FAQ’s

Living in Mauritius offers a range of benefits, including a stable political and economic environment, a uniquely multicultural and friendly society, and stunning natural scenery along with it’s beautiful beaches.

The cost-of-living in Mauritius is low to average compared to developed countries and the healthcare system is of a high standard. There are tax incentives for foreign residents and English is widely spoken. The economy in the country is growing, presenting opportunities for those wanting to start businesses in Mauritius. Overall, Mauritius is a very attractive place to live.

The Mauritian government and local communities are welcoming to foreign residents, making moving to Mauritius relatively easy.

If you’re thinking of relocating, you’ll find many resources available to help with the transition, such as expat forums and support groups, and of course the services of companies like 1865, that can help with all the paperwork and offer the best relocation advice.

Overall, with a little planning and preparation, and the help of relocation experts, you’ll find that moving to Mauritius can be a positive experience.

Mauritius offers many advantages for those looking to invest. You’ll find that the growing tourism industry, developing financial services sector and burgeoning real estate market make the country an attractive destination for foreign investment.

The favourable tax system, which includes no capital gains tax, personal and corporate tax rates of 15% and foreign income tax exemptions are positive points for potential investors.

Mauritius has a good infrastructure, and the transportation network is solid with a new metro light rail system servicing the central region. The country also boasts a multilingual and well-educated workforce and access to African and Indian Ocean markets.

Mauritius makes a great retirement destination for a lot of people. The beautiful natural scenery is a great drawcard for many. Mauritius is known for its beautiful beaches and forests and if you enjoy an active and fit lifestyle, it offers a variety of outdoor activities. Golf enthusiasts will be glad to hear that there are ten excellent golf courses on the island. Most of these courses have been designed by renowned professional golfers like Rodney Wright or Ernie Els. 

The healthcare system in Mauritius is good and retirees will appreciate the many beautiful resorts and restaurants on the island. The weather in Mauritius is another positive, with many people enjoying the tropical warm weather all year round.

Read our blog article about the Benefits of Retiring to Mauritius.

Healthcare at public hospitals in Mauritius is free for all residents and locals. Mauritius has five regional and two district hospitals. There are a number of private clinics and facilities on the island that are not free, and offer certain advanced treatments. Many people relocating to Mauritius choose to maintain some form of health cover to ensure they can receive the treatment they need.

Mauritius is considered a safe place to live. Mauritius is 1 of 10 countries in the world that happens to be free from conflict. There is some petty crime which is what really determines the extremely low crime rate. Generally, people living on the island find it a safe and pleasant environment.

If you buy property in Mauritius costing $375,000 or more, in one of the qualified developments or schemes, you will obtain a Permanent Residence permit, and you will be able to earn a salary or invest in any company of your choice.

Speak to us about obtaining a Permanent Residency Permit by acquiring property.

Mauritius has a growing economy and a need for skilled professionals. Depending on your skills, experience, and industry, you may find it easy to find a job. Some industries in Mauritius that are growing and may have job opportunities for expats include:

• Tourism and hospitality
• Information technology and software development
• Financial services and offshore banking
• Manufacturing and export-oriented businesses
• Healthcare and medical services

Expats who speak English, French, or Creole, and who have relevant work experience and qualifications may have an advantage in finding a job in Mauritius.

There are several popular areas for expats to live in Mauritius, and other areas may also be suitable depending on individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider when choosing a location to live in Mauritius include proximity to your place of work, beaches, schools, shopping centres, transportation options, and community resources. 

We also offer a Property Brokerage Service, chat with me today about helping you find the perfect Property in Mauritius.

If you’d like to know more get in touch with us.

English and French are generally accepted as the official languages of Mauritius, but 90% of the population can speak Mauritian Creole. French is the language of education, but English is also commonly taught in schools. English is also the official language of parliament.

In the primary and secondary schools in Mauritius, students are taught in either French or English, depending on the school. Both languages are used as mediums of instruction and are important for communication, education, and employment in the country.

In addition to English and French, students may also study other languages. Creole is also taught in some schools, especially those in rural areas where it is more widely spoken.

The education system in Mauritius is based on the British model and is divided into pre-primary, primary, secondary, and higher education levels. The curriculum for these schools is set by the Ministry of Education and Human Resources

There are also several international schools in the country, offering programs based on different curricula, including the British, American, and International Baccalaureate systems.

Higher education in Mauritius includes universities, colleges, and polytechnics, offering a range of programs in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and business.

Most dogs and cats can be brought to Mauritius, but you will need to complete documentation and paperwork. Let us help you with the necessary requirements for bringing a pet to Mauritius.

It is relatively easy to make your way around the island and there are several hubs that provide various amenities which include pharmacies, shopping centres, restaurants, cinema’s, furniture stores and so on and so forth. It is, however, sometimes difficult to know where to go to, to get reliable services and those necessities that one is used to coming from a more developed bigger country. Things such as domestic services, household maintenance, wellness centres, architect services or even finding a reputable taxi. This is where 1865 can step in and put you in touch with their hand-picked service providers on the ground. They are hand-picked for a reason: reliable, dependable, trustworthy and professional. 

Contact us to find out more about our Concierge Services.

Citizens of most countries don’t require a visa to enter Mauritius or will be issued a visa on arrival for tourism or short stays. If you’re looking for a permanent residency visa, you will need to apply.

If you intend on staying in Mauritius for more than 180 days of the year, you will need a residency visa.

The visa requirements for Mauritius vary depending on why you are visiting the country. There are three types of visas available for foreign visitors to Mauritius:

1. Tourist visa: for leisure travel, usually valid for up to 90 days. Citizens of most countries do not need a visa or may obtain a visa on arrival to Mauritius for tourism purposes.
2. Business visa: for conducting business activities, usually valid for up to 6 months.
3. Residence visa and Occupational permits: for those who intend to reside in Mauritius, such as retirees, investors, professionals or employees. There are different types of residence visas, including for investors, entrepreneurs, retirees, and employees. Each category has different eligibility criteria and requirements.

If you are looking for a residency visa, you may want to speak to an expert about the exact requirements needed. 1865 can help you with all visa and permit enquiries. Contact us for personalised service.

The program provides immediate permanent residency status for foreigners who invest a minimum of USD $375,000 in either a designated real estate project or a local business.

If you are looking for a Residency by Investment visa, you may want to speak to an expert about the exact requirements needed. 1865 can help you with all visa and permit enquiries. Contact us for personalised service.

An Occupational Permit can be obtained giving you the right to work and reside in Mauritius. There are three categories of Occupational Permit: Investor, Innovator and Self-Employed.

• Investor Occupation Permit
  Foreign nationals can apply for an investor Occupation Permit under the following three options: invest USD $50,000 in a business activity; invest in a business with a Net Asset Value of USD $50,000; or invest in High-Technology Machines and Equipment to the value of USD $25,000, together with an additional USD $25,000 investment.

Let 1865 help you obtain an Investor Occupation Visa – speak to us and we’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact us today.

• Self-Employed Occupation Permit
  The Self-Employed Occupation Permit is ideal for freelancers wanting to relocate. A minimum investment of USD $35,000 is required in a professional activity, along with letters of intent from clients.

1865 can help you obtain a Self-Employed Occupation Visa – Contact us today.

• Innovator Occupation Permit
  The Innovator Occupation Permit is for innovators and entrepreneurs investing in start-ups and Research and Development (R&D) projects on the island. The minimum investment criteria do not apply for this category, but a thorough business plan is needed.

1865 can help you obtain an Innovator Occupation Visa – Contact us today.

To apply for a retirement visa, you need to be 50 years old or above. You then need to transfer a minimum monthly amount of $1,500 or an annual transfer of at least $18,000 to a local bank account in Mauritius. You may not earn a living in Mauritius under the retirement visa.

If you are looking for a retirement visa, you may want to speak to an expert about the exact requirements needed. 1865 can help you with all visa and permit enquiries. Contact us for personalised service.