Residency by investment programmes allow individuals and families to obtain the right to live in a country by making a qualifying financial contribution. These programmes are increasingly used by mobile professionals, investors, and retirees who want more flexibility, access to new markets, and a safe place to live.
There are more than 25 residency by investment options worldwide, including in Portugal, Greece, Malta, and Mauritius. While many of these are found in Europe, Mauritius has become a stable and well-managed alternative in the Indian Ocean. It offers several ways to gain residency, whether through property investment, business activity, professional employment, self-employment, or retirement.
The Mauritius framework
Through the Residence by Property Investment pathway, a non-citizen can obtain residency by investing at least USD 375,000 in an approved property development. The residency remains valid as long as the property is owned and can include the investor’s spouse or partner, dependent children up to age 24, and dependent parents.
Foreign nationals can purchase property under regulated schemes such as the Property Development Scheme (PDS), Smart City Scheme, or Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS). The process is supervised by the Economic Development Board, providing clarity and compliance with local laws. Property buyers benefit from full foreign ownership rights and can freely repatriate funds when selling their property. To learn more about buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner, click here for the latest rules.
How Mauritius compares with other leading jurisdictions
While several European programmes focus on mobility within the Schengen Area, Mauritius appeals to those who prefer a secure location outside Europe. The country offers lifestyle benefits, efficient administration, and a clear tax and legal system. These elements make Mauritius a practical option for investors and their families.
| Country | Minimum Investment | Key Benefit | Residence Requirement |
| Greece | EUR 250,000 (real estate) | Schengen access | None |
| Portugal | EUR 500,000 (real estate) | EU residence and travel | Minimal |
| Malta | EUR 250,000 (government contribution and real estate) | Schengen residence | None |
| Mauritius | USD 375,000 (approved real estate) | Permanent residence for investor and family | None |
A broader residency landscape
Beyond property investment, Mauritius provides several additional residence categories to accommodate different professional and personal profiles. The Investor Permit and Self-Employed Permit cater to business founders and independent professionals wishing to establish or manage operations locally. The Occupation Permit allows foreign professionals to live and work in Mauritius under defined income thresholds.
For those planning to retire, the Retirement Permit provides a simple and accessible route. Applicants aged 50 or above can obtain a 10-year renewable permit by transferring at least USD 2,000 per month or USD 24,000 per year to Mauritius. The funds may be used freely for living expenses, and there is no minimum stay requirement. After five years, retirees who have transferred at least USD 200,000 in total may qualify for a 20-year permanent residence permit, offering long-term stability.
Transparency and inclusion
Mauritius is known for strong governance, transparency, and alignment with international standards. It offers consistent policies, a straightforward tax system with no capital gains or inheritance taxes, and an efficient processing framework through the Economic Development Board. Residency applies to the entire family, reflecting a welcoming and long-term approach to settlement.
A practical and reliable choice
While many residency by investment programmes focus mainly on travel benefits, Mauritius offers a more complete lifestyle option. It combines a solid legal and financial system with accessible living, a bilingual workforce, and political stability. This balance of structure, security, and quality of life makes Mauritius a trusted choice for investors and families who want a long-term residence base. Click here to learn more about living in Mauritius.
How We Can Help
We assist individuals and families with securing residence in Mauritius, whether as a backup option for diversification or when relocating permanently and seeking tax residency. Our team also supports clients with property investment through our real estate agency, provides concierge services for those spending time in Mauritius, and assists with business structuring when setting up companies. We handle the entire process from start to finish to ensure a smooth and compliant experience.
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.
