Living in Mauritius: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Mauritius.
Mauritius is an ideal destination for your expatriation project. Idyllic landscapes, tropical climate, fascinating cultural diversity, sustained economic growth, warm and welcoming population: the island country offers lots of assets to seduce expatriates.
Mauritius attracts professional expats wishing to work or settle their business in a pleasant environment with fiscal incentives, as well as retirees.
The island state's political and economic situation has been stable since gaining independence on 12th March 1968, and it was eventually declared a republic in 1992, with a multi-party parliamentary democracy. Mauritius' natural wonders have resulted in the creation of countless luxury resorts, which provide foreign professionals in the tourism sector with five-star job opportunities and beautiful views of the Indian Ocean. Furthermore, a range of water and land-based activities will keep expatriates entertained in their free time ' from kitesurfing, hiking or horse riding after work, to playing golf on championship-standard courses over the weekend.
Wildlife tourism is also gaining in popularity on Mauritius, which has saved more bird species from extinction than any other country in the world; and you can even see giant tortoises roaming freely on île aux Aigrettes!
If that weren't enough, Mauritius deserves a round of applause for its standards of culinary excellence, whether in fine-dining restaurants or beach shacks serving fish fresh off the boat. The varied influences of the island's Indian, French, Chinese, and Creole communities have created a diversity of delicious dishes that will leave you tongue-tied. As will the variety of languages that reflect the range of cultures that exist on the island. The main languages spoken are French, which tends to be used in education and the media; Mauritian Creole, which is a French-based Creole that is spoken by around 90% of the population; and English, which is the official language of parliament. However, most Mauritians are bi-lingual or even tri-lingual, which makes it easier for expats to get by and make friends!
Since the times of being dependent mainly on sugar exports, the island has come a long way. It has built up strong financial services and outsourcing sector, and it now boasts one of Africa's highest per capita incomes. The strong earnings of its tourism industry also contribute greatly to the economy and, luckily for expatriates, future foreign investment and expatriate employment is likely to be welcome to further stimulate growth.
However, the republic does now need to focus on reducing inequality and boosting shared prosperity, as the low employment rate reveals an imbalance in the composition of labour in high-growth sectors. In the face of potentially rapid economic development, education and skills training of the island's inhabitants is imperative, as demand for labour in traditionally low-skilled sectors, such as sugar and textiles, has decreased.
The expatriate guide to Mauritius is your reference tool to carry out your expatriation project for you and your family. You will find useful information and advice on how to make a success of your life in Mauritius
Generalities
Get an overview of living in Mauritius with general information to discover the destination.
History of Mauritius
Mauritius is an island with a rich history. From 1507 when it was discovered by the Portuguese, ...
Geography of Mauritius
To help you choose a place to live in Mauritius, here's an overview of the island's ...
Towns and districts of Mauritius
The capital of Mauritius, Port-Louis, is home to the Government House as well as the main ...
Formalities
Find out more on visas, passports and entry requirements to travel to Mauritius.
Traveling to Mauritius
Are you looking to move to Mauritius on a short-term visa to scout for opportunities or to get a ...
Invest in Mauritius
Mauritius is an ideal destination for foreign investment. With a stable democracy, the Rule of Law, ...
Retiring in Mauritius
Mauritius is rapidly becoming a hub for foreign retirees. To provide for the growing interest, in ...
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Mauritius.
Occupation Permit in Mauritius
Are you looking to settle and work or start a business in Mauritius? If so, you will probably need ...
Work permit for Mauritius
To work in Mauritius, expatriates must adhere to certain regulations outlined by the Non-Citizens ...
Become a permanent resident in Mauritius
Foreigners wishing to stay in Mauritius for an extended period can apply for a resident permit. ...
Work
Dive into the Mauritius labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Mauritius.
Work in Mauritius
The small, prosperous republic of Mauritius has risen to become one of the most progressive ...
Setting up a business in Mauritius
Mauritius is a world-renowned business center, ranked first in sub-Saharan Africa by the World ...
Jobs in Mauritius
Discover professional opportunities in Mauritius and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Mauritius. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Accommodation in Mauritius
Thanks to its idyllic setting and its proximity to Africa, India, Australia and Asia in general, ...
Buying a property in Mauritius
The Economic Development Board reminds us that any non-citizen, whether an individual or an ...
Find your ideal home in Mauritius
Explore real estate listings in Mauritius to buy or rent your next home.
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Mauritius.
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Mauritius: public and private health system, health insurance...
The health system in Mauritius
Health is a major issue when moving abroad. Are expats eligible for the Mauritian health system? ...
Mandatory medical examinations for traveling to Mauritius
Whether you are a future resident or a professional on a temporary assignment in Mauritius, ...
Health insurance for expats in Mauritius
Protect your health during your expatriation.
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Mauritius: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Mauritius.
The tax system in Mauritius
When settling abroad, all questions must be dealt with in advance and be answered clearly and comprehensively, but some questions are more difficult ...
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Mauritius.
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Mauritius, driver's license exchange and international permits.
Removal
Moving to Mauritius? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Moving to Mauritius
So you are moving to Mauritius. You have obtained your visa. You have a job, or you have been ...
Moving to Mauritius with your pet
Non-resident pet owners need to seek approval for Residence Permit before bringing their pet to ...
Free quotes for your move
Get the best offers to easily organize your relocation to Mauritius.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Mauritius.
Phones, Internet, and mail in Mauritius
Connecting to a landline, a mobile network, or the Internet will be one of the first things you do when you settle abroad. Whether to communicate ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Mauritius.
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Mauritius looks like? Here's a taste.
Measurement units in Mauritius
Mauritians rarely use square meters. Instead, you'll often hear measurements like arpent, ...
Lifestyle in Mauritius
Mauritius offers more than just breathtaking landscapes and luxurious resorts. Its unique blend of ...
Emergency numbers in Mauritius
The list below contains emergency numbers in Mauritius, should you be in need for assistance at any ...
Articles from the magazine
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Originally from Annecy, Lionel discusses his evolution from an early career in sales to his current role as an expert in optimizing online processes for French SMEs. Currently based in Mauritius, he explains how he merges technological innovation with personal connections to transform business strategies and why he chose this tropical paradise as his new home.
Top events in Mauritius in March
Explore the highlights of Mauritius in March 2025 with our guide to can't-miss events! Enjoy everything from performances by the Moscow State Dance Company to tributes featuring the music of James Bond. Find the ideal cultural experience for your weekends or evenings.
Cyclone Garance aftermath: Vegetable prices skyrocket in Mauritius
Cyclone Garance has significantly impacted Mauritius' agricultural sector. Although the rain was initially seen as beneficial following a severe drought, it has also led to a sharp price increase, heavily affecting household budgets. This article explores the chaotic market where both farmers and consumers are struggling to cope.
Mauritius weekly highlights: Environmental initiatives, water reserves crisis, and road safety concerns
This week in Mauritius, water reserves continue to face critical shortages, with levels still well below average despite recent rainfall. Meanwhile, the government is intensifying its environmental conservation efforts. This includes the removal of unauthorized buildings on Benitiers Island and initiating a project to replenish the sea cucumber population. On the safety front, while there has been a small decline in deadly accidents, the risk to pedestrians and the elderly is still a significant issue.
Tips to navigate traffic for drivers in Mauritius around Maha Shivaratree pilgrimmage
Maha Shivaratree is one of the most significant religious festivals in Mauritius, drawing thousands of pilgrims who embark on foot pilgrimages to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao). While deeply spiritual for devotees, the event also brings disruptions for those not directly involved in the celebrations. Heavy traffic, road closures, and slowed public services can create logistical challenges. Here's how to navigate this period with minimal inconvenience.
Myriam Blin, Head of the Charles Telfair Centre: Championing inclusive leadership and diversity
Join us for an in-depth discussion with Myriam Blin, Head of the Charles Telfair Centre, a key institution in the Western Indian Ocean dedicated to addressing regional challenges and enhancing collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and business leaders. She leads training initiatives focused on gender transformation leadership to meet the growing need for inclusive leadership. In this interview, she emphasizes the vital importance of diversity and inclusion in the current professional landscape and explores the distinctive challenges encountered in Mauritius.
Mauritius weekly highlights: VigiMobile, an app to monitor drug side effects
This week, advancements in pharmacovigilance through the VigiMobile tool take center stage in Mauritius. Other key developments include a strategic partnership between the UN and the government to promote cultural heritage, new educational exchange opportunities with Japan, and reinforced measures against water wastage.
Mauritius to reintroduce Penalty Point System to ensure road safety
Mauritius grapples with significant road safety challenges that affect both residents and visitors. The nation has seen a troubling number of severe traffic incidents, prompting action from local authorities. In response, the Ministry of Public Transport, led by Osman Mohamed, is revitalizing the point system license, which was previously discontinued in 2014. This measure aims to enhance road safety by effectively penalizing risky driving behaviors.
