Published: 2 January 2026
Your Guide to Property Acquisition & Residency in Mauritius
Mauritius is one of the few countries in Africa that allows foreigners to purchase property in a transparent, regulated, and secure manner. Even more attractive, qualifying property purchases grant long-term residency rights to the buyer and their immediate family.
For investors, retirees, and families seeking a stable lifestyle abroad, buying property in Mauritius offers a unique combination of residency benefits, capital security, and an exceptional quality of life. This guide explains how property acquisition works, which schemes are approved for foreign buyers, and how residency is granted through real estate ownership.

Buying property in Mauritius has become one of the most popular relocation and investment pathways for foreign nationals. Beyond the island’s natural beauty, Mauritius offers a stable legal framework, strong property rights, and investor-friendly regulations.
Key advantages include:
Legal and secure property ownership for foreigners
Residency rights linked directly to property ownership
High-quality developments with international standards
Strong rental demand and long-term capital appreciation
Political stability and a well-regulated real estate sector
For many buyers, Mauritius represents both a lifestyle upgrade and a strategic long-term investment.
Foreign nationals may only purchase property in Mauritius under government-approved schemes. These schemes ensure transparency, proper land use, and investor protection.
The IRS offers luxury villas and residences within fully integrated resorts, often including:
Golf courses
Clubhouses and leisure facilities
Security and estate management services
IRS properties are typically high-end and attract both lifestyle buyers and investors.
RES developments are similar to IRS projects but on a smaller and less complex scale. They provide:
High-quality residential units
Secure environments
Access to shared facilities
RES properties are popular among retirees and second-home buyers.
The PDS is currently the most common scheme for foreign buyers. It combines the benefits of IRS and RES while allowing for:
A wider range of property types
Mixed-use developments
Strong investment and rental potential
Most new luxury developments in Mauritius fall under the PDS framework.
Foreigners may also purchase apartments in buildings with at least two floors above ground level. These developments are often:
Centrally located
More affordable than villa estates
Attractive for rental income and long-term living
One of the most compelling benefits of buying property in Mauritius is the automatic residency entitlement attached to qualifying purchases.
To qualify for residency through property ownership:
Minimum property purchase price: USD 375,000 (or equivalent in a convertible foreign currency)
Property must be purchased under an approved scheme
Residency remains valid for as long as you remain the registered owner
The Residence Permit extends to:
The property owner
Their spouse or common-law partner
Dependent children
Importantly, holders of a Residence Permit through property acquisition are exempt from holding an Occupation Permit.
Mauritius is known for its transparent and favourable tax environment, which further enhances the appeal of property ownership.
Key points to note:
No capital gains tax on property sales
No inheritance or estate duty
Flat 15% income tax rate
Well-established double taxation agreements
Professional tax and legal advice is recommended to structure your purchase efficiently and compliantly.
Foreign buyers are drawn to Mauritius for several reasons beyond residency alone.
Mauritius has a well-regulated land registry system, strong property laws, and clear ownership rights for foreign nationals.
The real estate market benefits from:
Limited supply of approved foreign-owned property
High demand from expatriates and international buyers
Growing tourism and rental markets
From world-class healthcare and international schools to safe neighbourhoods and modern infrastructure, Mauritius offers a standard of living that rivals many global destinations.
Buying property abroad involves more than choosing a home. It requires careful coordination between developers, lawyers, banks, and immigration authorities.
APTEC Mauritius provides end-to-end support, including:
Assessing eligibility for property-linked residency
Guidance on approved schemes and purchase structures
Coordination with trusted legal and tax professionals
Support with banking and fund transfers
Preparation and submission of Residence Permit applications
Assistance with dependent permits and long-term planning
Our role is to ensure your investment is secure, compliant, and aligned with your relocation goals.
Whether your goal is to relocate, retire, or invest, property ownership in Mauritius offers a powerful pathway to long-term residency and lifestyle freedom.
Contact APTEC today for a complimentary consultation and let our experts guide you through every step of buying property and securing residency in Mauritius with confidence.
