Frequently Asked Questions

Mauritius is a tropical island on the southeast coast of Africa.  

The island’s land mass measures 2,040 km2, and is 65km long x 45km wide. It is the most popular destination in the Indian Ocean, because of its appealing tropical climate and natural attractions from magnificent beaches to glorious mountains. It’s also the happiest country on the African continent, according to the World Happiness Report 2020 published by the United Nations. 

Mauritius has an excellent international reputation due to its political and economic stability, secure legal framework, attractive taxation policies and solid banking system, among others. In addition, the government continues to introduce programmes to facilitate real estate investment in Mauritius. 

We offer the following support to help you buy a residence quickly and easily:

• Organisation of on-site inspections 
• Assistance during the buying and application process
• Assistance to prepare power of attorney, if required
• Assistance in applying for permanent residency
• Contract translations
• Referral of external partners if assistance or advice is required on topics such as law, taxes and financing
• Liaison during the construction phase
• After-sales service.

A buyer who spends more than USD 375,000 or its equivalent in any freely convertible foreign currency on a property qualifies for permanent residency for them, their spouse, their children and their parents if they are financially dependent on them. 

Properties are sold and transferred to purchasers under the VEFA (vente en l’état futur d’achèvement). The VEFA allows investors to buy property that has yet to be built or is under construction. Thus, the seller or developer undertakes to deliver that property to the buyer when construction is complete. The VEFA is a notarial deed of sale that must be signed by the buyer or a designated person with power of attorney in front of the project notary in Mauritius. However, 2Futures can assist the buyer if they are unable to be in Mauritius for this occasion. A notary fee of 1% plus VAT is applicable. 

In accordance with the provisions of the Civil Code, latent defects of a non–structural nature are covered by a biennial warranty also known as the proper operation warranty in respect of equipment and fixtures. The latent defects of a structural nature are covered by a decennial warranty. The developer will take out latent defects insurance to cover the latter warranty. There will also be insurance cover for 10 years covering inherent defects in the building structure. 

Mauritius has signed a double taxation agreement with more than 40 countries, including France. Income tax for individuals and businesses is 15%. There is no capital gains tax, and no inheritance tax.

Mauritius is one of the best places in the world to retire because of the attractive tax system. In addition, you get access to improved quality of life, which has a positive effect on health and well-being. Living in the island style never loses its appeal.

Retired noncitizens of Mauritius, aged 50 and more, can apply for a permit to live in Mauritius. There are some financial conditions. An initial transfer of at least USD1,500 or its equivalent in freely convertible foreign currency must be made to their local bank account in Mauritius. The same amount must be transferred monthly thereafter. In the 10 years of the permit’s validity, at least USD54,000 or its equivalent in freely convertible foreign currency must be accumulated. Evidence of the fund transfers must be supplied to the EDB at the end of each year.

The island’s land mass measures 2,040km². That’s 65km long x 45km wide.

This tropical island is on the southeast coast of Africa.

British Airways, Air Mauritius and Tui all provide direct flights from London to Mauritius.  

In addition, Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, Air Austral, Emirates (two flights daily), South African Airways and KLM all fly direct to Mauritius.  

The Mauritian summer is November to April. Temperatures vary between 25°C and 33°C. It is a tropical island so it can be humid. In winter, which is May to October, temperatures range between 17°C and 25°C. You can swim in the sea all year round. The water temperature is a wonderful 23°C to 28°C throughout the year.

English is the official language. French, Creole and Asian languages are also spoken.

The population is around 1,3 million. It is multicultural, multi-ethnic and multireligious. The islanders live in harmony. Mauritius has a large expat community mainly from France, the UK and South Africa. 

According to the World Happiness Report published by the UN, Mauritius is still the happiest country on the African continent.
https://worldhappiness.report/ed/2020/?fbclid=IwAR2NwyOZFplmblRfJKT7cC-qJfakdxViD57dS4qAwkaFKvXqO5c3wzJj5gY

Mauritius is a multiparty parliamentary democracy. The ruling party is the Militant Socialist Movement (MSM). Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth secured a five-year term in the 2019 election.

Mauritius is three hours ahead of Europe in winter and two hours in summer. South Africa is two hours behind Mauritius.

Infrastructures and facilities are modern, especially in the private hospitals and clinics. Public and private healthcare facilities are across the island. Many foreigners travel to Mauritius for cosmetic surgery, dentistry and hair grafting. Wellkin Hospital, the largest private hospital in Mauritius and part of the CIEL Healthcare network, does cardiac and spinal surgeries and high-end orthopaedic and urological procedures as well. Outcomes are really successful.

A pro golfer will smile if you ask them that question. They’ll say it depends on the day. Mauritius has so many amazing golf courses. You can play 9 to 18 holes amid the most spectacular scenery. Mont Choisy Le Golf on the Mont Choisy Golf and Beach Estate is the only 18-hole world-championship golf course in the north. A property purchase here gets you an exclusive and much sought-after membership.

There are good public and private schools. If you want to get your children into the English private schools, send in your applications long in advance so as not to be disappointed.

When you move to Mauritius you can use your own valid domestic licence or an international licence to drive for one month. You need to get a local licence after that.

Traffic is heavy in peak times and around the main business areas. Plan your trips to avoid being on the road then, if you can.

People love to swim, kite, stand-up paddle (SUP), snorkel, hike, cliff jump as well as walk in the nature reserves and mountains and along the beach. There is nothing wrong with lazing on the beach too. Don’t forget your sunscreen, umbrella and hat. In the west, a hike up Le Morne is a must. A hike to the Tamarin Falls is also an incredible experience, as is a visit to the Black River Gorges National Park.

South/southwest: The west is famous for its great kitesurfing conditions. Le Morne’s large lagoon and soft wave break is recommended. More advanced riders can try the One Eye reef break.

North: Cap Malheureux is an option but it is tidal so water levels fluctuate. You can SUP at many of the beaches along the coast though.