Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it possible to buy property in Mauritius as a foreigner?
A: Yes. There are special schemes that have been setup to allow foreign ownership of property in Mauritius. The three main and easiest ways of going about it are know as: IRS (Integrated Resort) Scheme, RES (Real Estate) Scheme and the IHS (Invest Hotel Scheme). For more information on how these schemes work please click here.
Q: I am a foreigner looking to move to Mauritius, will I be permitted to find a job and work in Mauritius?
A: Yes. If you are hired by a company in Mauritius they will have to assist you in getting an occupation and work permit, if you are moving with your family then they will also need dependency visas. Contact the BOI (Board of Investment) for more detailed information on the different requirements and regulations.
Q: When renting a property through an Estate Agent in Mauritius, are there any fees or commissions to pay as a tenant?
A: Yes. Generally a tenant will have to pay an agency fee/commission. It should be paid on signature of the lease agreement. For more details click here.
Q: What’s considered short-term letting or a short-term rental?
A: This is also known as a holiday rental/let. Typically this will be self-catering accommodation that could be an apartment, villa or house. Normally this will be charged at a daily or weekly rate.
Q: Are deposits required when renting a house long term? If so how much?
A: Yes, in general landlords or property owners will ask for a security or damage deposit. The minimum is equivalent to 1 month of the rent but this could in some cases be 2 or even 3 months. This should be refunded upon termination of the lease provided there are no unpaid bills or damage to the property and its contents.
Q: What does a typical long term lease agreement look like in Mauritius?
A: All long term lease agreements in Mauritius should include but not be limited to: details of the two parties (landlord and tenant), property description, the consideration (rental amount), the period and specific conditions of lease. To download a sample copy lease agreement click here.
Q: Is it normal to have an “escape clause” or “early termination” clause in a lease agreement in Mauritius?
A: Yes, in most cases there is an “escape clause”, in Mauritius it is called “preavis”. Typically it would be 3 months notice to either party without any reason needed, most contracts do not allow for this to fall within the first 6 months.
Q: Will the utilities and services be put in the name of the Landlord or in the name of the Tenant?
A: There is no hard and fast rule on this one. It would really depend on what the two parties agree upon.
Q: Who is responsible for insurance, the Landlord or the Tenant?
A: The Landlord is generally responsible for the insurance of the building and property, the tenant is generally responsible for the contents and third-party.