Investing in Mauritius: Yields, Appreciation & Ownership
Who can buy, how ownership works, and the taxes and duties for buying property in Mauritius.
Who can buy in Mauritius
Mauritius restricts foreign property ownership under the Non-Citizens (Property Restriction) Act. Foreigners and non-residents cannot buy residential property on the open market. You must purchase through a government-approved scheme: the Property Development Scheme (PDS), the former Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS) or Real Estate Scheme (RES), or units in a Smart City. Minimum investment thresholds apply, typically starting at USD 375,000. Buying through a qualifying scheme also grants the investor and their immediate family a Mauritian residence permit, which is a significant attraction.
| Buyer | Permitted | Tenure | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident citizen | Yes | Freehold | No restrictions on the open market |
| Foreign national | Conditional | Freehold | Must buy through PDS, IRS, RES, or Smart City scheme; minimum investment around USD 375,000Approval: Economic Development Board (EDB) |
| Non resident | Conditional | Freehold | Same scheme requirements as foreign nationals; open market purchase not permittedApproval: Economic Development Board (EDB) |
Capital gains on a sale
Mauritius does not levy capital gains tax on the sale of residential property. Whether you hold for one year or twenty, the profit from a sale is not taxed as a capital gain under current law. This applies to individuals. Income from property trading as a business may be reclassified as business income and subject to income tax at 15 percent, but straightforward investment property sales are free of gains tax.
| Holding period | Classification | Tax rate | Indexation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Any, individual seller | No capital gains tax | 0 percent | NA |
| Any, frequent property trader | May be reclassified as business income | 15 percent income tax if deemed trading | No |
Laws change. Always consult a licensed real estate attorney before purchasing. Consult a qualified chartered accountant for advice specific to your tax profile. Rules change; verify with a professional before you transact.
Frequently asked questions about Mauritius
With conditions. Must buy through PDS, IRS, RES, or Smart City scheme; minimum investment around USD 375,000
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