A tropical climate, attractive taxation, and a controlled cost of living: living in Mauritius appeals every year to new expats aspiring to an exceptional quality of life. But how do you actually prepare for the move?
Administrative formalities, budget, advantages and limitations of daily life: MJ Développement Mauritius provides all the answers you need to build your project with confidence.
Key takeaways
- The cost of living in Mauritius is on average 38% lower than in France.
- Several visas exist to settle in Mauritius: Occupation Permit, Residence Permit, or Premium Visa for remote workers.
- An expat couple can live comfortably on a budget of €2,000 to €2,500 per month.
- Mauritian taxation is among the most attractive in the world: flat 15% tax rate, no council tax, and no CSG.
- Mauritius offers a lifestyle combining beaches, safety, and cultural diversity, just 11 hours by plane from Paris.
Why choose to live in Mauritius?
Mauritius is one of the most popular destinations for French-speaking expats. First of all, French is widely spoken, which makes integration much easier. In addition, the subtropical climate offers pleasant temperatures year-round, ranging between 20 and 30°C depending on the season.
Beyond the natural setting, it’s the overall quality of life that attracts people: reputable international schools, an improving healthcare system, and easy access to water sports and cultural activities. Living in Mauritius also means enjoying a safe environment, with one of the lowest crime rates in Africa.
What budget should you plan for when moving to Mauritius?
The cost of living in Mauritius remains significantly lower than in Europe. According to Numbeo, prices are on average 38% lower than in France.
Here are the main budget items for an expat couple planning to move to Mauritius:
- Property purchase: from $375,000 for a home in a PDS or Smart City development, granting residence permit eligibility.
- Food: €300 to €450 per month when prioritising local products.
- Transport: around €100 per month (fuel and vehicle maintenance).
- Leisure and going out: €150 to €300 per month depending on lifestyle.
- International health insurance: from €80 per month per person.
MJ Développement’s view: the neighborhood you choose strongly impacts your budget. Northern areas (Grand Baie, Pereybère) and the west coast (Tamarin, Black River) attract most expats, but prices vary widely. MJ Développement helps you identify the area that best matches your project and budget.
What steps do you need to take to move to Mauritius?
Preparing for expatriation requires some anticipation. Here are the main steps and options available to make your life in Mauritius project a reality.
Main visas and residence permits
Several options allow legal settlement:
- Occupation Permit: for investors, professionals, or self-employed workers; valid for 10 years and renewable.
- Residence Permit: accessible through property purchase in an approved scheme (PDS, Smart City) with a minimum value of $375,000.
- Premium Visa: created in 2020 for remote workers and retirees; allows residence for one year, renewable.
Steps to take before departure
Plan for the following for a smooth transition:
- Visa and permits: submit your application to the Economic Development Board (EDB) at least 3 months before departure.
- Housing: start your search online and plan an on-site visit to secure accommodation.
- Bank account: open a local account upon arrival to facilitate daily transactions.
- Health insurance: take out international coverage before departure.
What are the advantages and drawbacks of daily life in Mauritius?
Living in Mauritius comes with many benefits, but also some realities to understand before moving.
MJ Développement, a real estate developer, breaks it down:
| Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
| Attractive taxation (flat 15% rate) | Imported goods are more expensive than in Europe |
| Pleasant climate all year round | Cyclone season from January to March |
| Lower cost of living than in France | Limited local job opportunities for foreigners |
| French-speaking environment, easy integration | Distance from Europe |
| Exceptional natural environment | Occasional road congestion |
As Michaël Ruel, Co-President of the MJ Développement Group, points out: “Moving to Mauritius means choosing a daily life where quality of life isn’t a luxury. Our clients often discover that here, regained time matters just as much as the tax advantages!”
How MJ Développement supports you in living in Mauritius
Living in Mauritius is a project that requires preparation. MJ Développement, a recognized player in real estate development in Mauritius, offers comprehensive support at every stage of your relocation. From selecting the right property for your profile (PDS residence, Smart City) to advising you on the best neighborhood, our team guides you with a deep understanding of the local market.
But our support doesn’t stop once you receive the keys: MJ Développement also guides you on administrative procedures, taxation, and the practical aspects of everyday life. Our goal is simple: to help you settle in peacefully and fully enjoy your new life in the tropics!
Dreaming of living in Mauritius and ready to make your expatriation project a reality? Contact MJ Développement for tailored support, from choosing your place of residence to getting fully settled in.
