Vehicles

Getting your car to Mauritius is possible but not always practical.

There are a few things to consider:

Buying a car in Mauritius can be expensive, but that depends on what model you like.
Importing your own car can cost up to around EUR4,000.
If you bring in your own car it must have been registered in your name, in your country of residence, for at least six months before your arrival on the island.
You will need to get certification from the National Transport Authority (NTA) to drive the car in Mauritius. They might also request modifications on the car besides paying a 15% tax on the cost, insurance and freight as well as a further 15% VAT payment.
You need a car with a right-hand steering wheel as cars drive on the left-hand side of the road in Mauritius. (That means drivers must give way to traffic coming from the right.)

So, you decide to buy a car on the island. What next?

It’s easier if you buy a new car through a reputable, authorised car dealership.

If you go direct, you must get a registration book from the owner of the car as well as two originals of the Deed of Sale and proof of full payment for the vehicle from the NTA.

Only then can you register the car in your name by paying registration fees at the Registrar Building in Port Louis. You can then collect your car’s registration card from the NTA.

As is the case whenever you buy a new car, check on parts availability and ease of maintenance. Asian brands are the most affordable. Think Toyota, Honda, Kia, Suzuki, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Mazda). European brands are more expensive in Mauritius. Think BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Renault, etc.

Financing is also easier through car dealerships as they have relationships with banks that finance these deals. Leasing is often a cheaper and easier alternative to buying a new car in Mauritius.

Car insurance

Car insurance is essential. Expats must secure comprehensive auto insurance. This will protect them against any losses or liability in the event of an accident, physical damage to the vehicle, theft, political violence coverage, and similar.

There are several car insurance companies on the island. Contracts vary and price is subject to conditions. When comparing quotes, check the excess amount. Also establish cover in case of loss of use, agreed or guaranteed insured value, and who is covered to drive the car.

Driving in Mauritius

Speed limits are 40 km/h in the city, 80 km/h on main roads and 110 km/h on some stretches of highway.

You must renew your car licence within 15 days of its expiry. If you don’t, you’ll have to pay a fine of 50% of the amount due when you renew it.

Notify the Road Transport Commissioner in writing if you intend not to renew your car licence for any reason. That note must reach them on or before the expiry date otherwise the fine will be applicable.

In Mauritius, the car licence fee or declaration is road tax. You can pay it over three to 12 months at a post office if you don’t miss the deadline for renewal. The amount payable depends on the engine capacity of your car. Remember to take your valid insurance certificate, registration certificate (horsepower) and certificate of driving fitness with you.