Understanding the Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) in Mauritius
The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) has announced the extension of the Self-Employed Assistance Scheme (SEAS) for the month of November 2020, aimed at supporting self-employed individuals impacted by the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This notice provides essential information regarding eligibility criteria, the scope of the scheme, and the application process, ensuring affected persons can access the support they need during this challenging period.
Scope and Purpose of the Scheme
The SEAS initiative was introduced as a temporary financial support measure to assist self-employed persons in the tourism sector and related industries. Given the significant downturn in tourism activities due to health restrictions and travel limitations, the scheme aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by individuals whose livelihoods depend on tourism-related services.
The extension for November 2020 broadens the scope to include additional categories of self-employed persons, with the primary objective of providing Rs 5,100 to eligible applicants for the period from 1 to 30 November 2020. The scheme is part of the government's broader efforts to cushion the economic impact on vulnerable sectors and promote economic resilience.
Who Is Eligible for the Scheme?
To qualify for SEAS, applicants must meet specific criteria established by the Mauritius Revenue Authority:
- The applicant must be a Mauritian national aged over 18 years.
- They must be self-employed or a tradesperson who has been economically active for at least three months prior to the sanitary curfew introduced in Mauritius.
- The individual should hold a valid licence, permit, or registration from relevant authorities for activities related to tourism or tourism-supporting services, including hotels, guest houses, tourist guides, travel agencies, and others listed below.
- The applicant must not be an employee, pensioner, or recipient of social benefits, nor pursuing full-time studies.
- They should not be part of a household with a total monthly income exceeding Rs 50,000, including passive income sources such as rent or dividends.
Activities Covered by the Scheme
The scheme targets a wide range of tourism-related activities, including but not limited to:
- Hotels, guest houses, tourist residences, and domains.
- Tourist enterprises and natural attractions.
- Pleasure crafts involved in commercial nautical activities.
- Travel agencies, tour operators, tourist guides, and canvassers.
- Businesses deriving at least 50% of their income from goods or services to tourism-related entities.
- Restaurants, pubs, and tables d’hôtes holding a tourist enterprise licence.
- Contract car and bus services.
- Operators of amusement parks, museums, and other public attractions.
- Artists, handicraft makers, and stallholders in the Central Market selling tourist products.
- Taxi drivers operating at airports or based at hotels.
- Licensees of Beach Authority and other relevant permits.
Application Process and Important Notes
Eligible individuals wishing to benefit from the scheme must submit their applications online via the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s official website at www.mra.mu. The process involves providing relevant documentation to verify eligibility, such as licences or permits issued by tourism authorities.
All financial support payments will be directly credited to the applicant’s bank account, ensuring a swift and secure transfer. The scheme is specifically not applicable to residents of Rodrigues or other outer islands.
For further assistance or inquiries, applicants are encouraged to contact the MRA helpdesk during office hours at +230 207 6000.
Summary of Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Support Amount | Rs 5,100 for November 2020 |
| Eligibility | Mauritian self-employed persons active for at least 3 months, with relevant licences, and not receiving social benefits |
| Application Method | Online via www.mra.mu |
| Excluded Groups | Employees, pensioners, social benefit recipients, full-time students, and households with income over Rs 50,000 |
| Applicable Sectors | Tourism and related activities, including hospitality, travel, attractions, and arts |
This initiative underscores the Mauritian government's commitment to supporting the tourism sector and self-employed individuals during periods of economic hardship. By providing targeted financial aid, the scheme aims to sustain livelihoods and promote recovery in affected industries.
