In qualifying cases, a non-citizen who invests at least US$375,000 in an eligible property may qualify for a residence permit, subject to the applicable legal requirements.

Eligible family members may also qualify under the applicable regulations.

The Property Development Scheme, commonly known as PDS, provides for high-quality residential developments in Mauritius.

PDS developments can accommodate eligible Mauritian citizens, non-citizens and members of the Mauritian diaspora, subject to the applicable rules.

Qualifying property investment may also provide a pathway to residency for eligible non-citizens.

Smart City developments are designed around a live, work and play concept.

They typically combine residential, commercial, recreational and lifestyle facilities within an integrated urban environment, with a focus on sustainability and modern infrastructure.

Qualifying non-citizens investing in eligible property may be able to obtain residency, subject to the applicable requirements.

Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS) developments are high-end residential projects that may include luxury villas, apartments and penthouses.

Depending on the development, amenities may include golf courses, marinas, wellness centres, restaurants and other lifestyle facilities.

Qualifying investments may provide residency eligibility for non-citizens, subject to the applicable requirements.

The Real Estate Scheme (RES) was designed to allow residential developments on freehold land, subject to specific requirements.

RES properties have historically provided opportunities for investors, residents and holiday-home owners.

Where applicable, qualifying investment above the prescribed threshold may provide residency eligibility.

Non-citizens may be permitted to purchase certain apartments in qualifying buildings, subject to approval from the relevant authorities and applicable legal requirements.

The minimum purchase value and other conditions may apply depending on the property and the legislation in force at the time of purchase.

Depending on the development and applicable approvals, residential property may be purchased off-plan, during construction or after completion.

The exact purchase process will depend on the development, developer and legal structure of the transaction.

The process can include the following:

• Signing a Preliminary Reservation Agreement (CRP) with the required identification and KYC documents.
• Signing the applicable bank escrow agreements.
• Signing the site plan identifying the selected unit.
• Signing the finishing schedule and furniture schedule, where applicable.
• Signing the selected unit plans.

The exact process may vary depending on the project and the requirements of the developer, bank, notary and relevant authorities.

Qualifying off-plan developments may use escrow arrangements and completion guarantees to provide additional protection to purchasers.

The precise protection available depends on the development, contracts and applicable legislation.

Depending on the transaction, buyers should consider costs such as:

• Transfer Tax: applicable rate based on the purchase transaction.
• Notary Fees: applicable professional fees plus VAT.
• Agency Fee: applicable agency fee plus VAT.
• EDB Processing Fee: where applicable.
• Off-plan Commission: where applicable under the relevant transaction.

Depending on the investment structure and applicable legislation, property may potentially be held through structures such as:

• A non-citizen of Mauritius
• A citizen of Mauritius
• A foreign company registered under the Companies Act
• A Mauritian company incorporated under the Companies Act
• A trust with a licensed trustee
• A society established by a licensed Financial Services Commission entity
• Other permitted structures, subject to applicable regulations

The appropriate structure depends on the individual investment and should be discussed with a qualified professional.

Mauritius offers an established financial and legal environment, international connectivity and a strategic location between Africa and Asia.

The country also has an extensive network of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements, providing opportunities for international investors subject to applicable tax rules.

Mauritius has a generally competitive tax environment. Depending on the taxpayer and circumstances, the applicable income tax rate may be 15%.

Mauritius also has Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements with various countries.

No. Property investment should not be described as an automatic citizenship-by-investment programme.

Qualifying property investment can provide a pathway to residency where the relevant requirements are met.

Citizenship is a separate legal process and is subject to its own eligibility requirements and prescribed periods.

Depending on the applicable residence permit and legislation, the main applicant's spouse and eligible dependants may also qualify.

The precise definition of eligible dependants and their rights should be confirmed at the time of application.