How to Buy Property in Mauritius as an Expat: A Step-by-Step Guide for Investors and Relocators

Mauritius is more than just a dream destination. With its pristine beaches, year-round sunshine, stable economy, and investor-friendly policies, the island has become a global hotspot for high-net-worth individuals and international property investors seeking lifestyle, legacy, and long-term value.

At Harcourts Offshore, we specialise in guiding expats and investors through every stage of buying property in Mauritius. Whether you’re relocating, acquiring a second home, or diversifying your real estate portfolio, our team ensures your experience is seamless, secure, and rewarding.

Why Buy Property in Mauritius?

Mauritius offers exceptional advantages for foreign property buyers:

• Secure Property Rights – Legal frameworks ensure transparency and protection for international investors.
• Permanent Residency Eligibility – Property investments above USD 375,000 under approved schemes grant permanent residency to the buyer and their dependents.
• Favourable Tax Regime – No capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, and low personal and corporate tax rates (15%).
• Safe and Stable – Politically and economically stable, with strong financial infrastructure and a respected legal system.
• High Rental Yields – Popular tourist destinations and digital nomad-friendly policies make rental properties lucrative.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property in Mauritius as an Expat

Step 1: Understand the Legal Framework for Foreign Buyers

Foreign nationals can buy property in Mauritius—but only under government-approved schemes:

🏡 Property Development Scheme (PDS)

Allows foreigners to purchase luxury villas, townhouses, or apartments in gated, serviced communities.

• Minimum investment: USD 375,000
• Benefit: Eligibility for a residence permit for you and your immediate family.

🏢 G+2 Apartment Scheme

Foreigners can buy apartments in buildings with at least ground + two floors (G+2).

• Minimum investment: MUR 6 million (approx. USD 125,000)
• Note: Does not include automatic residency rights.

🚫 Land Ownership Restrictions

Foreigners cannot purchase standalone land outside of approved schemes. All property purchases must comply with the rules outlined by the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Mauritius.

Step 2: Define Your Objectives and Budget

Before you begin your property search, identify your goals:

• Are you relocating, investing, retiring, or purchasing a vacation home?
• Are you interested in rental income or capital appreciation?

Factor in all associated costs:

• Registration duty (5%)
• Notary fees (approx. 1-2%)
• Legal fees, agency commissions, and potential Homeowners Association (HOA) fees.

Step 3: Choose the Right Location

Mauritius offers a variety of lifestyle options:

• North (Grand Baie, Pereybère) – Lively, cosmopolitan, high-end living
• West (Tamarin, Black River) – Laid-back, scenic, perfect for families and surfers
• Central (Moka, Ebene) – Business hubs with modern infrastructure
• South (Bel Ombre, Mahebourg) – Nature-focused, serene, and ideal for luxury retreats

At Harcourts Offshore, we’ll help you identify the right neighbourhood to match your lifestyle or investment goals.

Step 4: Partner with a Trusted Real Estate Agency

Working with a licensed, experienced real estate agency like Harcourts Offshore is key to success. We offer:

• Access to exclusive listings
• Guidance through regulatory approvals
• Support with residency applications
• Trusted connections with legal advisors, notaries, and developers

Step 5: Engage a Property Lawyer

A local lawyer will safeguard your interests and ensure full compliance with Mauritian property law. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting due diligence
• Verifying the title deed
• Reviewing the Sale Agreement
• Coordinating with the Economic Development Board (EDB)

Step 6: Make an Offer and Negotiate Terms

Once you've selected a property:

• Submit an offer via your agent
• Negotiate the sale price and terms
• Pay a refundable deposit (typically 5-10%) to secure the property

Pro tip: Most sellers expect negotiations—your agent will help secure the best deal.

Step 7: Sign the Preliminary Sale Agreement

Known locally as the “Contrat de Réservation” or “Vente en l’État Futur d’Achèvement (VEFA)”, this legally binding agreement outlines:

• Agreed sale price and payment schedule
• Conditions precedent (e.g., EDB approval, financing, due diligence)
• Deadlines for the transaction

Ensure your lawyer reviews the agreement in full before signing.

Step 8: Due Diligence and Government Approvals

Your lawyer will now carry out checks to confirm:

• Legal ownership and title history
• No outstanding debts or disputes
• Compliance with zoning and building regulations

Simultaneously, your application for approval from the Economic Development Board (EDB) will be submitted and processed (typically 4–8 weeks).

Step 9: Sign the Final Sale Deed and Register the Property

Once approvals are granted and all conditions are met:

• Sign the final sale deed (Acte de Vente) before a licensed notary
• Pay the remaining balance of the purchase price
• The notary will register the deed with the Registrar General, completing the ownership transfer

Step 10: Receive Title Deed and Settle Into Paradise

Congratulations—you are now the legal owner of a property in Mauritius!

Next steps may include:

• Receiving your residence permit (if applicable)
• Paying annual property taxes or HOA fees
• Hiring property management (for rentals or absentee ownership)

Why Work With Harcourts Offshore?

With over 135 years of international real estate expertise and a deep understanding of the Mauritian market, Harcourts Offshore is your trusted partner for property investment in paradise.

We help high-net-worth individuals and foreign investors:
✅ Discover luxury villas, beachfront apartments, and investment-ready properties
✅ Navigate Mauritian legal and tax frameworks
✅ Apply for residency through real estate
✅ Maximise ROI through professional property management

Let’s Build Your Future in Mauritius

Whether you’re seeking a secure investment, a second citizenship option, or a new lifestyle in one of the world’s most beautiful island nations—we’re here to guide you, every step of the way.