Mauritius has become one of the most sought-after property destinations in the world. Its stable economy, favourable tax environment, year-round sunshine, and high quality of life attract thousands of international buyers every year, from South Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. If you are considering buying property in Mauritius as a foreigner, this guide walks you through every step of the process.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Mauritius?
Yes, but with conditions. Foreign nationals cannot buy any property on the open market the way Mauritian citizens can. To purchase property in Mauritius, a foreign buyer must go through one of the government-approved property investment schemes. These schemes were designed to attract foreign investment while protecting the local property market.
The main schemes available to foreign buyers are the Property Development Scheme (PDS), the Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS), the Real Estate Scheme (RES), Ground +2 Scheme (G+2) and Smart City developments. Each scheme has its own eligibility criteria, minimum investment thresholds, and benefits. We cover each one in detail in our dedicated article on IRS, PDS, RES and Smart City schemes.
Step 1 — Choose the Right Property Scheme
Before you start viewing properties, you need to understand which scheme applies to the property you want to buy. Under the PDS, which is now the primary scheme for most new developments, foreigners can purchase a residential property and, if the purchase price exceeds USD 375,000, obtain a residence permit for themselves and their immediate family. This makes PDS the most popular route for buyers looking to relocate or retire in Mauritius.
IRS properties are high-end resort-style developments that were the original scheme for foreign buyers. RES was a mid-range scheme that has largely been absorbed into PDS for new projects. Smart City properties are within large integrated urban developments and offer similar residency benefits.
Step 2 — Work With a Licensed Real Estate Agent
In Mauritius, real estate agents must be registered with the Estate Agents Authority (EAA). Working with a licensed agent protects you legally and ensures you have access to properties that are correctly registered under the relevant scheme. Your agent will guide you through the viewing process, help you negotiate the price, and introduce you to a notary for the legal steps.
Rawson Properties Mauritius operates across two branches covering the North and West of the island. Our agents are specialists in their respective areas and can advise on which developments and zones best match your lifestyle and investment goals.
Step 3 — Make an Offer and Sign the Preliminary Contract
Once you have found the property you want, your agent will help you submit a formal offer to the vendor. If the offer is accepted, both parties sign a preliminary agreement known as a Contrat Preliminaire de Vente or a Promesse de Vente. This contract sets out the agreed price, payment terms, and completion date. A deposit of typically 10 percent of the purchase price is paid at this stage.
This preliminary contract is a legally binding document. It is strongly recommended that you have it reviewed by your notary before signing.
Step 4 — Due Diligence and Notary Process
All property transactions in Mauritius must go through a notary (notaire). The notary is a neutral legal officer who verifies the title deed, checks for any encumbrances or outstanding debts on the property, and ensures the transaction complies with Mauritius law. Unlike many other countries, both the buyer and the seller use the same notary in most transactions.
The notary will also verify that the property is correctly registered under the relevant foreign buyer scheme and that all permits are in order. This process typically takes four to eight weeks.
Step 5 — Sign the Deed of Sale
The final step is signing the Acte de Vente, the official deed of sale, in the presence of the notary. Both parties sign, the balance of the purchase price is transferred, and ownership is registered in the buyer's name at the Registrar General's office. If you are purchasing under the PDS scheme and meet the minimum investment threshold, you can apply for your residence permit at this stage.
How Long Does the Process Take?
From the moment your offer is accepted to the signing of the final deed of sale, the process typically takes between two and four months. If you are financing the purchase with a mortgage from a Mauritian bank, allow additional time for the loan approval process.
Quick Summary
Foreigners can buy property in Mauritius through approved schemes such as PDS, G+2, IRS and Smart City. The process involves choosing a scheme, working with a licensed agent, signing a preliminary contract, going through notary due diligence, and signing the final deed of sale. Buying under PDS with a purchase price above USD 375,000 grants a residence permit.
Ready to start your property search in Mauritius?
Contact Rawson Properties North for Grand Baie, Mont Choisy and the North East coast, or Rawson Properties West for Tamarin, Black River, Albion, and Flic en Flac. Our specialists are on hand to guide you from first viewing to final signature.
