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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.

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Foreigners can move to Mauritius by retiring here, investing in property, setting up a business or working here. If you are over 50, you can move to Mauritius on a 10-year retirement visa by showing a monthly income of at least USD 2,000 in a local bank account. Those who wish to make Mauritius their permanent home can also move to Mauritius by buying a property worth at least USD 375,000, which grants permanent residence. This property investment leads to permanent residence. Investors planning to move to Mauritius through business can invest a minimum of USD 50,000 and apply for a 10-year investor permit.  Self-employed individuals can work remotely in Mauritius by putting in at least USD 50,000 and obtain a 10-year self-employed permit. Foreigners who already have a job offer from an employer here, can also move to Mauritius on a professional permit.

We are a team of immigration consultants in Mauritius, helping you navigate every step of your move to Mauritius. We provide relocation services, from permit applications to real estate, setting up a business, and finding a school for your children. 

Our Relocation Services Include:

  • Visas and permits: We help you determine the right visa or permit for relocating to Mauritius and assist with the application process.

  • Relocation assistance: We help you with all aspects of moving to Mauritius, including finding accommodation, guiding you on schooling options and pet relocation. We also provide guidance on cars, tax and insurance.

  • Business setup: We can help in setting up your business in Mauritius and connect you with partners for advisory, tax and accounting, and legal services.

  • Property search: We can help you find accommodation, based on your budget, needs, and preferences. We also provide advice and guidance regarding real estate investment in Mauritius.

  • Settling in assistance: We help you settle into Mauritius by helping you set up utilities such as opening a bank account. We also provide guidance on the cost of living, schooling options and how to live comfortably here.

Immigration to Mauritius

Immigration to Mauritius can be attained in several ways: Foreigners can emigrate to Mauritius by working here, retiring or by buying property. To move to Mauritius, you can choose between the Residence Permit, Occupation Permit or Permanent Residence Permit. The Premium visa is a long-term visa that allows foreigners to live in Mauritius for 1 year. With years of experience as immigration experts in Mauritius, we can guide you through the best option of moving to Mauritius.

The Immigration Act Mauritius

The Immigration Act Mauritius contains most of the relevant law for those considering moving to Mauritius. To gain a residence permit through purchasing property in Mauritius, the minimum investment is USD 375,000. The Immigration Act also states that the Investor Permit and the Self-Employed Permit is valid for 10 years while a Permanent Residence Permit, for 20 years. The Immigration Act Mauritius gives the legal framework for the various Occupation Permits and Residence Permits.

Types of Permits in Mauritius

Residency options when moving to Mauritius include the Residence Permit, Occupation Permit and the Permanent Residence Permit.

  • The Occupation Permit is a combined work and residence permit that allows foreign nationals to live and work in Mauritius for a maximum period of ten years, renewable under specific conditions. Working professionals, foreign investors and self-employed individuals can apply for the Occupation Permit. 
  • The Residence Permit is for foreign retirees and dependents of Occupation Permit or Residence Permit holders. Foreign retirees over 50 can apply for the Retired Permit in Mauritius.
  • The Permanent Residence Permit allows non-citizens to live and work in Mauritius for 20 years. One way of getting permanent residence is by investing $375,000 in a business activity in Mauritius. Other ways of getting permanent residence are through an occupation permit and a retirement permit. This would mean being a holder of the permit for at least 5 years and meeting other conditions. Read more on the conditions here.

Why move to Mauritius?

More and more foreigners are considering moving to Mauritius for the following reasons:

  • Stable economic growth: According to the Bank of Mauritius, GDP growth for 2025 is projected between 3.0% and 3.5% showing a steady economic stability. 
  • Favourable business environment: With a stable legal framework and a 15% corporate tax rate, Mauritius remains one of Africa’s leading destinations for investors and entrepreneurs looking to move to Mauritius.
  • Attractive tax regime: Mauritius has no capital gains or inheritance taxes, and a top personal income tax rate of 20%, making it one of the most appealing tax jurisdictions.
  • Thriving real estate sector: Foreign direct investment in real estate rose by 13% to MUR 24 billion (USD 530 million) in 2024, representing 73% of total FDI. Buyers from France and South Africa lead the market, showing growing international confidence in moving to Mauritius.
  • Secure property market: Over 1,500 expatriates have moved to Mauritius over the past decade through property-linked residency, with the Economic Development Board confirming the sector’s full compliance and transparency.
  • Happiness destination: Renowned as Africa’s top happiness destination, Mauritius provides a great quality of life. Moving to Mauritius means living in safety with quality private healthcare, a multicultural environment, and access to international healthcare.

Moving to Mauritius As A Family

Moving to Mauritius as a family has many advantages for a good family life. The country has a range of international schools that provide a high-quality education with a global perspective. Mauritius also has a low crime rate, ensuring the safety of your family. With a focus on family-friendly activities and a strong sense of community, Mauritius is a great place to raise a family. Mauritius also has several family-friendly hotels for those who are looking for a family trip to Mauritius. As immigration consultants in Mauritius, we can help you decide if choosing Mauritius as your new family’s home is the right decision.

Cost of living

The cost of living is known to be generally more affordable than Western Europe or North America. Accommodation costs can range from USD 500 to USD 5000 per month, depending on location and amenities, while education costs can vary. Government-run schools are free, but international private schools may be costly. Other essentials like food, transportation, utilities, and healthcare are relatively affordable. For a family of four, a monthly budget of approximately MUR 100,000 to 200,000 provides a comfortable, non-extravagant life in Mauritius.

Setting up a business in Mauritius

Moving to Mauritius is attractive to investors and entrepreneurs due to its stable economy, business-friendly legal framework, and favourable tax policies. The country offers a variety of licenses, including the Global Business License (GBL), making it easy to establish different types of businesses. Additionally, Mauritius has a thriving fintech sector. To set up a business, you will need to register your company, select the right license, and understand the tax implications. You may also consider property investment and the advantages of operating in Mauritius. Here, at TBI Mauritius, we can help you choose the right business structure, register your company, and obtain the necessary licenses and permits.

Property Investment in Mauritius

Moving to Mauritius can be lucrative for investors looking to invest in real estate, whether they hold a residence permit or not. Property investment can take various forms, including through companies, trusts, foundations, or sociétés, with the Property Development Scheme (PDS) being a popular choice. To qualify for a residence permit, a minimum investment of USD 375,000 in residential property is necessary. Smart Cities, known for their eco-friendly living spaces, also attract foreign investors. Mauritius’s stable environment, tax benefits, and legal protections make real estate investment a reason to relocate to Mauritius. We can connect you with trusted real estate agents and relevant authorities to help you explore property investment options based on your budget, preferences and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I live in Mauritius permanently?

There are four main pathways to living permanently in Mauritius:

  • Property Investment: Buying a residential property worth at least USD 375,000 will grant you permanent residence for as long as you own it.
  • Retirement Permit: If you are 50+, show a monthly income of USD 2,000 in a Mauritius bank account for a 10-year permit. After 5 years, you can apply for a 20-year permit by showing USD 200,000 over 5 years.
  • Investor Permit: Apply for a 10-year permit by investing USD 50,000 in a business. After 5 years, you can apply for a 20-year permit by meeting turnover requirements.
  • Self-employed Permit: Apply for a 10-year permit by investing USD 50,000 in a one-person company. After 5 years, you can apply for a 20-year permit by meeting turnover requirements.
  • Occupation Permit: A combined work and residence permit valid for up to 10 years. Available to working professionals, investors, and the self-employed.
  • Residence Permit: For retirees (50+) and dependants of Occupation or Residence Permit holders. 
  • Permanent Residence Permit: Valid for 20 years, this permit is available through investment or after 5 years on a qualifying permit.
How much does it cost to live comfortably in Mauritius?

A family of four living comfortably typically needs USD 50,000–70,000 per year (approx. MUR 100,000–200,000/month).

Mauritius is widely regarded as one of the most tax-friendly jurisdictions globally:

  • No capital gains tax
  • No inheritance or estate tax
  • Corporate tax rate of 15%
  • Top personal income tax rate of 20%
  • Extensive double-taxation treaty network (over 45 countries)

To learn more about how tax applies to non-citizens, go to this page. We strongly recommend taking professional tax advice; our team can connect you with qualified advisors.

Can foreigners buy property in Mauritius?

Foreigners can buy property only within approved schemes in Mauritius. The most popular is the Property Development Scheme (PDS). Foreigners can also invest through Smart Cities projects. The minimum investment for a property-linked residence permit is USD 375,000.

Our sister real estate agency, Oakbridge Mauritius, takes a different approach to most agents on the island; they work exclusively for buyers, never representing sellers or taking fees from both sides of a deal. This means they can search the whole market, including off-market properties, with no conflicts of interest.

Yes, if you purchase a qualifying residential property worth at least USD 375,000, you (and your dependants) receive a Residence Permit that is valid for as long as you own the property. 

Is Mauritius a good place to raise a family?

Mauritius consistently ranks as Africa’s safest and most liveable country. For families, the key draws are:

  • Low crime rate and strong community feel
  • A range of international schools (French, British, IB curricula)
  • Quality private healthcare
  • A multicultural, multilingual (English + French) society
  • Year-round warm climate and outdoor lifestyle

The official languages in Mauritius are English and French, and both are widely used in business, government, and daily life. Mauritian Creole is the most spoken everyday language among locals. Most educated Mauritians speak at least two of these fluently, meaning integration is easy for English and French speakers alike.

What Can TBI Business Advisors Do For You

  • We will have a Zoom/ Teams call or email exchange to understand your requirements.
  • TBI will advise on the appropriate permit or visa for coming to Mauritius.
  • We will send a detailed proposal with clear costs, timeframes and explanations.
  • We will assemble the documents and make the application on your behalf.
  • TBI can assist with relocation tasks such as helping with schools, accommodation, insurance, choosing locations.
  • We can assist with the finding and purchasing of property, and setting up of an entity to purchase through.
  • If you need assistance with setting up companies whether as an investor or just creating a business here.
  • The directors can act as Commissioner for Oaths.
  • We can assist with other business advice and can bring in law firms as and when required.

While every effort is made to ensure that the information given is accurate, the information on this site does not contain legal, tax or any other professional advice. We accept no responsibility or liability due to any information or representation, whether accurate or not, relied upon in the contents. It is an information guide to provide the reader with a useful general, but basic understanding of the different considerations. You must seek local legal, tax or other professional advice before relying on the contents of this site.

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