Work visas
Mauritanian Work Permit & Employment Entry
For foreign nationals taking up employment in Mauritania, who need an employer-sponsored work authorisation followed by a residence permit to stay long term.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Work-authorisation and residence-permit procedures, required documents and the responsible ministry/directorate are drawn from immigration-advisory summaries; the labour authority process and any fees or validity should be confirmed with the Mauritanian Ministry of Labour and DGSN before publishing.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Mauritania government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Autorisation de travail (work authorisation) + carte de séjour
- Route type
- Employer-sponsored work authorisation followed by residence permit
- Sponsor
- A legally registered Mauritanian employer
- Residence permit authority
- Directorate General of National Security (DGSN)
Who it is for
- Foreign employees and skilled workers with an offer from a Mauritanian employer
- Roles requiring qualifications not readily available in the local labour market
Requirements
- A formal job offer/contract with salary and job description compliant with labour law
- Employer legally registered and operating in Mauritania
- Evidence the role could not be filled locally
- Documents for the residence permit: valid passport, vaccination certificate, recent medical certificate and a criminal record certificate
What you can do
- Work legally in Mauritania for the sponsoring employer
- Reside in Mauritania under a carte de séjour once granted
How to apply
- Secure a job offer from a registered Mauritanian employer
- The employer arranges the work authorisation under labour rules
- Enter Mauritania (e-Visa as required) and gather residence documents
- Apply for the carte de séjour through the national security authorities
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.