• Residence & Occupation Permits
  • Business Setup in Mauritius
  • Corporate Management Services

Published: 8 January 2026


Your Step-by-Step Checklist for Moving to Mauritius (2026 Edition)


Your Complete Relocation Checklist for Moving to Mauritius

Relocating to Mauritius is an exciting step — whether you’re seeking a better lifestyle, business opportunities, or a secure retirement abroad. However, a successful move requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and a clear understanding of local regulations.

This 2026 relocation checklist walks you through every essential step, from choosing the right permit to settling into daily life in Mauritius — helping you move with confidence and clarity.


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Step 1: Choose the Right Permit Category

Your relocation journey starts with selecting the permit that best matches your goals and personal circumstances. Mauritius offers several clearly defined pathways for foreign nationals.

Common permit categories include:

  • Investor Permit – for business owners investing in a Mauritian company

  • Professional Permit – for individuals employed by a Mauritian company

  • Self-Employed Permit – for one-person service businesses

  • Residence Permit for Retired Non-Citizens – for applicants aged 50 and above

  • Residence Permit through Property Ownership – for qualifying real estate purchases

Choosing the correct permit from the outset is critical, as each category has different financial, documentation, and renewal requirements.


Step 2: Prepare Your Core Documentation

Accurate and complete documentation is essential for a smooth application process. While requirements vary by permit type, most applicants will need the following:

  • Valid passport (bio-data page)

  • Birth certificate

  • Certified bank statements or proof of income

  • Police clearance or certificate of character

  • Curriculum vitae (CV)

  • Proof of funds or salary

  • Business plan and financial forecasts (for investors and self-employed applicants)

Preparing these documents early helps avoid delays once your application is submitted.


Step 3: Include Your Family (Dependents)

Mauritius allows approved permit holders to relocate with their immediate family.

Eligible dependents typically include:

  • Spouse or common-law partner

  • Unmarried children under the age of 24

Dependent applications are submitted alongside, or shortly after, the main permit application and require additional documentation. Proper planning ensures your family can relocate together without complications.


Step 4: Plan Your Accommodation in Mauritius

Housing is an important part of your relocation strategy. Many newcomers initially rent before deciding whether to purchase property.

Popular housing options include:

  • Long-term residential rentals

  • Secure gated estates

  • Beachfront villas

  • Modern apartments and townhouses

APTEC can guide you on suitable locations based on lifestyle, proximity to schools or work, and budget considerations.


Step 5: Open a Mauritian Bank Account

Opening a local bank account is a mandatory requirement for most Occupation and Residence Permits.

Your Mauritian bank account will be used for:

  • Transferring required funds or income

  • Business transactions (where applicable)

  • Ongoing compliance with permit conditions

APTEC facilitates banking introductions and supports you through the account-opening process to ensure alignment with immigration requirements.


Step 6: Complete Your Medical Examination

All applicants must undergo a medical examination at an approved medical facility in Mauritius before their permit can be finalised.

This typically includes:

  • General medical check-up

  • Blood tests

  • Chest X-ray

Medical appointments are arranged once Approval in Principle has been issued and you are physically present in Mauritius.


Step 7: Understand Tax & Financial Considerations

Mauritius is known for its transparent and investor-friendly tax system. Before relocating, it’s important to understand how this may affect your finances.

Key features include:

  • 15% flat income tax rate

  • No capital gains tax

  • No inheritance or estate duty

  • Extensive double taxation agreements, including with South Africa

Professional tax advice is recommended to structure your relocation efficiently.


Step 8: Travel to Mauritius to Finalise Your Permit

Once your application receives Approval in Principle, you must travel to Mauritius within the validity period (usually up to 90 days) to complete final formalities.

These typically include:

  • Medical examinations

  • Bank account activation

  • Appointments with the Economic Development Board (EDB) and Immigration

  • Payment of applicable government fees

After completion, your permit is officially issued.


Step 9: Settle Into Life in Mauritius

With your permit in hand, you can begin your new life in Mauritius. This final stage includes:

  • Registering locally where required

  • Setting up utilities and services

  • Enrolling children in school (if applicable)

  • Integrating into local and expat communities

With the right support, settling in is smooth and rewarding.


How APTEC Helps You Relocate With Confidence

Relocating internationally involves many moving parts — but you don’t have to manage them alone.

APTEC Mauritius provides end-to-end relocation support, including:

  • Permit eligibility assessments

  • Application preparation and submission

  • Banking and medical coordination

  • Family and dependent permits

  • Ongoing compliance and renewal support

Our role is to make your move to Mauritius structured, compliant, and stress-free.


Ready to Start Your Move to Mauritius?

Whether you’re planning to work, invest, or retire in Mauritius, having the right checklist — and the right partner — makes all the difference.

Contact APTEC today for a complimentary consultation and let our experienced team guide you through every step of your relocation journey to Mauritius.

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Your Questions Answered

Q: Do I need to travel to Mauritius to submit my application?

A: Not always. We can begin the process remotely, but you will need to travel to Mauritius to finalise your application (medical, banking, and EDB appointments).

A: Most self-managed applications fail due to incorrect documentation or misunderstandings of compliance rules. APTEC ensures accuracy, faster approval, and full support for your business and family.

A: We can assist with renewals, provided you continue to meet the criteria (e.g., income, turnover, or property ownership).

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