Moving to Mauritius

We guide you through every step of moving to Mauritius, from visa and permit applications to real estate, business setup, school guidance, and settling in.

Permits for moving to Mauritius

When moving to Mauritius, you will need one of five main permits: a Retirement Permit (age 50+), a Residence by Property Investment, an Investor Permit, a Self-Employed Permit, or a Professional Permit. The right one depends on your age, income source, and investment plans.

Retirement Permit Retirees 50+

For those aged 50+ wishing to retire in Mauritius.

• Requirements: USD 2,000/month to a local bank account

• Duration: 10 years, renewable

• Permanent Residence: Eligible after 5 years + USD 200,000 total transferred to Mauritius — grants a 20-year long-stay permit.

Residence by Property Investment Property

Purchase in an approved scheme (PDS, IRS, RES, Smart City) for USD 375,000+.

• Requirements: USD 375,000 minimum property purchase

• Duration: As long as property is owned

• Permanent Residence: Immediate PR on purchase — maintained for as long as the property is owned.

Investor Permit Working Professionals

For entrepreneurs investing in a Mauritius-incorporated business.

• Requirements: Set up company + USD 50,000 business investment. MUR 1.5M turnover (Year 1); MUR 20M total by Year 5; MUR 5M/year from Year 6 for renewal.

• Duration: 10 years, renewable

• Permanent Residence: Qualify for 20-year PRP with MUR 15m annual turnover or MUR 75m cumulative over 5 years.

Self-Employed Permit Working Professionals

For freelancers and consultants serving foreign clients from Mauritius.

• Requirements: Register as self-employed + USD 50,000 transferred to a Mauritius bank account. MUR 750K/year from Year 1; MUR 6M total by Year 5; MUR 1.5M/year from Year 6 for renewal.

• Duration: 10 years, renewable

• Permanent Residence: Qualify for 20-year PRP with MUR 3m annual income or MUR 15m cumulative over 5 years.

Professional Permit Working Professionals

For professionals with a confirmed job offer from a Mauritius employer.

• Requirements: Job offer required. Min. salary MUR 30,000/month

• Duration: Up to 10 years, renewable

• Permanent Residence: Qualify for PRP with a salary of MUR 400,000/month sustained for 5 consecutive years.

Premium Visa (Digital Nomad) Remote Work

Live and work remotely from Mauritius for foreign employers or clients.

• Requirements: Min. USD 1,500/month from a foreign employer or clients

• Duration: 1 year, renewable

• Permanent Residence: Does not lead to permanent residence.

Source: Economic Development Board (EDB) Mauritius

The fastest route to permanent residence when moving to Mauritius is the Property Investment route. It grants immediate PR upon purchase of a qualifying property at USD 375,000 or above, with no prior permit required. However, we advise buying a residential property only if you are sure about living in Mauritius.

We handle the entire permit process on your behalf

TBI Mauritius assists through the entire application process, from assessing your eligibility and preparing your documents to submitting the application and accompanying you to the EDB appointment.

Mauritius as a Jurisdiction for Residency, Investment & Business

IREX Conference — Dubai, February 2026

Philip Tsalikis, director of TBI Mauritius and a British lawyer based on the island, presented at the IREX conference in Dubai in February 2026. The presentation covers Mauritius as a stable, well-regulated jurisdiction, going beyond its reputation as a holiday destination.

Topics include the main residency pathways available when moving to Mauritius: the retirement visa, residency by property investment, the investor permit, the self-employed permit, and the occupation permit. Philip also covers the tax advantages of living in Mauritius and the international banking options available to residents.

Watch Philip's IREX presentation (YouTube)

Permit application process

This process applies to Occupation Permits (Investor, Self-Employed, Professional) and the Retirement Permit.

1. Initial Consultation

We assess your eligibility for moving to Mauritius, recommend the right permit for your situation, and walk you through the full process and timeline so there are no surprises.

1–2 days

2. Document Preparation

We guide you through gathering all required documents, liaising with the authorities to ascertain the latest interpretations of the rules on each document, and identifying from the start where any issues may arise and how to resolve them. Documents typically include:

• Police clearance certificate — this can take a few days to 1–2 weeks depending on your country

• Personal documents — passport, birth certificate

• Employment documents where applicable — job offer letter, contracts, professional qualifications

2–4 weeks

3. Company / Business Setup (Investor & Self-Employed)

The setup required depends on your permit type:

• Investor Permit: A Mauritius company must be incorporated. We introduce you to a reliable company formation provider suited to your structure and needs. Domestic companies typically take a few days; GBC (Global Business Company) structures take 4–6 weeks.

• Self-Employed Permit: You apply for a Self-Employed BRN (Business Registration Number), a simpler process with no full company incorporation required. We bring in a local accounting firm to handle the registration on your behalf at no extra cost.

Domestic company: a few days | GBC: 4–6 weeks

4. Submit Application to the EDB

We prepare and submit your complete application to the Economic Development Board (EDB) on your behalf, managing all communication with the authorities. The entire submission can be handled remotely, with no requirement for you to be in Mauritius at this stage. With years of experience and a professional team that scrutinises every document before submission, we are able to anticipate and resolve most of the issues that applicants typically encounter.

1–2 days

5. Processing & Approval in Principle

The EDB reviews your application. Processing times vary by permit type. Once approved, you receive an Approval in Principle (AIP) — your confirmation that the permit has been granted.

2–8 weeks depending on permit type

Important: From the date of your AIP, you have a 90-day window to complete the remaining steps and collect your permit. TBI tracks this deadline and plans every step around it.

6. Submit Remaining Documents

Within the 90-day window, you submit the final supporting documents required before your EDB appointment:

• Bank statements showing proof of funds

• Medical reports

• Any additional documents requested by the EDB

We liaise directly with EDB officials and keep track of timing, planning every step around the 90-day window.

Within the 90-day AIP window

7. EDB Appointment & Original Documents

You attend an appointment at the EDB to present your original documents in person. TBI coordinates the appointment and ensures everything runs smoothly within the 90-day window.

Scheduled within the 90-day AIP window

8. Permit Issued

Following your appointment, your permit documents are issued. You are now a legal resident of Mauritius.

Dependants (spouse & children): Can be added at any point after the main applicant's permit is fully issued. TBI handles dependant applications as a separate process.

A few days to 1 week after appointment

Cost of Living When Moving to Mauritius (2026)

Figures below are grouped as Budget / Mid-Range / Luxury where the cost varies by lifestyle. Items with a single figure apply across the board.

Housing

• Rent — 2–3 bedroom apartment: Budget USD 500–900 / mo · Mid-Range USD 1,200–2,500 / mo · Luxury USD 3,000–6,000 / mo

• Luxury villa: Luxury USD 3,500–15,000 / mo

Food & Groceries

• Groceries (family of 4): Budget USD 400–600 / mo · Mid-Range USD 700–1,000 / mo · Luxury USD 1,500+ / mo

• Street food / local eatery: USD 2–5 / person

• Restaurant meal: Budget USD 8–12 / person · Mid-Range USD 20–40 / person · Luxury USD 60+ / person

• Upscale restaurant (meal for 2): Mid-Range USD 80–130 · Luxury USD 200+

Utilities & Connectivity

• Electricity: Budget USD 20–65 / mo · Mid-Range USD 65–130 / mo · Luxury USD 200+ / mo

• Water: USD 6–11 / mo (higher if you have a pool)

• Internet (fibre broadband): USD 25–45 / mo

• Mobile phone (prepaid): USD 10–30 / mo

Transport

• Car rental (including petrol): Budget USD 300–400 / mo · Mid-Range USD 500–700 / mo · Luxury USD 900+ / mo

• Public transport (bus / metro): Bus fares Rs 17–47 per trip; metro Rs 52 end-to-end (Port Louis to Curepipe)

Healthcare

• Private health insurance (family of 4): Budget USD 200–300 / mo · Mid-Range USD 300–500 / mo · Luxury USD 600+ / mo

• GP / specialist consultation: ~Rs 2,000 per appointment. Hospital stays at private clinics can exceed Rs 100,000 — comprehensive health insurance is strongly recommended.

Education

• International / private school fees: Up to USD 1,200 / mo depending on school and curriculum

Estimated monthly total — family of 4

• Budget: USD 1,800–2,500

• Mid-Range: USD 3,500–5,500

• Luxury: USD 8,000–15,000+

Fuel (petrol & diesel) prices are government-regulated and updated periodically. Check current rates at the State Trading Corporation (STC) before budgeting.

Exchange rate approx. 1 USD = 46.94 MUR (April 2026). Costs vary significantly by location — Grand Baie and Tamarin are generally the most expensive areas; interior towns such as Moka, Rose-Hill, and Quatre-Bornes offer more affordable options.

Tax Guide for People Moving to Mauritius

• 0% Capital Gains Tax — No tax on profits from property, shares, or asset sales.

• 0% Inheritance / Estate Tax — No inheritance tax, estate duty, or wealth tax in Mauritius.

• 0–35% Personal Income Tax — Tiered rate system based on chargeable income.

• 15% Corporate Tax — One of the lowest corporate tax rates in Africa.

• 15% VAT — Standard rate applies to most goods and services.

• 183 days — Tax Residency Threshold — Spend 183+ days in Mauritius per tax year (July–June) to become a tax resident.

• 45+ Double Tax Treaties — Including South Africa, France, UK, India, Germany, and more.

The above is for general information only and does not constitute tax advice. Tax in Mauritius is a complex and personal matter — we recommend consulting a qualified Mauritius-registered tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

For a full overview of the Mauritius tax system, visit our Mauritius Tax page.

Best Areas to Consider When Moving to Mauritius

Grand Baie (North Coast)

The most cosmopolitan area on the island. Vibrant expat community, excellent amenities, restaurants, and shopping. Best variety of international schools nearby.

Most social · Family-friendly · Highest cost

Tamarin / Black River (West Coast)

Laid-back beach town with a strong surf culture and growing expat community. Excellent for water sports enthusiasts and active outdoor lifestyles.

Outdoor lifestyle · Drier climate · Water sports

Flic en Flac (West Coast)

Popular beach town with a strong French expat community. Beautiful long sandy beach, warm west coast climate, and lower costs than the north.

French-speaking · Beach lifestyle · Good value

Moka (Central Plateau)

Upscale residential suburb favoured by families. Excellent international schools, Bagatelle and Tribeca mall nearby, cooler temperatures, and a quieter residential feel.

Best schools · Families · Cooler climate

Mahebourg / SE Coast (Southeast)

Quieter, more rural, and authentically Mauritian. Stunning natural scenery and a slower pace of life. Ideal for retirees seeking peace and lower costs.

Peaceful · Lowest cost · Rural feel

Trou d'Eau Douce / Belle Mare (East Coast)

Known for its stunning lagoon, white sandy beaches, and a relaxed pace of life. Less developed than the north or west but with a growing number of upscale properties and resorts nearby.

Quiet · Stunning beaches · Upscale properties

Buying Property When Moving to Mauritius

Approved Schemes — Where Foreigners Can Buy Property

As of the 2025/2026 budget, foreigners can only purchase residential property in Mauritius within EDB-approved schemes. Buying outside these schemes is no longer permitted. The main options are:

• Property Development Scheme (PDS) — The primary framework for foreigners. Includes villas, apartments, and penthouses in integrated resort-style developments across the island. Well-regulated with strong buyer protections built into the scheme conditions.

• Smart City Scheme — Modern integrated urban developments combining residential, commercial, and leisure spaces. Foreigners can also acquire serviced land within a Smart City, provided they build within 5 years.

• IRS and RES (Legacy Schemes) — The Integrated Resort Scheme and Real Estate Scheme predate the PDS and still exist within established developments. Secondary market purchases in these schemes carry the same residency benefits.

• Ground + 2 Apartments — Foreigners can purchase apartments in buildings of at least ground plus 2 floors anywhere in Mauritius for a minimum of MUR 6 million. This does not confer residency rights unless the purchase exceeds USD 375,000.

Note: Foreigners investing in property under EDB-approved schemes will face increased registration and transfer taxes from July 2026. If you are considering a purchase, it is worth moving sooner rather than later.

Read our full guide to buying property in Mauritius

Residency — How Property Investment Leads to Permanent Residence

Purchasing a property in an approved scheme for a minimum of USD 375,000 grants immediate permanent residence to the buyer and their dependants. This is one of the most straightforward residency pathways available when moving to Mauritius.

• The residence permit is valid for as long as the property is owned

• No prior permit is required before purchasing

• The permit allows the holder to live and work in Mauritius without a separate occupation permit

• Dependants (spouse and children under 24) are included under the same permit

• If purchasing through a company or other entity, the residency benefit can be nominated to an individual

Foreign direct investment in Mauritius real estate reached USD 530 million in 2024, a 13% increase from the prior year, reflecting strong and sustained demand from buyers across France, South Africa, the UK, Switzerland, and Germany.

Read our full guide to residency by property investment

The Process — How to Buy Property in Mauritius as a Foreigner

The purchase process in Mauritius is well-regulated and straightforward when guided correctly. The key steps are:

• Select a property in an EDB-approved scheme — villas, apartments, or penthouses depending on your budget and lifestyle

• Sign a Reservation Agreement (CRP — Contrat de Réservation Préliminaire) and pay a deposit into a notary escrow account to reserve the unit

• Obtain EDB authorisation — your notary submits proof of funds, passport copies, and KYC documents. This typically takes a few weeks

• Sign the Deed of Sale (Acte de Vente) before a Mauritian notary

• Residence permit issued upon completion of the purchase

TBI provides comprehensive support at every stage of the process, whether purchasing as an individual, through a company, or via a trust, guiding clients through each legal, financial, and procedural step.

Costs and Taxes — What Does It Cost to Buy Property in Mauritius?

Property in Mauritius spans a wide range. Entry-level Ground + 2 apartments start from MUR 6 million (approximately USD 130,000), while beachfront villas in premium PDS developments can reach several million dollars. In practice, finding a property in an approved scheme for under USD 500,000 is becoming increasingly difficult.

• Registration and transfer duties apply on all purchases and are set to increase from July 2026 for foreigners buying in approved schemes

• Notary fees are payable on the transaction

• No capital gains tax on the eventual sale of the property

• No inheritance tax on transfer of property upon death

If you are planning to buy property in Mauritius, acting before July 2026 will allow you to benefit from the current lower registration and transfer tax rates.

Read our detailed property buying guide for 2025/2026

Our Partner — Oakbridge Mauritius

Through our sister company, Oakbridge Mauritius, a boutique real estate agency specialising in high-end properties, we offer access to a refined portfolio of luxury villas, exclusive developments, and premium investment opportunities across the island. Oakbridge's market knowledge and personalised approach complement TBI's broader expertise in relocation, business advisory, and legal structuring.

Whether purchasing as an individual, through a company, or via a trust, we guide our clients through each legal, financial, and procedural step to ensure a secure and efficient acquisition.

Visit Oakbridge Mauritius

Moving to Mauritius as a Family

International Schools in Mauritius

Mauritius has a strong selection of international and private schools offering British, French, IB, and other curricula. Key schools include:

• Northfields International High School — Part of the global Inspired group (joined August 2024). Offers IB Middle Years, IGCSEs, IB Diploma, IB Career-related programme, and specialised plans. Located in the north.

• Le Bocage International School (LBIS) — Accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Mauritian Ministry of Education. Offers IB Middle Years, IGCSEs, IB Diploma, and BTEC. English and French as first languages, Spanish taught in Forms 1–3.

• IPS (International Preparatory School) — IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme for children aged 3–11. Prepares pupils for Northfields or Le Bocage.

• Westcoast International Secondary School (WISS) — Cambridge Lower Secondary in Forms 1–3, IGCSEs in Forms 4–5, IB Diploma in Form 6. Campuses in Cascavelle and Flic en Flac.

• Telfair International Primary School — Follows the British National Curriculum for children aged 5–11.

• Dukesbridge — English-medium international-style curriculum. Multiple campuses across Mauritius. Caters for ages 6 months to 11 years.

• French-curriculum schools — Including École du Nord and Lycée Labourdonnais for families following the French education system.

Note: Many international schools have waiting lists. Securing a school place should be one of the first steps when planning your move.

Read our full guide to international schools in Mauritius

Healthcare in Mauritius for Expats

Mauritius has a two-tier healthcare system. While public healthcare exists and is accessible to residents, we strongly recommend that all expats use private medical facilities and take out comprehensive private health insurance before arriving.

• Public healthcare: There are five major regional public hospitals, two district hospitals, and six specialized hospitals. Public facilities are free for Mauritian citizens, but non-citizens are billed for services. Public hospitals can be bureaucratic with longer wait times.

• Private healthcare: Mauritius has more than 30 private clinics offering a high standard of care. Key facilities include Wellkin Hospital (Moka), Moka Eye Hospital, and Clinique Darné. Mauritius is increasingly recognised as a medical tourism destination.

• Health insurance: We recommend getting coverage in place before you arrive. Options include local insurers (SICOM, Swan Life, CIM Finance) and international providers (Cigna, AXA, Allianz). For South Africans, check whether your existing medical aid has an extension for Mauritius. TBI can introduce you to a suitable health insurance provider based on your needs.

Read our full guide to healthcare in Mauritius

Safety & Quality of Life

Mauritius is consistently ranked the safest country in Africa and among the top 30 safest countries globally. Violent crime is rare. The primary concerns for residents are opportunistic burglary and petty theft, not a significant issue for those living in residential estates or developments with standard security.

Walking alone at night is comfortable, particularly in the North and West where most expats are based. Children can attend school and move around with confidence. The multicultural, English-French bilingual society is welcoming and community-oriented.

In the Global Retirement Report 2025, Mauritius ranked 2nd globally out of 44 countries (score: 89.24/100), excelling particularly in Safety & Integration (5th globally) and Procedure (3rd globally).

Bringing Pets to Mauritius

Mauritius has strict biosecurity laws for pet importation. Plan at least 3 to 4 months ahead — the process cannot be rushed. Key requirements include:

• Age: Puppies and kittens must be at least 7 months old to be eligible for relocation

• Import permit: Required from the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security — must be obtained at least 3 months before departure

• Microchipping: Must be completed prior to or at the same time as the rabies vaccination, conforming to ISO standard

• Vaccinations: Rabies plus standard vaccinations required (dogs: distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, leptospirosis; cats: feline enteritis, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus)

• Sterilisation: All cats and dogs must be sterilised before entry — no exceptions

• Travel: Pets must travel as manifest cargo only — not in cabin or as excess luggage

• Health certificate: Issued by a licensed vet within 48 hours of departure

• Quarantine: Minimum 5 days on arrival in Mauritius

• Prohibited breeds: Include American Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, and Staffordshire Terrier

After settling in, dogs must be registered with the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW). TBI can connect you with specialist pet relocation services.

Read our full guide to pet relocation in Mauritius

Logistics of Moving to Mauritius

Shipping Your Belongings to Mauritius

Most expats ship household goods to Mauritius by sea freight. A standard 20-foot container from the UK or Europe typically takes 3 to 5 weeks and costs USD 2,500 to 5,000. A 40-foot container costs USD 4,000 to 7,000. The main port of entry is Port Louis.

Duty-free import allowance: Permit holders are entitled to import household goods and personal effects duty-free once, within the first 12 months of arrival, provided the items are used and not for resale. This exemption can represent significant savings and should be planned carefully before your move.

TBI can introduce you to a trusted moving company to assist with the shipping and clearance process in Mauritius.

Driving and Vehicles in Mauritius

Mauritius drives on the left. Roads are generally in good condition, though traffic in Grand Baie and Port Louis can be congested during peak hours. A car is essential for most expats, particularly those living outside walking distance of towns.

• Driving licence: Foreign licences can be used for up to one year. After that, you convert to a Mauritius licence through the National Transport Authority (NTA) with minimal paperwork for most nationalities

• Buying a car: New cars attract high import duties in Mauritius, making them significantly more expensive than in Europe or South Africa. Second-hand vehicles are the most practical and popular choice

• Renting a car: A good option when you first arrive while you settle in and assess your longer-term needs

TBI can introduce you to a trusted car rental company for your arrival period, as well as a reliable car dealer when you are ready to purchase.

Opening a Bank Account in Mauritius

Opening a Mauritius bank account is a requirement for all permit applications. Accounts can be opened remotely before you arrive on the island. The main banks used by expats are MCB, Absa, Investec, and AfrAsia. Other options include the State Bank of Mauritius (SBM), HSBC Mauritius, and Bank One.

If opening an account remotely, banks require a minimum deposit:

• Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) — min. deposit USD 500,000

• Absa Bank Mauritius — min. deposit USD 10,000

• Investec — min. deposit USD 50,000

You will typically need a valid passport, proof of address, proof of source of funds, and sometimes a bank reference letter. TBI guides you through the banking process as part of our relocation service.

Internet and Connectivity

Mauritius has good broadband and mobile internet infrastructure. Fibre broadband is available in most urban and suburban areas through providers including My.T (Mauritius Telecom), Emtel, and Chili Fibre. Speeds of 50 to 200 Mbps are standard for residential connections. Mobile data is widely available and affordable across the island.

Climate and Weather in Mauritius

Mauritius has two main seasons. Understanding them is important when choosing where to live and when to plan your move.

• Summer (November to April): Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. This is also cyclone season. Mauritius is affected by tropical cyclones roughly every 2 to 5 years, though direct hits are rare. The north and west coasts are more sheltered and receive less rainfall in summer.

• Winter (May to October): Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C on the coast. This is the most pleasant time to visit and relocate. The south and east coasts tend to be windier and wetter year-round due to the south-east trade winds.

• North and West (Grand Baie, Tamarin, Flic en Flac): Driest and sunniest year-round, most popular with expats.

• Central Plateau (Moka, Curepipe): Cooler and wetter. Temperatures can drop to 14°C on winter evenings.