeholders are encouraged to visit the official MRA website at www.mra.mu. The MRA Helpdesk can be contacted during working hours at +230 207 6000, or inquiries can be sent via email to [email protected].

Conclusion

This extension underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to support sectors most affected by the pandemic restrictions. Employers and self-employed persons in eligible sectors are advised to review the detailed criteria and ensure their continued compliance with health protocols while benefiting from the financial assistance schemes during November 2021.