Buying Property as a foreigner in Mauritius
Foreigners are legally allowed to buy property in Mauritius, provided specific eligibility regulations and investment conditions are satisfied. Recent changes in legislation now specify which types of properties non-citizens can buy, the minimum investment requirements, and the residency options associated with real estate ownership.
This guide explains buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner under the post-2025 regulations, detailing approved schemes and key purchase restrictions.
- Eligibility Rules for Foreign Buyers
- Foreigners may buy property in Mauritius only under clearly regulated frameworks approved by the EDB. These regulations aim to ensure transparency, protect local land ownership, and manage foreign investment.
- Eligibility includes:
- Purchases must meet the approved property schemes.
- Transactions need EDB and notarial approval.
- Funds must originate from international sources.
- Property use is limited to residential purposes.
Approved Property Schemes for Foreign Ownership
When buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner, investors are restricted to properties within government-approved schemes, which guarantee adherence to planning, zoning, and investment laws.
Eligible schemes for buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner include:
- Property Development Scheme (PDS)
- Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)
- Real Estate Scheme (RES)
- Ground+2 Apartments (in buildings with at least two floors above ground)
- Smart City Scheme
However, foreign buyers generally cannot purchase standalone residential houses located outside these approved schemes.
Buying an Apartment in Mauritius as a Foreigner (G+2 Rule)
Foreigners may buy apartments under the G+2 rule, which applies to residential buildings consisting of a ground floor plus two additional floors. There should be a minimum investment of either MUR 6 million, or if buying the property in Mauritius as a foreigner, the apartments must be part of an approved development. Ownership is registered under a strata title, and EDB approval is compulsory for all transactions.
Buying a Villa in Mauritius as a Foreigner
When buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner, villas are accessible only if they are located within approved schemes such as PDS, IRS, RES, or Smart Cities. Purchases must meet minimum price ranges depending on the scheme, abide by development-specific regulations, comply with constraints on subdivision and resale, and are generally restricted to residential use. Owning a villa may also require payment of homeowners’ association fees and contributions toward shared infrastructure costs.
Permanent Residence Through Property Investment
When buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner, investing USD 375,000 or more in qualifying real estate allows non-citizens to apply for Permanent Residence. This residency remains valid as long as ownership of the property is maintained and applies to properties within PDS, IRS, RES, and Smart City developments. The application may also cover the investor’s spouse and dependents under the same permit.
Process of Buying Property in Mauritius as a Foreigner
Choose a property that is legally accessible to foreign buyers. Eligible properties must be located within:
Property Development Scheme (PDS)
Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)
Real Estate Scheme (RES)
Smart City Scheme
G+2 apartment developments approved by the authorities
Standalone houses or freehold land outside these frameworks are generally not permitted for foreign ownership.
Once a suitable property is identified, a Reservation Agreement (or preliminary agreement) is signed between the buyer and the seller or developer.
When buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner, a deposit, typically 5% to 10% of the purchase price, is paid and often held in the notary’s escrow account.
Foreign buyers must obtain EDB approval before completing a property purchase. The notary typically submits the application, which includes passport copies, proof of funds and KYC information. Approval is generally granted within a few weeks.
As part of buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner, the Deed of Sale (Acte de Vente) is signed before a registered Mauritian notary.
At this stage:
The outstanding balance of the purchase price is settled.
The notary confirms all legal and financial requirements have been met.
Ownership is formally transferred under Mauritian law.
The notary acts as an independent legal officer, ensuring that the transactions are well executed and valid.
After the deed is signed, the notary registers the transaction with the Registrar-General. Once recorded, the buyer becomes the legally recognized owner, completing buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner.
If the property meets the residency threshold – generally a minimum investment of USD 375,000 in approved schemes, then the buyer may apply for a Mauritian Residence Permit that remains valid for the duration of the property ownership. This applies to the buyer, the spouse and dependents. Residency approval is subject to separate immigration checks.
Financial and Legal Considerations During the Process
Foreign buyers should take into consideration:
- Deposit and escrow arrangements
- Compulsory use of overseas funds
- Registration duties, notarial fees, and administrative expenses
- Ongoing charges like the syndic or homeowners’ association fees
- Tax implications in Mauritius and the buyer’s home country
Independent legal and tax advice is recommended.
What Foreigners Should Consider Before Buying Property in Mauritius
Before proceeding, foreign buyers should carefully evaluate:
- Eligibility under approved schemes
- Residency objectives and long-term plans
- Resale conditions and exit timelines
- Annual charges and property management costs
- Tax obligations in Mauritius and the buyer’s home country
- Currency and exchange-rate exposure
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Mauritius, but only within approved schemes and subject to EDB approval.
No, foreigners cannot buy freehold land directly, except under limited, regulated exceptions.
A minimum of USD 375,000 is required to qualify for permanent residence through property investment under approved schemes like PDS, SCS or G+2.