Official Notice on the Prime à L’Emploi Scheme in Mauritius
This document provides comprehensive guidance on the Prime à L’Emploi Scheme introduced by the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA). It aims to inform employers and eligible employees about the scheme's objectives, application procedures, and eligibility criteria, facilitating effective participation and compliance with the scheme’s provisions.
Objective and Legal Framework of the Scheme
The Prime à L’Emploi Scheme was established through the Finance (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2022. Its primary objective is to promote employment among young Mauritians and Mauritian women by providing financial incentives to employers. The scheme reflects the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and reducing youth and gender unemployment.
This initiative is part of the broader policy framework aimed at stimulating the labour market, particularly targeting individuals aged between 18 and 50 years, and is administered under the legal authority of the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA). The scheme is designed to support the first year of employment for eligible workers, offering a monthly allowance to participating employers.
Scope and Application of the Scheme
Eligible Employers
- Companies, associations, trusts, foundations, cooperatives, and approved charitable institutions registered in Mauritius.
- Religious bodies and individual employers are also eligible.
- Employers employing household staff are explicitly excluded from participation.
Eligible Employees
- Individuals employed on a full-time basis by eligible employers.
- Persons aged between 18 and 35 years for male employees; up to 50 years for female employees.
- Candidates who have not been employed for at least six months prior to taking up employment with the eligible employer.
- Their basic monthly salary should not exceed Rs. 50,000.
Application Process and System Access
Employers interested in benefiting from the Prime à L’Emploi Scheme must undertake a two-step process:
- Registration to Join the Scheme: Employers must submit an application through the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s online portal, accessible via the official website. The registration requires the use of their Employer Registration Number (ERN) and a password. This step is essential to be recognized as an eligible participant in the scheme.
- Monthly Payment Application: Following registration, employers are required to submit a monthly application for the payment of the allowance. This process ensures the timely disbursement of the Prime à L’Emploi to eligible employees.
Financial Support and Limitations
The scheme provides a monthly allowance of up to Rs. 15,000 per eligible employee during the first year of employment. This benefit is capped at the first 10,000 employees who meet the eligibility criteria. The scheme aims to incentivize employers to create new jobs and retain young and female workers, thereby contributing to a more inclusive labour market.
Implications for Employers and Employees
For employers, participation in the Prime à L’Emploi Scheme offers a financial incentive that can reduce the cost of hiring and retaining young and female employees. It encourages the creation of new employment opportunities and supports workforce diversification.
Employees benefit from increased employment opportunities, especially among youth and women, with the scheme providing financial support during their initial employment period. This initiative also aligns with national objectives to reduce unemployment and promote gender equality in the workplace.
Further Information and Support
Employers seeking additional details or assistance with the application process are encouraged to visit the official Mauritius Revenue Authority website at www.mra.mu or contact the MRA helpdesk during working hours at +230 207 6000. The authority provides guidance to ensure smooth registration and claim submission processes, fostering transparency and ease of access to the scheme’s benefits.
This official notice underscores the government's commitment to fostering employment and social inclusion through targeted financial incentives, leveraging digital platforms for efficient administration and compliance.
