Official Notice on the Extension of Key Support Schemes Amid COVID-19
The Government of the Republic of Mauritius has issued an official communication to inform the public and relevant stakeholders about the extension of two critical financial assistance schemes aimed at alleviating the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These schemes are designed to support both private sector employees and self-employed individuals affected by the nationwide lockdown and curfew measures. The notice, dated 18 April 2020, provides detailed information on the scope, eligibility, and procedural updates for the continuation of these support measures.
Scope and Objectives of the Schemes
The primary objective of the Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS) is to provide financial relief to employees in the private sector who have become temporarily unemployed due to the COVID-19 lockdown and curfew. This scheme aims to sustain employment levels and mitigate income loss during the period of economic disruption.
Complementing this, the Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) offers direct financial support to individuals operating in the informal sector. By providing a one-time cash transfer, the scheme seeks to support self-employed persons who have experienced income reduction or cessation during the crisis.
Details of the Extension
Government Wage Assistance Scheme (GWAS)
- The scheme has been extended to cover the period from 1st April 2020 to 30th April 2020, aligning with the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown measures.
- Eligible employers can receive assistance equivalent to one month’s basic wage bill for each qualifying employee, with a cap of Rs 25,000 per employee.
- Eligibility criteria specify that businesses must have paid their employees for March and April 2020 and must not have laid off any employee during the lockdown period.
- The scheme applies to Mauritian full-time and part-time employees, as well as expatriates working in Mauritius.
- Employers are required to submit a new online application, which will be accessible via the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) website, www.mra.mu, to reflect potential changes in employee count or wage bills.
Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS)
- The scheme has been extended to cover the period from 16th April 2020 to 30th April 2020.
- Eligible self-employed individuals will receive an additional Rs 2,550, supplementing the initial Rs 5,100 paid for the period from 16th March to 15th April 2020.
- No new application is required for this extension; eligible persons will automatically receive the payment.
- Payments are scheduled to be disbursed starting Thursday, 23rd April 2020.
Implications for Beneficiaries and Stakeholders
The extension of these schemes underscores the Government’s commitment to supporting the workforce and self-employed persons during a period of unprecedented economic challenge. Employers and self-employed individuals are encouraged to stay informed through official channels, particularly the MRA website, for updates on application procedures and payment schedules.
Employers must ensure compliance with the eligibility criteria to benefit from the wage assistance and are advised to verify their employee lists and wage details before reapplying. For self-employed persons, no further action is required unless instructed otherwise through official communications.
Further Information and Assistance
For additional details regarding the schemes, applicants are advised to consult the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s official website at www.mra.mu or contact their helpline at 207 6000. The authority remains committed to providing support and guidance throughout the implementation of these schemes.
This official notice reflects the Mauritian Government’s proactive approach in mitigating the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic through targeted financial interventions. Citizens and businesses are encouraged to adhere to the guidelines and stay updated on any further extensions or modifications to these support measures.