A Guide to Moving to Mauritius as an Expat

Mauritius, with its idyllic beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and growing economy, attracts thousands of expatriates from around the world each year. Whether you are relocating for professional reasons, family matters, or simply a desire for a fresh start, moving to Mauritius is an exciting adventure—one that requires careful planning.

In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through every step of your relocation journey: from administrative procedures and luggage shipping to Mauritius, to finding accommodation, settling in, and adapting to your  new expat life in Mauritius. Discover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and successful relocation.

What Are the Pros of Living in Mauritius?

Mauritius continues to attract a growing number of families, retirees, and remote workers each year, thanks to its many advantages. One of its key strengths is the island’s security and political stability, which provide a peaceful and reassuring living environment.

The tropical climate—pleasant all year round with mild temperatures and abundant sunshine—is another major draw. 

Language is also a significant asset: although English is the official language, French and Creole are widely spoken, making daily life and integration much easier for French-speaking expatriates.

Mauritius is also renowned for its favorable tax system, including a flat income tax rate of 15% and no taxes on wealth, dividends, or inheritance, making it particularly attractive to investors and entrepreneurs.

The cost of living remains accessible, especially when it comes to housing and domestic services, contributing to a high quality of life. 

Lastly, living in Mauritius means enjoying an exceptional environment—turquoise lagoons, beaches, mountains, water sports, and a rich, multicultural heritage.=

How to Move to Mauritius as an Expat?

Obtaining a Visa

To relocate to Mauritius, you must apply for a visa suited to your profile and plans.

The Tourist Visa allows stays of up to 90 days, sometimes renewable depending on your nationality.

The Premium Visa is tailored for remote workers, retirees, or investors wishing to live in Mauritius for up to a year (renewable). This visa requires proof of stable income from abroad, valid health insurance, and confirmed accommodation on the island.

For those intending to work or invest in Mauritius, the Occupation Permit (OP) is the most common option, available under four categories: Investor, Professional, Self-employed and Retired. Each has specific eligibility criteria:

• A minimum investment (starting from USD 35,000 for Self-Employed Permits);
• A local employment contract and minimum salary for Professionals Permits;
• Proof of sufficient funds for Retirement Permits (50+)

Applications are generally submitted through the EDB and the Passport & Immigration Office. For official forms and more information, visit the edbmauritius.org
and passport.govmu.org.

Getting a Local Driver’s License

If you are relocating to Mauritius, you can temporarily drive with your international or national driver’s license, provided it is accompanied by an official translation in English or French. However, for long-term stays, it is advisable to apply for a Mauritian driver’s license.

This can be done at the Traffic Branch of the police or the Ministry of Land Transport & Light Rail. To do so, you will need to submit:

• Your original driver’s license,
• A medical certificate,
• Your passport,
• Your residence permit (Visa, Premium Visa, or Occupation Permit),
• And a completed application form.

The Mauritian license is then issued for the duration of your legal stay in the country.
For more details, consult the official government website: govmu.org.

Arranging Pet Transport to Mauritius

Moving to Mauritius with your pet is entirely possible, but it requires careful preparation, both in terms of veterinary and administrative requirements. We recommend that you begin the process at least six weeks before departure in order to meet the deadlines imposed by the Mauritian authorities.

Documents and procedures to be completed

To travel with your dog or cat to Mauritius, several documents will be required:

• Pet passport: issued by a veterinarian, it must include identification information, including the microchip number;
• Proof of residence: the animal must have resided in France for at least 6 months prior to departure;
• Import permit: to be requested from the Mauritian Ministry of Agriculture;
• International health certificate issued by your veterinarian within 7 days prior to departure.

Upon Arrival in Mauritius

All pets entering Mauritian territory must undergo an approved veterinary quarantine. Once this period is over and the health checks have been validated, your pet will finally be able to join you and enjoy the sweet life in Mauritius.

Shipping Your Personal Belongings

Customs Formalities

Please note that importing your personal belongings into Mauritius is subject to several mandatory customs procedures.

The following documents will be required upon arrival in the country:

• A copy of your passport;
• A detailed declaration of contents, written in French, English, or Spanish;
• Identification labels to be affixed to each piece of luggage or package.
• Sachez que l’importation de vos effets personnels à l’Île Maurice est soumise à plusieurs démarches douanières obligatoires.

Prohibited or Restricted Items

Goods that are prohibited from transport or subject to hazardous materials regulations include:

• Acids
• Aerosols
• Microbial and etiological agents
• Matches
• Explosive items
• Gas cylinders
• Lighters
• Counterfeit goods
• Gasoline
• Mercury
• Perfumes
• Paints
• Corrosive products
• Flammable products
• Household products
• Radioactive products
• Toxic products
• Psychotropic narcotics
• Varnishes and solvents

Please note that the following products and goods may also be subject to restrictions, customs authorizations, and special formalities:

• Cash (+€10,000)
• Weapons and ammunition
• Batteries
• Cultural goods
• Alcoholic beverages
• Generators
• Pornographic material
• Animal products
• Tobacco products 

Before shipping, we strongly recommend that you check the official list of restricted import products with the Mauritian customs authorities.

Modes of Transport

There are two main options for moving to Mauritius: 

• Sea freight, which is more economical, is generally preferred for large volumes or non-urgent goods
• Air freight, which is faster but more expensive, is suitable for essential or sensitive items.

Updating Your Status with Your Local Authorities

Before moving to Mauritius, certain administrative procedures must be completed in the country you currently live in.

First, you should notify your local tax office of your departure so they can update your tax residency status and avoid any issues with future declarations. 

You should also inform your health insurance fund (CPAM if you currently live in France) to ensure your deregistration from the system and, if needed, to arrange for international health coverage.

Getting the Right Health Insurance

Although Mauritius has a decent healthcare system and quality private medical facilities, medical expenses can be high, particularly for specialist treatments or hospitalization. It is therefore essential to take out an international health insurance policy tailored to your expatriate status.

Ideally, this coverage should include routine medical care, hospitalization, medical repatriation, and, where necessary, specific treatments such as maternity, optical, or dental care. Several providers offer plans specifically designed for expatriates, with customizable options.

Taking the time to compare different policies and check for possible exclusions will give you peace of mind and ensure the health and safety of you and your family while living in Mauritius. For more information, you may refer to resources such as the Centre des Liaisons Européennes et Internationales de Sécurité Sociale (CLEISS) or specialized expatriate insurance comparison platforms.

Useful Information & Tips for Living in Mauritius as an Expat 

What Language Is Spoken in Mauritius?

English is the official language of Mauritius and is used in administrative documents and the education system. However, French is widely spoken and understood, particularly in the media, business, and everyday life. Mauritian Creole, the mother tongue of the majority of locals, is the most commonly spoken language. This multilingual environment makes it easier for both French and English speakers to integrate.

What Is Expat Life Like in Mauritius?

Living in Mauritius offers a unique tropical lifestyle that blends modern infrastructure with a relaxed pace of life. The island’s year-round sunny climate is ideal for outdoor activities such as going to the beach, water sports, golf, hiking, and family outings.

The pace of life is more laid-back than in Europe, and Mauritians are well-known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it easier for expatriates to integrate. A vibrant French-speaking community and a rich cultural scene further enhance the welcoming and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Mauritius is generally safe, especially in residential and tourist areas. The island also offers a wide range of leisure activities, from local markets and diverse restaurants to modern sports facilities. These factors make Mauritius an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced lifestyle that combines work, nature, and quality of life. 

What Is the Cost of Living in Mauritius?

The cost of living in Mauritius largely depends on your place of residence and lifestyle.

In popular expatriate areas such as Grand Baie, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for approximately 25,000 to 40,000 MUR per month (around €500–€800), while rentals in suburban areas drop to between 12,000 and 20,000 MUR (approximately €240–€400). Similar trends apply to three-bedroom accommodations, with prices ranging from 30,000 to 70,000 MUR (€600–€1,400) in premium neighborhoods.

Food expenses typically range from 6,000 to 12,000 MUR (€130–€260) per person when shopping at supermarkets and can be lower if purchasing local and seasonal products. Dining out costs vary from 200 to 400 MUR (€4–€8) for meals at casual restaurants, up to 800 to 1,500 MUR (€16–€30) at mid-range establishments.

Utility bills (electricity, water, internet) range between 3,000 and 6,000 MUR per month (€60–€130), depending on consumption levels—air conditioning being a major factor. Unlimited internet subscriptions cost between 1,000 and 2,000 MUR (€20–€40) monthly.

Healthcare and insurance also represent significant expenses. Private health insurance premiums vary from 2,000 to 10,000 MUR (€40–€220) per month, depending on coverage. A general practitioner consultation costs approximately 800 to 1,500 MUR (€16–€33), with specialist visits ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 MUR (€30–€50).

Transportation expenses depend on your mode of travel:

• A bus ticket costs between 15 and 35 MUR (€0.30–€0.70)
• A 5 km taxi ride ranges from 300 to 500 MUR (€6–€10)
• Car rentals typically cost between 12,000 and 25,000 MUR per month (€260–€550).

What Are the Best Places to Live in Mauritius?

Mauritius offers several attractive residential areas, each with its own atmosphere and advantages.

Grand Baie (north) is popular for its vibrant lifestyle, shopping, dining, and nightlife. It is favored by expatriates seeking a lively, seaside urban environment.

On the west coast, areas such as Flic-en-Flac and Tamarin appeal for their quieter, family-friendly settings, beautiful beaches, international schools, and relaxed atmosphere—ideal for those wanting to balance work and coastal living.

Moka and Ébène, located more centrally, attract professionals with their modern business districts, services, schools, and shopping centers. These areas provide convenient access to the capital Port Louis while maintaining a greener, residential feel.

The capital, Port Louis, remains a choice for those working in the heart of the business district, though it offers a denser urban lifestyle.

Each neighborhood differs in terms of accessibility, property prices, proximity to schools, and general ambiance. The key is to choose according to your lifestyle, work requirements, and family needs.

Healthcare in Mauritius

Mauritius’s healthcare system combines a public sector—free and accessible to citizens and residents—and a private sector, preferred by expatriates for its efficiency and quality facilities. 

Public hospitals provide basic care and emergency services but may have longer wait times and less modern equipment. Official information can be found on the Ministry of Health and Wellness Mauritius website.

The private sector includes reputable clinics such as Wellkin Hospital, Clinique Fortis-Darné, and City Clinic, offering personalized care and a range of specialties in modern, secure environments.

However, costs remain relatively high: specialist consultations average €30 to €80, and hospitalizations or surgical procedures can cost several thousand euros. Therefore, subscribing to an international health insurance plan covering medical care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation is strongly advised.

Mauritius also has quality pediatricians, modern maternity clinics, and dental and ophthalmology centers, facilitating family healthcare for expatriates.

For more information, you can visit the website of the Ministry of Health and Wellness Mauritius.

Schooling Options in Mauritius

 Mauritius offers a wide range of international schools that meet the expectations of expatriate families and provide high-quality education recognized worldwide. These institutions offer various curricula, including the French system accredited by AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad), the British curriculum (Cambridge or A-Levels), and the International Baccalaureate (IB).

Among the most well-known French schools are:

• Lycée des Mascareignes in Moka, which serves students from secondary to final year and prepares them for the French Baccalaureate;
• L’École du Nord in Mapou and École du Centre in Moka, catering to kindergarten and primary levels.

For the British system, reputable schools include:

• Northfields International High School in Mapou;
• Clavis International Primary School in Moka.

These schools are primarily located in areas popular with expatriates—such as Moka, Grand Baie, Tamarin, and Quatre Bornes—offering a pleasant environment close to residential and economic hubs.

In terms of pedagogy, these institutions often emphasize bilingual education (French and English), cultural openness, and extracurricular activities including sports, music, theater, and IT. They also support foreign students’ integration through welcome classes and personalized follow-up.

Tuition fees vary depending on the school and grade level:

• International kindergartens and primary schools typically charge between €3,000 and €6,000 per year;
• International secondary schools and high schools range from €6,000 to €10,000 or more annually, especially for final-year classes and the IB program.

We advise you to consult official websites for updated fees and enrollment procedures.