Overview of the COVID-19 Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) in Mauritius
The Government of the Republic of Mauritius introduced the Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) as a targeted measure to support self-employed individuals affected by the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Managed by the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA), this scheme aims to provide financial relief to those whose income has been significantly impacted during the lockdown period, specifically from 16 March 2020 to 15 April 2020.
Scope and Objectives of the Scheme
The primary objective of SEAS is to assist Mauritian nationals engaged in self-employment or informal trades who have experienced a decline in revenue due to the COVID-19 restrictions. Recognizing the vital role of small-scale entrepreneurs, artisans, and tradespersons in the local economy, the scheme offers a one-time financial support to mitigate the economic hardships faced during this period.
Eligibility Criteria and Exclusions
To qualify for SEAS, applicants must meet specific conditions:
- The individual must be a Mauritian citizen aged over 18 years.
- They must have been actively engaged in a business or trade for at least the last three months prior to the scheme's implementation.
- The applicant should be involved in a legitimate business, including informal sector trades such as masonry, carpentry, plumbing, hairdressing, or artistic pursuits.
Conversely, certain categories of persons are explicitly ineligible:
- Employees, whether full-time or part-time.
- Individuals receiving a basic retirement pension.
- Persons benefiting from monthly social welfare benefits.
- Those pursuing full-time higher education.
- Dependent spouses of eligible individuals.
- Persons who were unemployed at the start of March 2020.
- Household members with a total monthly income exceeding Rs 50,000, including passive income such as rent, dividends, or interest.
- Individuals earning only passive income, e.g., rent, without active engagement in a trade.
- Fishermen.
Application Process and Financial Support
Eligible individuals are entitled to receive a financial support of Rs 5,100, which covers the period from 16 March 2020 to 15 April 2020. To benefit from this scheme, applicants must submit their applications via the official online portal of the Mauritius Revenue Authority at www.mra.mu. The process is entirely digital, emphasizing the government's push for e-services and online administrative procedures.
Applicants are required to provide accurate information and supporting documentation as specified on the portal. Once approved, the scheme's payments will be directly credited to the applicant’s bank account, ensuring swift and secure disbursement of funds.
Further Assistance and Contact Information
For additional information or assistance regarding the SEAS application or related queries, applicants can contact the Mauritius Revenue Authority via email at headoffice@mra.mu or call their helpline at 207 6000. The MRA remains committed to facilitating the application process and ensuring that eligible persons receive the necessary support during these challenging times.
Legal and Administrative References
This scheme is implemented under the authority of the Mauritius Revenue Authority, operating within the legal framework established by the laws governing administrative and fiscal measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. All procedures are aligned with the government’s efforts to provide targeted relief to vulnerable sectors of the economy, emphasizing transparency and efficiency in public service delivery.
Applicants are advised to consult the official scheme notice and the MRA website regularly for updates and detailed instructions to ensure compliance with all requirements.
