Living in Mauritius: The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know to settle in Mauritius — written from the ground by the Westimmo team, and connected to our detailed guides.
Why so many expatriates choose Mauritius
A safe, bilingual island 11–12 hours from Europe with almost no jet lag (2–3 hours depending on season), Mauritius combines a tropical setting, readable taxation (15% income tax, no property tax on occupation, no wealth tax, no inheritance tax between direct relatives), international schools and good private healthcare. This guide sits on top of our field articles — written from our Tamarin agency — to build your project step by step.
Choosing your region: the four coasts are worlds apart
The West (Tamarin, Black River, Flic en Flac) is the stronghold of French-speaking families: dry, sunny, schools and shops. The North (Grand Baie, Pereybère) is the liveliest, popular with professionals and retirees. The East (Belle Mare) offers the finest lagoon and an emerging market; the South (Bel Ombre, Pointe d'Esny) preserved nature. Each micro-region has its own climate — an often underestimated point.
- Choosing the right area by profile
- Port Louis, Grand Baie or Tamarin: market benchmarks
- Property prices, town by town
The real budget of an expatriation
Expect a rent of Rs 30,000–45,000 per month for a quality apartment (significantly more for a villa with a pool), international schools between Rs 15,000 and 40,000 per month per child, and a cost of living broadly comparable to Western Europe — imported goods are expensive, local produce is gentle. Our benchmarks:
- Budget for expatriating to Mauritius in 2026
- Choosing a home: what to compare before signing
- When to start your rental search
Visas and permits: the entry routes
Premium Visa (remote work), work permits, retired status (from age 50), investor — and the property route: buying a property of at least USD 375,000 in an approved scheme opens the residence permit for the whole family. Our guides:
Daily life here
- What to do at the weekend when you live here
- Remote working from Mauritius: where to settle
- Moving to Mauritius: the practical guide
And property in all this
Rent first to test your region, then buy: that is the path most of our clients follow. When the time comes, our portfolio of properties for sale, the map of new developments and our long-term rentals cover the whole island — with support in English and French, from the first call to the notary.
Frequently asked questions — living in Mauritius
What monthly budget do you need to live in Mauritius?
For a couple, expect roughly Rs 90,000–150,000 per month all included (quality housing, a car, going out), more with children in international school. The detailed figures are in our 2026 expat budget article.
Do you need French to settle in Mauritius?
English is the language of administration and business, while French dominates daily life. English speakers manage perfectly well — and most professionals, notaries and agencies (including ours) work comfortably in both languages.
Which is the best region to settle with a family?
The West Coast (Tamarin, Black River) concentrates international schools, activities and an expat community; the North (Grand Baie, Pereybère) offers more buzz and shops. The right choice depends on school, work and lifestyle — we help our clients decide on the ground.
Can you settle in Mauritius by buying property?
Yes: buying a property of at least USD 375,000 in an approved scheme (PDS, IRS, RES, Smart City) entitles the buyer, their spouse and children to a residence permit, valid for as long as you own the property.