I'm planning on applying for the premium visa and will be living in Mauritius for a little over 6 months and had a few questions,
1. The premium visa requires a proof of accommodation, I emailed EBD about it asking if it's ok to enter the country with an AirBnB booking until I find a more permanent place or sign a lease.
They said it was fine as long as I kept them informed of my new location. Has anyone else done this? Wanted to make sure.
2. I'm planning on living in the West since I like hiking. While looking for a place to stay, should I go through agents or is there a way to do it without paying an agent's commission? I only need a small 1 or 2 bedroom place since I'll be alone. If anyone has leads please PM.
3. Driver's License and Tax Number - How easy is it to get a local driver's license? It looks like having a car is a must if I need to get around the Island. My Indian license will be good for the first month but I'll need a local one after that. I heard there's a way to exchange a foreign license for a local one?
How do I apply for the Tax number since I'll be becoming a tax resident here as my stay is longer than 183 days. Can I apply for it before the 183 day period has passed?
How long does it take to get it and is the process straightforward or is there lots of paperwork involved.
I'm a freelance engineering consultant if that makes a difference.
4. What is a good bank to have an account with? A bank that doesn't charge too many unnecessary fees and has a good USD to MUR exchange rate would be Ideal.
5. Is there a place that offers a long term bike rental? How much would it be to buy a decent mountain bike? Do the roads have bike lanes?
6. Courier services - I'll be importing parts occasionally for my projects, since it's mostly semiconductors and chips they seem to be duty free. What's a fast and reliable shipping service? DHL, Fedex, USPS etc.
If there's anything else I should know, please share
Thanks,