Mauritius, the undisputed jewel of the Indian Ocean, is currently experiencing a real estate boom, with the French leading the way. Since 2023, real estate acquisitions by French nationals have surged by 27%, with forecasts predicting 35% growth in 2025, according to the Economic Development Board of Mauritius. The numbers speak for themselves: Mauritius is attracting French investors in droves, and it’s no coincidence. Why has this island, located on the other side of the world, become an Eldorado for French investors? Three major factors explain this enthusiasm: ultra-competitive taxation, a paradise-like living environment, and a diversified real estate market that meets the aspirations of French citizens looking for new opportunities.
At a time when the morale of the French is at its lowest due to political instability and a general sense of insecurity, Pam Golding takes you behind the scenes of this phenomenal attraction to Mauritius and reveals how this enchanting destination is transforming the French real estate market in 2025.
A Tax Haven That Appeals to French Investors
Ultra-Advantageous Taxation: A 30% Gap Between France and Mauritius
French investors see Mauritius as a true tax haven. While France imposes up to 45% on real estate income, Mauritius applies a capped rate of 15% on earnings, with the added benefit of no capital gains tax after 5 years of ownership. This massive difference allows investors to optimize up to 30% of their investment profitability.
The Mauritian tax regime is one of the most attractive in the world, and the double taxation treaty between France and Mauritius prevents French investors from being taxed twice on their income. In other words, your capital can work for you without being eroded by excessive taxes.
For French investors and businesses, the reduced corporate tax rate of 15% represents an immediate savings of 10% compared to the 25% imposed in France, making real estate investments significantly more profitable in the long run.
Watch the Video of an Investment Example in a New Development:
Becoming a Resident in Mauritius Has Never Been Easier
Mauritius not only attracts with its tax advantages but also offers investment programs particularly suited to foreigners. The Property Development Scheme (PDS) allows non-residents to acquire freehold property with a minimum investment of USD 375,000 (around EUR 350,000). This threshold is affordable, especially considering that this investment grants a residence permit for the investor and their family. Furthermore, since 2024, the possibility of obtaining Mauritian citizenship after just 5 years of residence is a major incentive that is increasingly attracting French investors looking for long-term opportunities.
The acquisition process has been dramatically simplified, with a single window centralizing all administrative procedures. What was once an obstacle course with 6-month deadlines is now reduced to just 2 months. A revolution for those looking to seize opportunities quickly.
Unwavering resilience of the real estate market
The Mauritian real estate market has shown remarkable resilience in the face of global economic turbulence. After a slight stagnation during the Covid period, prices have resumed an upward trajectory with an average increase of 8% in 2023 and 12% in 2024 for high-end properties. Projections for 2025-2026 are equally promising, with expected growth of 10 to 15% depending on the area .
Traditionally popular regions such as Grand Baie, Tamarin or Beau Bassin continue to attract investors, but new areas are emerging in 2025. The development of the Smart City Scheme in Balaclava and Mont Choisy offers new investment opportunities with excellent value for money. The East Coast, which has long remained unspoiled, is also opening up to luxury real estate development with projects incorporating a strong ecological dimension.
The island’s political stability, a booming tourist market (+15% in 2024), and the absence of exchange controls complete a reassuring picture for foreign investors.
Exceptional Rental Yields
For those looking to maximize their investment, the rental demand remains extremely high due to the booming tourism industry and the growing number of remote workers and digital nomads. Rental yields on high-quality properties can reach up to 8% gross—significantly higher than those found in many major European cities.
The New Eldorado for French Citizens in Search of a New Way Of Life
The Mauritian Quality of Life as a Major Selling Point
Mauritius is not only attractive for its real estate market but also for its exceptional quality of life. With year-round temperatures ranging from 22°C to 31°C, the island is a true haven of peace, far from the harsh European winters. White sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, and pristine nature form an idyllic daily backdrop for expatriates seeking tranquility and well-being.
Another major advantage is safety. With one of the lowest crime rates in Africa, Mauritius offers great peace of mind for families. The country’s political stability, maintained since its independence in 1968, provides a secure environment for long-term investments.
In terms of infrastructure, Mauritius has made significant investments in recent years. The Mauritian healthcare system has been modernized with the opening of several internationally recognized private clinics, such as Clinique Darné and Clinique du Nord. The education system has also been enriched with international schools offering French, British, and IB curricula, ensuring educational continuity for expatriate children.
The Rise of Remote Work and Digital Nomads
In 2025, Mauritius has successfully capitalized on the remote work revolution. Since the introduction of the Premium Travel Visa, the island has become a top destination for French teleworkers. With over 3,000 French professionals benefiting from this visa in 2024 (+40%), Mauritius offers tax advantages and high-quality digital infrastructure, allowing entrepreneurs and freelancers to work while enjoying paradise.
The island is now one of the world’s leading hubs for digital nomads, and with 95% fiber optic coverage in residential areas, it provides optimal conditions for remote work.
The coworking ecosystem has also grown, with over 15 dedicated spaces in 2025, mainly concentrated in Port Louis, Ebène, and Grand Baie. These locations offer not only workspaces but also networking opportunities with the island’s international business community.
Easy Integration: A Warm Welcome and Strong Cultural Ties
French nationals find it easy to integrate into Mauritius, thanks to strong historical and cultural ties. French is widely spoken alongside English (the official language) and Mauritian Creole. This eliminates the language barrier that is often a challenge in other expatriation destinations.
The French community in Mauritius is well-established and continues to grow. In 2025, approximately 15,000 French nationals reside in Mauritius, creating a valuable support and social network for newcomers. Organizations like “Français de Maurice” and “Alliance Française de Maurice” regularly organize cultural events and networking activities.
Services tailored to expatriates have also expanded. Lycée des Mascareignes, a French National Education-accredited school, now accommodates over 800 students. More French-speaking medical practices and businesses offering French-imported products have also emerged.
French cultural influence is noticeable in many aspects of Mauritian daily life, from gastronomy to architecture, making it easier for new residents to adapt. This cultural familiarity, combined with the legendary openness and warmth of the Mauritians, allows for a smooth integration, without the culture shock sometimes felt in other exotic destinations.
Real Estate Opportunities For All Investor Profiles!
Retirement in the Sun: Investing in the High End of Mauritius
The Mauritian market offers a wide range of residential properties that meet the varied expectations of French investors. For those considering a retirement in the tropics or a second home, high-end villas and apartments are the most popular option.
In the luxury segment, villas with sea views or direct beach access remain the most sought-after. Prices in 2025 vary between 1 and 5 million euros depending on the location and services. The regions of Grand Baie, Tamarin and Beau Bassin concentrate the majority of the premium offer. These properties generally benefit from high-end amenities (infinity pool, tropical garden, advanced home automation) and 24-hour concierge and security services.
For a more affordable budget (between 350,000 and 800,000 euros ), luxury apartments in secure residences represent an interesting alternative. The concept of “service residences”, particularly suited to seniors, has been developing rapidly since 2023. These complexes integrate catering, maintenance, transport and even medical care services, offering an ideal living environment for a peaceful retirement.
Seasonal rental investment is also a profitable option. With an average tourist occupancy rate of 75% and gross yields ranging from 5% to 8% , well-located apartments offer an attractive valuation while allowing personal enjoyment for several weeks per year.
Wealth Strategy: Optimize Your Assets Over The Long Term
Beyond the residential aspect, Mauritian real estate is part of a logic of wealth diversification for many French investors. In a context of global economic uncertainty and inflationary fears , tangible assets such as real estate constitute an appreciable safe haven .
Real estate investment in Mauritius allows for geographical diversification of assets , limiting exposure to the specific risks of the French or European market. The island’s political stability and economic resilience make it a safe territory for long-term investments. In addition, the relatively low correlation between the Mauritian real estate market and international financial markets reinforces its role as a diversifier in a global portfolio.
The advantages in terms of wealth transfer are particularly notable. The absence of inheritance tax between spouses and direct line in Mauritius contrasts sharply with French taxation, where these taxes can reach 45%. Many French investors thus structure their wealth via real estate companies (SCI) under Mauritian law, optimizing the transmission to future generations.
Obtaining Mauritian tax resident status , accessible after having spent at least 183 days per year on the island for two consecutive years, constitutes a global wealth strategy for certain investors. This status allows you to fully benefit from the advantageous Mauritian tax regime on all worldwide income, subject to meeting the conditions of economic substance and effective residence.
Commercial Real Estate and Business Opportunities
The corporate real estate market in Mauritius offers interesting prospects for French investors. Freeport Zones and technology parks such as Ebène Cybercity are experiencing sustained development, driven by the growing presence of international companies.
The office sector is posting average yields of 7.5% in 2025 , higher than those observed in most European metropolises. Demand is particularly strong for medium-sized surfaces (150-300 m²) meeting the needs of French SMEs setting up on the island. Acquisition prices for category A offices range from 2,500 to 4,000 euros per m² depending on the location and services.
Commercial premises, particularly in developing shopping centres (malls) such as Bagatelle Mall or Bo’Valon Mall, also represent investment opportunities with average yields of 8.5%. . The growth in the purchasing power of the Mauritian middle class and the tourist influx support the demand for international brands, many of which are French.
Hotel and para-hotel investment has seen renewed interest since 2023 Boutique hotel and high-end tourist residence concepts are multiplying, driven by the vigorous recovery in post-Covid tourism. French investors can participate in these developments either through the acquisition of rooms or suites in dismemberment (with guaranteed returns generally between 4% and 6%), or through stakes in hotel development companies.
Final Thoughts: Why Mauritius is the Ultimate Investment Destination
In 2025, Mauritius firmly establishes itself as a must-visit destination for French investors. Its thriving real estate market, tax advantages, and dream lifestyle make it an obvious choice for those looking to diversify their assets or relocate. If you are seeking a high-return property investment or a place where you can combine quality of life and profitability, Mauritius should be at the top of your list. However, opportunities are limited, and the market is moving fast. Don’t miss your chance!
Born in Mauritius, I have a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication. I have nearly 12 years’ experience in marketing, public relations and communications. Passionate about meeting people, creativity and business growth, I am results-oriented. My goal is to guide communication to touch the hearts and minds of customers. My motto is: “Treat others as I would like to be treated.”
