Moving to Mauritius

Moving to Mauritius

Moving to Mauritius

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Mauritius, known for its turquoise lagoons, tropical climate, and multicultural society, has become a top destination for expats. Its blend of natural beauty and modern amenities makes it an appealing country for relocation, whether for work, retirement, or a lifestyle change. With low crime rates, diverse leisure options, and an excellent standard of living, Mauritius offers a high quality of life. However, moving to this island nation involves careful planning around immigration processes, settling into local life, and navigating practical aspects like healthcare and transportation.

Immigration and Residency in Mauritius

To move to Mauritius, you need to comply with the immigration regulations laid out by the Passport and Immigration Office.

Who is exempt from visa regulations?

Mauritian citizens, residents, spouses and children of citizens or residents, holders of diplomatic passports (except certain countries), UN, COMESA, and SADC laissez-passer holders, INTERPOL passport holders on official missions, and officials from the African Development Bank and African Reinsurance Corporation are exempt from visa regulations when travelling to Mauritius. Additionally, EU passport holders and individuals staying only during the layover of their vessel are also exempt.

Types of Visas in Mauritius

  • Tourist Visa: This visa allows non-citizens to visit Mauritius for a vacation. Based on immigration discretion, a stay of up to six months can be granted annually.
  • Business Visa: Designed for individuals visiting to establish or manage a business, allowing a maximum of 120 days per year, with no single stay exceeding 90 days. No remuneration is allowed during the stay.
  • Social Visa: Granted to non-citizens sponsored by socio-cultural organisations for up to 45 days, usually for religious or social activities. It requires prior application before travel.
  • Multiple Entry Visa: Reserved for foreign businesspeople with Mauritian interests, allowing up to 120 days annually, with individual stays not exceeding 90 days.
  • Transit Visa: Granted to passengers transiting through Mauritius on their way to another country, valid for 24 hours.
  • Medical Visa: For foreign nationals seeking medical treatment in registered private health institutions. Granted on arrival, this visa is valid for the duration of treatment, up to a maximum of six months.

For more detailed requirements, you can consult the official government guidelines available at the Passport and Immigration Office.

Life in Mauritius

Settling into life in Mauritius can take some time. Here’s what to expect regarding daily life, education, healthcare, and transportation.

Cost of Living

Mauritius offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western nations, particularly those used to higher expenses in Europe, the US, or Australia. Housing varies by region, with luxury beachfront villas in areas like Grand Baie or Tamarin costing significantly more than houses inland. On average, groceries, transportation, and dining out tend to be cheaper, but imported goods may carry a premium.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mauritius is a mixed system. Public healthcare is available to residents at no cost, but expatriates often prefer private healthcare, which provides a higher standard of care. Facilities such as Clinique Darné and Apollo Bramwell are reputable private hospitals offering advanced services. It is crucial to have international health insurance as private care can be costly, and some advanced medical procedures may require travel to South Africa or Reunion Island.

Education

For families moving to Mauritius, education is a priority. The local education system is free for residents, including university-level education. However, expatriates often choose international schools due to their high standards and internationally recognised curricula. Schools like Le Bocage International School and Northfields International School offer British GCSE and A-level programs, as well as the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma.

The diversity in schools ensures that expat children receive a high-quality education while remaining integrated into the local community through various extracurricular activities, such as tennis, rugby, and the arts.

Transportation

Mauritius has no railways, so transportation relies primarily on the island’s road network. The M1 motorway connects the capital, Port Louis, with major towns and the international airport. Public buses are available, though many expats prefer to drive. If you plan on driving, note that cars over seven years old require regular fitness tests, and you’ll need a temporary permit to drive longer-term.

Air travel is facilitated by Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, with direct flights connecting major cities such as London, Paris, and Johannesburg. This makes travel to and from Mauritius relatively straightforward, an appealing factor for expats used to frequent international trips.

Settling In: Leisure, Language, and Culture

Mauritius boasts a rich cultural mosaic with influences from Africa, India, China, and Europe. While English is the official language, French is widely spoken, and Mauritian Creole is the most commonly used language in daily life.

Leisure and Lifestyle

Outdoor activities are abundant in Mauritius, especially water sports like diving, snorkelling, and sailing. If you prefer land-based activities, golf courses, horseback riding, and hiking trails offer plenty of options. Sports such as rugby and cricket are popular, and many expatriates enjoy participating in local clubs, fostering a sense of community.

Shopping is another leisure activity with a blend of local markets and modern malls. Malls such as Bagatelle Mall offer international brands, while markets like Port Louis Market provide a more traditional shopping experience with locally produced textiles, crafts, and food.

Safety and Security

Mauritius is considered a safe country with low crime rates. Expats report feeling secure, particularly in well-developed areas like Grand Baie or Flic en Flac. However, it’s always advisable to exercise the usual precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being vigilant in unfamiliar areas.

Moving to Mauritius offers a unique blend of tropical paradise and modern conveniences, making it an attractive option for both working professionals and retirees. By carefully planning your immigration process and familiarizing yourself with local life, you can make the transition smoothly. With its friendly locals, beautiful landscapes, and dynamic expat community, Mauritius is more than just a holiday destination—it’s a place you can truly call home.

If you are considering moving to Mauritius, ask Elliott for a moving quote or visit our International Relocation page for more information.

Sources

https://www.internations.org/mauritius-expats/guide/living-short

https://govmu.org/EN/infoservices/travelandtourism/Pages/immigrationandvisas.aspx

Please keep in mind that the information in our blogs is for information purposes only. Additionally, country laws and emigration rules change. It is therefore essential to get in touch with the local home affairs office and use the current government immigration or citizenship resources they make available to you.

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