Immigration to Mauritius - A guide for Expats

Mauritius, officially known as the Republic of Mauritius, is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000 kilometers off the southeast coast of Africa. Being an island, Mauritius has no land borders, but it shares maritime boundaries with Réunion (France), Madagascar, and the Seychelles. It spans a total area of 2,040 square kilometers, with minimal inland water bodies. Mauritius is world-renowned for its crystal-clear beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant multicultural society. Mauritius boasts a diversified and rapidly growing economy, with key sectors including tourism, textiles, financial services, information and communication technology (ICT), and renewable energy. The country ranks high in Africa for ease of doing business, political stability, and economic freedom. The cost of living in Mauritius is considered moderate.

Key Characteristics of Mauritius

• Stable democracy with a strong legal and banking system
• Multilingual population (English, French, Creole, Hindi, and Chinese widely spoken)
• High literacy rate and well-developed education system
• Excellent healthcare services, both public and private
• Pleasant tropical climate year-round
• Low crime rate and a high standard of living

Tourists flock to Mauritius for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, luxury resorts, and adventure sports. Rich cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and eco-tourism also add to its global appeal. Mauritius is increasingly becoming a preferred destination for expats and immigrants due to:

• Favorable immigration policies
• Tax advantages (no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax)
• Business-friendly environment
• Political and economic stability
• Quality of life and safety
• Opportunities for retirement, investment, or remote work

Mauritius has seen increasing immigration from France, South Africa, the UK, India, and China, among others. French nationals are especially prominent, given historical ties and linguistic similarities. Mauritius is becoming a top retirement destination, especially for Europeans. Its Retired Non-Citizen Permit allows foreign retirees aged 50 and above to live in Mauritius, subject to meeting financial requirements. In 2025, Mauritius stands out as a strategic choice for immigration, as the Mauritian government has introduced various initiatives to welcome immigrants and investors.

Traveling information

Mauritius warmly welcomes travelers from around the world, with friendly and efficient immigration policies that make it easy for most visitors to enter the country. Citizens of over 100 countries, including the European Union, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, India, South Africa, and many others, are granted visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for stays of up to 60 or 90 days, depending on nationality. Travelers are generally required to present a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel, sufficient funds, and accommodation details. 

Mauritius prohibits the import of certain plants, animal products, and narcotics, and visitors with a criminal record may be denied entry. Overall, Mauritius maintains a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for tourists, business visitors, and long-term residents alike. Visit the official Mauritius Government Portal: www.govmu.org: govmu.org

How to reach Mauritius:

Mauritius is an island nation and can only be accessed by air or sea, as it has no land borders.

The most common and convenient way to reach Mauritius is by flight. The country’s main gateway is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), located in the southeast of the island near the capital, Port Louis. This modern airport connects Mauritius to major international hubs in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The official flag carrier is Air Mauritius, which offers direct flights to and from cities like Paris, London, Johannesburg, Mumbai, Dubai, and Singapore. Additionally, many other international airlines such as Emirates, British Airways, and Turkish Airlines operate regular flights to Mauritius.

How to immigrate to Mauritius

Mauritius attracting immigrants from around the world due to its stable economy, tropical lifestyle, and investment-friendly policies. Whether you’re looking to work, retire, invest, or simply enjoy a new life in paradise, Mauritius offers several visa options to suit your needs. Understanding the different types of visas is the first step toward making your move to Mauritius.

Types of Visas for Mauritius:

• Tourist Visa – Short-term stay for travel and leisure purposes.
• Business Visa – For attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities.
• Occupation Permit (OP) – For professionals, investors, and self-employed individuals planning to live and work in Mauritius.
• Residence Permit – For those eligible through OP, retirement, or family reunification.
• Retired Non-Citizen Permit – For individuals aged 50+ looking to retire in Mauritius.
• Premium Visa – Long-stay visa for remote workers, digital nomads, or retirees planning to stay up to one year.
• Student Visa – For international students enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Mauritius.
• Permanent Residence Permit – Available to certain long-term residents, investors, and professionals after fulfilling specific criteria.

 Government Strategies to Attract Immigrants

• The Mauritian government has introduced various initiatives to welcome immigrants and investors:
• Occupation Permit (work and residence combined)
• Permanent Residence Permit for investors, professionals, retirees, and self-employed individuals
• Smart City Scheme and Property Development Scheme (PDS) enabling foreigners to buy real estate and obtain residency
• Digital Nomad Visa (Premium Visa) encouraging remote workers to live and work in paradise

People 

Mauritius is a vibrant multicultural society, home to a diverse population of approximately 1.2 million people. Mauritius is often described as a “rainbow nation” due to its ethnic and cultural mix. The majority are of Indian descent (67%), followed by Creole (28%), Chinese (3%), and French (2%) communities. With this blend, skin tones and physical appearances vary widely—ranging from light to dark complexions.

This rich tapestry of cultures fosters a welcoming environment for immigrants and expats. Most Mauritians are multilingual, with English, French, and Mauritian Creole commonly spoken.

The people of Mauritius are known for their diverse ethnic backgrounds, peaceful coexistence, and warm hospitality—qualities that make the island nation welcoming for immigrants, expats, and travelers alike. Mauritius is multi-religious, with Hinduism being the dominant religion (about 48%), followed by Christianity (32%), Islam (17%), Buddhism and other faiths. Religious festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Chinese New Year are celebrated nationwide and often enjoyed by people of all backgrounds. Mauritians are deeply family-oriented, with strong community ties, respect for elders, and a continued commitment to traditional customs and close-knit extended family living.

Mauritians are known to be friendly, hospitable, and tolerant toward foreigners. The country has long welcomed expats, retirees, and skilled migrants, especially due to its open economy and investment-friendly policies. In general, foreigners feel safe and accepted, particularly in urban and tourist areas. Foreigners who show respect for local customs and traditions are often embraced warmly by local communities.

Job offers in Mauritius

The unemployment rate stands at 5.9% as of the third quarter of 2024, indicating a relatively healthy job market. Mauritius continues to attract foreign professionals across various sectors due to its strategic location, favorable tax policies, and growing economy. The government’s initiatives, such as the ‘Digital Mauritius 2030’ plan, aim to position the country as a regional hub for technology and innovation, creating numerous job opportunities for expatriates. Mauritius offers a range of employment opportunities, particularly in sectors like:

Information Technology (IT) & Fintech:

• Roles in Demand: Software Engineers, Data Scientists, Cybersecurity Experts, AI Specialists, Cloud Computing Professionals.
• Salary Range: MUR 800,000 to MUR 1,800,000 annually, depending on experience and specialization.
• Skills Required: Proficiency in programming languages (Python, Java, JavaScript), cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and expertise in AI/ML, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
• Growth Outlook: The ICT sector is projected to create over 16,000 new jobs by 2030, with a significant focus on AI and fintech .

Financial Services:

• Roles in Demand: Wealth Managers, Compliance Officers, Investment Analysts, Experts in Virtual Assets and Tokens.
• Salary Range: MUR 600,000 to MUR 1,200,000 annually.
• Skills Required: Strong background in finance, knowledge of international financial regulations, and experience with digital financial products.
• Incentives: Introduction of a 10-year expert work permit to attract foreign talent in areas like wealth management and virtual assets.

Tourism & Hospitality:

• Roles in Demand: Hotel Managers, Tour Operators, Event Coordinators, Guest Services Managers.
• Salary Range: MUR 400,000 to MUR 800,000 annually.
• Skills Required: Experience in hospitality management, customer service excellence, and multilingual communication skills.
• Growth Outlook: As a major contributor to the GDP, the tourism sector continues to offer opportunities, especially in luxury resorts and eco-tourism ventures.

Education & Research:

• Roles in Demand: University Professors, Research Scientists, Educational Administrators.
• Salary Range: MUR 500,000 to MUR 1,000,000 annually.
• Skills Required: Advanced degrees in specialized fields, research experience, and proficiency in English or French.
• Incentives: Mauritius aims to become a higher education hub in Africa, targeting 100,000 international students, thereby increasing demand for qualified educators.

Construction & Real Estate:

• Roles in Demand: Project Managers, Civil Engineers, Architects, Property Developers.
• Salary Range: MUR 600,000 to MUR 1,200,000 annually.
• Skills Required: Expertise in construction project management, knowledge of local building codes, and experience in sustainable development practices.
• Growth Outlook: Ongoing infrastructure projects and real estate developments continue to drive demand in this sector.

On-line Job Portals & other ways to find out jobs in Mauritius:

• MyJob.mu: A leading Mauritian job portal featuring a wide range of listings across various sectors.
• CareerHub.mu: Offers job opportunities in finance, IT, education, and more.
• Proactive.mu: Specializes in executive and professional roles.
• TipTopJob.mu: Provides listings for both local and international candidates.
• LinkedIn: Update your profile and set your location to Mauritius to increase visibility to recruiters.
• Recruitment Agencies: Consider engaging with agencies specializing in your field for personalized job placement services.
• Company Websites: Many organizations post job openings on their official websites. Identify companies in your sector of interest and apply directly.

Unemployment Rate

As of September 2024, Mauritius’ unemployment rate is 5.9%, a decrease from 6.2% in the previous quarter. This trend reflects a stable and improving job market, beneficial for immigrants and expats seeking employment. There are many factors influencing the unemployment rate in Mauritius. The most prominent is Skill Mismatch. A significant portion of the unemployed population lacks the necessary qualifications for available jobs. In the third quarter of 2024, approximately 53% of the unemployed individuals did not possess the Cambridge School Certificate (SC) or its equivalent. Among them, 2,800 had not even completed the Primary School Achievement Certificate (PSAC)/Certificate of Primary Education (CPE).

Economy of Mauritius

Mauritius boasts a diversified upper-middle-income economy, transitioning from its historical reliance on sugar production to a multifaceted economic landscape. As of 2024, the country’s nominal GDP stands at $16.36 billion, with a purchasing power parity (PPP) GDP of $40.47 billion, reflecting a per capita income of approximately $12,973. Mauritius has a service-driven economy, with tourism, financial services, and ICT making up about 74% of its GDP, while industry and agriculture contribute 21.8% and 4% respectively. It is also ranked second in Africa on the Human Development Index, reflecting strong progress in health, education, and income.

Factors affecting the economic growth:

• Tourism: The island attracts over 1.3 million visitors annually, contributing significantly to GDP through expenditures on accommodation, dining, and recreational activities.
• Financial Services: Mauritius has established itself as a prominent international financial center, offering a favorable regulatory environment and serving as a gateway for investment into Africa and Asia.
• ICT & BPO: The ICT sector, encompassing software development, fintech, and business process outsourcing, has experienced rapid growth, driven by a skilled workforce and supportive infrastructure.
• Renewable Energy & Blue Economy: Investments in solar, wind, and marine resources aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development

While challenges such as climate change, skill mismatches, and global economic uncertainties persist, Mauritius’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth positions it well for a prosperous future. For more detailed information on the economy of Mauritius, visit worldbank.org

Climate

Mauritius has a tropical maritime climate, with warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The island experiences two main seasons:

• Summer (November to April) – hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F).
• Winter (May to October) – cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F).
• Extremes: Temperatures rarely fall below 16°C (61°F) or rise above 35°C (95°F).
• Rainfall: Rainfall is heaviest between January and March, often in the form of short, intense tropical showers, especially in the central plateau.
• Natural Disasters: Mauritius is occasionally affected by tropical cyclones, mainly between January and March, but is generally well-prepared and resilient.
• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Mauritius is during the cooler, drier months from May to December, ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.

Languages

The widely Spoken Language or the lingua franca in Mauritius is the Mauritian Creole (Kreol Morisien), Spoken by over 85% of the population. As of now Mauritius does not have a legally declared official language, but English is used as the official language in government and legal matters. English is also the medium of instruction in Schools in Mauritius. French is also spoken fluently by the majority of Mauritians and often preferred. It dominates media, business, and everyday communication.

Languages spoken by the immigrants and other communities in Mauritius:

• Hindi, Urdu, Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi are spoken by communities of Indian origin and are taught in schools as optional languages.
• Chinese (Hakka and Mandarin) is spoken by the Sino-Mauritian community.

Most Mauritians are trilingual or even quadrilingual, often switching between Creole, French, English, and a heritage language depending on the context.

Traffic in Mauritius

Driving in Mauritius in 2025 offers a unique and memorable experience, especially for those new to the island. The peak traffic hours in Mauritius are 7.30 am to 9:30 am & 3.00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Road conditions and Traffic Signals in Mauritius:

• Major highways such as the M1 (connecting the capital Port Louis to the south) are generally well-maintained and efficient.
• Urban Roads: Well-paved and clearly marked, especially in cities like Port Louis, Curepipe, and Quatre Bornes.
• Rural & Coastal Roads: Scenic but can be narrow with sharp bends; exercise caution when overtaking or navigating curves.
• Signage: Most road signs in Mauritius are in English and follow international standards, but in smaller towns, you might see a few signs or symbols that are a bit different or used in a local way.
• Traffic lights are present at most major intersections, especially in urban centers and along major roads. Flashing Yellow light often indicates a pedestrian crossing or a less-controlled intersection—slow down and proceed with caution.
• Roundabouts are commonly used throughout the country to manage traffic flow—drivers entering must give way to those already inside the circle, which is an important rule for newcomers to follow.
• Traffic police are active across Mauritius, though their visibility can vary by region and time of day. You’ll often see traffic officers in busy areas during peak hours or at key intersections, especially in city centers and near schools. There are mobile checkpoints for random breathalyser tests, speed monitoring using radar guns and documentation checks.

Standard Traffic Rules and Fines in Mauritius:

• Driving Side: Drive on the left side of the road.
• Speed Limits – Town areas: 40 km/h, Open roads: 80 km/h, Motorways: Up to 110 km/h. Fines for exceeding speed limits Rs, 5000 to 12,500, depending upon the speed.
• Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers. Penalty of Rs.5000.00 for not using a seat belt.
• Mobile Phones: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited. Fine of Rs.5000.00 for using a mobile phone while driving.
• Pedestrian Crossings: Always yield to pedestrians at marked crossings. Overtaking a pedestrian crossing incurs a fine of Rs. 5000.00
• Alcohol Limit: Blood alcohol content must not exceed 0.05%. Driving under influence will incur a minimum fine of Rs. 20,000.
• Helmet Use: Compulsory for motorcyclists and passengers.
• Child Safety: Children under 10 years old must not sit in the front seat.​
• Fine of Rs,100,000 is charged for Driving without license in Mauritius.
• Vehicle Emissions Violation – Rs.2000 to Rs.5000.00

Driving Eligibility for Tourists and Expats in Mauritius:

• Tourists – International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if staying longer than 4 weeks in Mauritius. Domestic License: Accepted for stays up to 4 weeks.​
• Expats – For Short-Term Stay in Mauritius a IDP or valid foreign license accepted. For longer stay, an expat must exchange foreign license for a Mauritian one after 4 weeks.

Additional Tips for Drivers in Mauritius:

• Use a GPS app like Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and road closures.
• Be cautious in the rainy season (January to March), as roads may become slippery and prone to flooding in low-lying areas.
• Use designated parking areas; avoid illegal parking to prevent fines.
• Exercise caution during night driving as some areas may have inadequate lighting.
• Dial 999 for Police assistance in case of emergency.

Currency

The official currency of Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee, abbreviated as MUR and symbolized as Rs or Re. One rupee is subdivided into 100 cents. The Bank of Mauritius is the sole authority responsible for issuing and managing the currency.

As of April 2025, the exchange rate for the Mauritian Rupee fluctuates, and it’s advisable to check current rates before making transactions. International visitors and expatriates can exchange foreign currencies at various locations in Mauritius, including Banks, Hotels, Currency Exchange Counters at Airports, Shopping Malls and Tourists Areas.

The currency is available in Banknotes in the following denominations:

Rs.2,000, Rs.1,000, Rs.500, Rs.200, Rs.100, Rs.50 and Rs.25.

The currency is available in Coins in the following denominations:

Rs.20, Rs.10, Rs.5, Rs.1, 50c, 20c and 5c.

Payment Transaction

In Mauritius, a wide range of payment transactions are accepted, including cash, debit and credit cards, mobile payments, and online banking. Most businesses, especially in urban areas and tourist hotspots, accept Visa and Mastercard, while some also support American Express. Mobile payment apps like Juice by MCB and My.T Money are increasingly popular for quick, cashless transactions.

For everyday purchases, cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas and small markets. Among expats and immigrants, debit/credit card payments and mobile apps are the most commonly used options, thanks to their convenience, security, and integration with local banks.

Cost of living in Mauritius

Mauritius continues to be an attractive destination for expatriates and immigrants seeking a balance between affordable living and a high quality of life. As of 2025, the cost of living in Mauritius remains relatively low compared to many Western countries, making it an appealing choice for relocation.

Affordable living areas in Mauritius for expats:

• Areas such as Grand Baie, Flic en Flac, and Tamarin offer a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty, with rental prices ranging from €500 to €1,500 per month for standard accommodations.

Daily expenses:

• The daily cost of living in Mauritius is manageable, with expenses varying based on lifestyle choices. For instance, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around 312.50 MUR, while a mid-range three-course meal for two can range from 1,000 to 3,500 MUR . Grocery prices are also reasonable, with items like a loaf of bread priced at approximately 28.79 MUR and a liter of milk around 222.69 MUR .

Please visit numbeo.com and find out the present cost of commodities and services, which will help you to determine the cost of living in Mauritius.

Health Insurance

Mauritius boasts a dual healthcare system comprising public and private sectors, offering comprehensive medical services to both citizens and expatriates. The public healthcare system provides free medical services at government-run hospitals and clinics, including general consultations, emergency care, and treatments for chronic illnesses. Notable public hospitals include Dr A.G. Jeetoo Hospital in Port Louis and Victoria Hospital in Quatre Bornes, which offer a range of medical services, including general consultations, maternity care, and specialized treatments for chronic conditions such as diabetes. However, the public system may experience long waiting times, and certain specialized treatments may not be available locally, necessitating medical evacuation to nearby countries like Reunion Island, India, or South Africa.

For expatriates and foreigners, private health insurance is highly recommended to ensure timely access to quality medical care. Several international insurance providers offer comprehensive coverage tailored to the needs of expatriates in Mauritius. Leading insurers include Allianz Care, Cigna Global, AXA Global Healthcare, and IMG, each offering customizable plans with varying levels of coverage and benefits. Additionally, local providers such as Mauritius Union Assurance (MUA) and Swan General Ltd offer health insurance plans that cater to expatriates, providing coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, and emergency treatments.

The cost of health insurance for expatriates in Mauritius varies depending on factors such as age, coverage level, and provider. On average, expatriates can expect to pay around $100–$200 per month for a basic health insurance policy. It’s essential for expatriates to carefully compare different insurance plans to select the one that best suits their healthcare needs and budget.

Summary

Mauritius is a picturesque island nation located in the Indian Ocean, just off the southeast coast of Africa. Renowned for its white-sand beaches, lush landscapes, and multicultural harmony, the country offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern living. Its economy is stable and diversified, driven by tourism, financial services, manufacturing, and an emerging tech sector. With a relatively low cost of living and high quality of life, Mauritius is a top choice for expats and digital nomads. The island enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor living. Mauritius is also known for being safe, politically stable, and welcoming to foreigners. In 2025, it stands out as one of the best immigration options for international residents, thanks to its investor-friendly policies, skilled migration programs, and streamlined residency options for retirees, professionals, and entrepreneurs. English and French are widely spoken, easing integration and communication for newcomers.