How Foreigners Can Buy Legally under the New Law in Mauritius
Mauritius, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, has long attracted foreign investors thanks to its idyllic setting, pleasant climate and booming economy. With the announcement of new rules facilitating property acquisition for non-citizens, Mauritius is opening up new opportunities for investors wishing to diversify their real estate portfolios. These reforms represent a major step forward for the Mauritian real estate sector, allowing foreigners to access residential properties under unprecedented conditions and encouraging investment on the island. In this article, learn about the details of these new rules, eligibility criteria, restrictions and financial implications for international investors. For those who wish to make Mauritius their new home or simply invest in a destination of choice, this in-depth analysis will help you understand how to approach the Mauritian real estate market.
1. Changes in the Foreign Property Policy in Mauritius
The Government of Mauritius has recently introduced reforms to simplify and stimulate the real estate sector for foreign investors. These changes allow non-citizen residents to acquire property outside of traditional restrictive regimes, which is a significant turning point:
- Boosting real estate: new laws aim to attract more foreign investors and support local economic growth.
- Extended access to foreign residents: previously limited to certain specific regimes, foreigners can now acquire residential properties more freely.
- Economic and fiscal stability: as the financial centre of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius continues to offer strong infrastructure and attractive tax benefits.
These changes position Mauritius as an ideal destination for international real estate investment, while ensuring simplified and transparent processes.
2. Eligibility for Property for Non-Citoyans
The new regulations clarify eligibility criteria for foreigners who wish to acquire property in Mauritius for personal use. Eligible persons include:
- Permanent resident permit holders: non-citizens with a long-term residence permit can purchase residential properties.
- Occupation Permit: whether you are an investor, professional or independent, this permit allows you to access the residential property.
- Family Occupation Permit: families of foreign residents can also buy a property under certain conditions.
- Acquisition of property in designated schemes: Purchase in specific areas allows non-citizens to benefit from certain benefits.
This increased flexibility offers foreigners the opportunity to settle and live in Mauritius while enjoying a pleasant living environment, political stability and modern infrastructure.
3. Conditions and Restrictions for Foreign Investors
Although the housing market is more open, some restrictions apply to ensure sustainable use of resources:
- Limited to residential property: foreigners can only buy one residence, with a maximum area of 0.5276 hectares (1.25 acres).
- Exclusion of agricultural and public lands: special restrictions apply for these types of land, often requiring special permits.
- Resource protection: these measures aim to balance foreign investment while preserving the Mauritian real estate heritage.
These conditions are intended to protect the interests of Mauritius and its citizens while providing investors with a safe and sustainable framework for long-term investment.
4. Financial and Taxation Implications
Investing in Mauritius also entails additional costs to consider:
- Minimum purchase price: property must be worth at least USD 500,000 or the equivalent in hard currency to be eligible for purchase by a foreigner.
- Acquisition tax and registration fees: Foreign investors are subject to a 5% registration fee and an additional 10% acquisition tax.
- Impact on profitability: these additional costs contribute to the sustainable development of the island, but must be taken into account in the profitability calculations of the investment.
By including these fees in their plans, investors can better assess their investment capacity and potential return.
5. Real Estate Investment Opportunities in Mauritius
Mauritius continues to be a popular destination for real estate investment thanks to attractive conditions:
- Booming real estate market: residential, commercial and tourist properties are in strong demand, offering attractive prospects of return.
- Competitive tax advantages: Mauritius offers rental income exemptions and other tax incentives to encourage foreign investment.
- Trust and transparency: the island provides a safe and regulated environment, providing investors with a business-friendly environment.
Tax benefits, simplified processes and quality real estate services make the island an attractive choice for diversification of a property portfolio in a tropical destination.
“Investing in Mauritius is investing in a quality of life that is second to none, where real estate becomes more than an investment, but a gateway to paradise.”
New laws facilitating the acquisition of property for foreigners in Mauritius offer interesting opportunities for investors. With a clear legal framework and competitive tax benefits, the island becomes an option of choice for those who wish to diversify their assets in a dream destination. At Westimmo, our expertise in the local real estate market accompanies you every step of the way, from initial research to administrative procedures, to make your investment a success. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information and to start your investment project in the serene and enchanting setting of Mauritius.
Contact us today to learn more about new real estate buying opportunities in Mauritius. Together, we will build an investment project that lives up to your ambitions in this unique destination.
