Mauritius continues to expand its investment‑migration offerings in 2026, combining established residence‑by‑investment routes with a newly announced Golden Visa aimed at high‑net‑worth investors.
Existing residency‑by‑investment programs
The Economic Development Board (EDB) administers several pathways that grant residence permits to foreign nationals who meet investment and activity thresholds:
- Entrepreneurial route – Requires setting up and operating a local business that satisfies minimum capital and operational criteria.
- Professional investor route – Requires qualifying investments in Mauritian companies or approved economic sectors.
Real‑estate as a pathway
Acquiring approved residential property remains the most popular option. Applicants must:
- Invest at least US $375,000 in property under government‑authorized schemes such as the Property Development Scheme (PDS) or Smart City Scheme (SCS).
- Obtain a residence permit linked to the property purchase.
The route is favored by retirees, digital entrepreneurs, and families seeking a stable jurisdiction with favorable tax treatment.
New Golden Visa (announced May 2026)
- Target: ~100 wealthy investors per year.
- Investment requirement: US $1 million to be deployed within 12 months of approval.
- Processing time: As fast as five working days.
- Benefits: Renewable residence rights for the applicant, spouse, and dependent children; expectation to relocate capital into sectors such as technology, financial services, renewable energy, tourism, and other productive industries.
- Due diligence: Extensive background checks remain mandatory.
The program is designed to encourage physical relocation rather than passive investment.
Tax and business environment
Mauritius offers:
- No capital‑gains tax.
- No inheritance tax.
- English‑ and French‑speaking business climate.
- Political stability and an established financial‑services sector, making it attractive for diversification and long‑term residence.
Naturalization and citizenship
- Investment residence does not confer automatic citizenship.
- Naturalization requires:
- Minimum seven years of continuous lawful residence.
- Demonstrated good character, compliance with local laws, and intention to remain in Mauritius.
- Consideration of integration, financial stability, and economic contribution.
- Citizenship‑by‑investment does not exist in Mauritius; the path to citizenship remains discretionary and separate from the residence programs.
Outlook
Immigration professionals anticipate that the combination of long‑standing residence‑by‑investment options and the fast‑track Golden Visa will enhance Mauritius’ competitiveness in the global investment‑migration market throughout 2026 and beyond. The jurisdiction’s stable political environment, business‑friendly regulations, and tax advantages position it as a strategic long‑term residence choice for international investors.
Source article: apexcapital.one
