Mauritius, a paradise island in the Indian Ocean, attracts more and more expatriates who want to settle there to enjoy its exceptional living environment and attractive tax system. However, investing in Mauritius without being a Mauritian citizen raises many questions. Is it possible to become a resident or even a citizen through a real estate investment? The answer is yes, but there are several paths to explore.
PAM Golding explains all the options available to you to obtain a resident visa in Mauritius, the requirements to apply for citizenship, and the mistakes to avoid when investing.
The different options for obtaining a resident visa
The Investor Visa: A Gateway to Residency
One of the most direct ways to obtain residency in Mauritius is to become a real estate investor. If you intend to buy a property in Mauritius , you can obtain a resident visa, and this is quite quick.
Eligibility criteria for investor visa
To obtain this visa, the investor must purchase a property worth at least USD 375,000 (approximately EUR 350,000) in a real estate project validated by the government. This amount allows entry into real estate projects that qualify for a permanent resident visa for the investor and his family (spouse and children).
📊 Minimum investment amount :
| Investment Type | Minimum Amount Required | Visa Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Residence, Tourism) | 375 000 USD (350 000 EUR) | 6 months to 1 year |
Why is this visa so popular? In addition to the possibility of obtaining a resident visa, this program allows you to benefit from advantageous tax conditions. In Mauritius, the tax rate is 15% , and there is no tax on real estate capital gains or dividends. This is a significant advantage for foreign investors.
👉 Tip : Pay attention to acquisition costs (taxes, notaries, etc.), which can amount to 7 to 8% of the purchase price. Make sure that the chosen real estate complies with all government standards to avoid any risk.
The Retired Resident Visa: For non-working people
If you are retired, the resident visa may also be a viable option. This visa is designed for people who are over 50 years old and who wish to live in Mauritius with a stable income from abroad.
Conditions for retirees
You must prove a monthly income of around USD 1,500 (approximately EUR 1,200). This visa is valid for 10 years and can be renewed.
🌴 Example : A retired couple with a stable pension could obtain this visa and live comfortably in Mauritius, without worrying about complex administrative procedures.
The option of acquiring property to obtain nationality
Investing in Real Estate: A Path to Nationality
You can also acquire Mauritian citizenship through a real estate investment. However, this is not an immediate option. There are several conditions that must be met to achieve this.
Conditions and process for obtaining Mauritian nationality
If you have invested and lived in Mauritius for 5 years, you can apply for Mauritian citizenship, provided you can demonstrate continuous residence. The important thing is to remain a tax resident of the island during this period, which allows you to benefit from a permanent visa. This process is usually long and requires strict monitoring.
🔑 Key figure : You need 5 years of continuous residence in Mauritius to be eligible for nationality.
Other ways to obtain a resident visa
The work visa: When employment opens doors for you
If you are not interested in real estate investment but want to settle in Mauritius to work, the work visa may be an option. Expats in specific sectors like tourism , finance , or information technology may find opportunities.
Conditions for obtaining a work visa
You need to find a job in a company registered in Mauritius, and the salary must be above 30,000 MUR (around 600 EUR) per month.
📈 Key figure : In 2020, 45% of work visas were issued in the information and communication technology sectors.
Marriage: The Fast Track, But With Conditions
Marriage to a Mauritian citizen can also open the way to a resident visa, but this requires meeting certain administrative conditions. The marriage must have taken place at least 3 years before you can apply for Mauritian citizenship, and you will have to prove the sincerity of your relationship.
💍 Tip : If you choose this option, it is important to keep in mind that the process is often faster but also more monitored.
What are the risks and pitfalls to avoid?
Beware of real estate scams
The real estate market in Mauritius can sometimes hide scams. Before committing to an investment, it is essential to check that the real estate project is certified by the Mauritian Government.
Practical advice
Trust only real estate developers with a verifiable reputation like PAM Golding. Take advice from specialised lawyers to secure your transaction.
🛑 Warning : Avoid real estate projects outside government approved areas as these may result in the loss of your resident visa.
Mauritius remains a destination of choice for investors and expats looking for new opportunities. Whether you are ready to invest in real estate, settle down for retirement or embark on a new career, there are many options for obtaining a resident visa. However, it is crucial to understand the criteria of each program, avoid the pitfalls of the real estate market and seek advice from the right people.
📊 Summary of options for obtaining a visa in Mauritius :
| Option | Minimum Investment | Deadline for Residency | Additional Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investor Visa | 375 000 USD | 6 months to 1 year | Buy in an approved real estate project |
| Retired Resident Visa | 1 500 USD monthly income | 10 years | Be retired, over 50 years old |
| Work Visa | According to salary | Immediate | Be employed in a priority sector |
| Marriage to a Mauritian | No minimum investment | 3 years for nationality | Proof of the sincerity of the marriage |
Invest in Mauritius and prepare to discover a tax-efficient environment, but make sure you understand the criteria before embarking on the adventure!
📈 Take the first step towards your residence in Mauritius today! 🌴
Manager in Digital Marketing and Content Creation at Pam Golding Properties Mauritius, Mathieu Duez leverages his expertise in both real estate and hospitality to craft impactful digital strategies. With a passion for creating engaging content, he connects brands with their audiences through innovative and targeted marketing approaches.
