Yes, a foreigner can buy a house in Mauritius. The real issue is choosing the right framework, as non-Mauritians can purchase residential property through approved schemes such as IRS, RES, PDS, and Smart City, with varying conditions depending on the project.mcci.org)
If you are preparing a life or investment project, a local support for your relocation to Mauritius It often helps to avoid errors in diet, timing and assembly.
The legal framework to know before signing
Outside of an approved framework, a purchase by a non-citizen requires an official procedure with the Prime Minister's Office. Therefore, one must consider authorization, documentation, and compliance, not just the property itself.
“A non-citizen who wishes to acquire a property has to make a written application.”
Official source: (dha.govmu.org)
In other words, the chosen scheme must be consistent from the outset: the project, the supporting documents and the structure of the purchase must be checked before any final signature.
The main purchasing channels to know
In practice, four categories often come up for foreigners: IRS, RES, PDS, and Smart City. The common thread is simple: they are all structured residential frameworks, but the technical details vary from one project to another.
Comparative table of major purchasing channels
| Way | Key takeaways |
|---|---|
| IRS, RES, PDS and Smart City | The main residential options to consider for a purchase framed by an approved project. |
| G+2 | Two-level or higher apartment, with EDB approval and a minimum price of MUR 6 million.migration.govmu.org) |
The details of each scheme, as well as the residency thresholds and payment obligations, are explained in the FAQ below.
Good habits to adopt before signing
- Always request written confirmation of the plan and project status.
- Check the delivery schedule, charges, and resale logic.
- Complete your reading with the Practical guides to prepare for your arrival.
- If you want to check the editorial framework, the website legal notices are useful.
- If you prefer an entry point in English, the English version of the accompaniment can also be useful to you.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Can I buy a house in Mauritius as a foreigner and obtain a residence permit through one of the property schemes?
Yes. Non-Mauritians can acquire residential property under the schemes approved by the EDB, and access to a residence permit then depends on the scheme and the amount invested. US authorities point out that a qualifying acquisition exceeding USD 375,000 opens the door to a residence permit under the relevant schemes. In practice, it is therefore necessary to verify the project, the title, and the structure before signing.2021-2025.state.gov)
What schemes are available for property purchase by foreigners in Mauritius and their main conditions?
The main pathways to be aware of are IRS, RES, PDS, and Smart City, which the MCCI presents as approved schemes for non-citizens. When comparing several projects, pay particular attention to the specifications, location, finish, and program-specific conditions. In addition, the G+2 apartment is another option, subject to prior approval and a minimum entry fee of MUR 6 million. (mcci.org)
How does the Property Development Scheme (PDS) work and what are the steps for a foreign investor wishing to access it?
The PDS (Property Development Scheme) is designed to develop a mix of residences for non-citizens, citizens, and members of the Mauritian diaspora. Official guidelines specify that a project must be located on freehold land of at least one acre, include at least six high-quality housing units, and incorporate public spaces, amenities, and management services. In practice, the process begins by identifying an already approved PDS project, then reviewing the specifications before proceeding with the notarial documentation. (edbmauritius.org)
What are the conditions and benefits of investing in a Smart City in Mauritius and how does this affect obtaining a residence permit?
A Smart City is a mixed-use project conceived around the triad of work, live, and play, with a focus on sustainable and integrated urban planning. Official guidelines state that there is no minimum price for purchasing a residential unit, but a residency permit may be required if the acquired property exceeds USD 375,000. This makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a more urban and comprehensive environment than a detached residence. (edbmauritius.org)
What is the minimum entry cost to invest via PDS/RES/IRS schemes and what obligations must be met?
The most commonly accepted threshold for qualifying residential schemes is USD 375,000. According to the provisions published at the end of 2024, non-citizens purchasing under IRS, RES, IHS, PDS, or SCS must pay 85 % of the price in Mauritian rupees to the developer, with the remaining 15 % payable in foreign currency or MUR. This point alters the cash flow structure and therefore warrants verification before any agreement is made. (2021-2025.state.gov)
And now ?
If your project is already well-developed, move on to the next step with a clear vision of the budget, plan, and timeline. To continue in your preferred language, explore The complete accompaniment for Maurice in Italian and keep this guide as a basis for comparison before making any decision.
