Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, has
become a popular choice for offshore company formation due to its attractive
tax system, political stability, and favorable business environment.
Registering an offshore company in Mauritius can provide numerous benefits, including tax optimization, asset protection, and access to international markets. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the process of registering an offshore company in Mauritius.
Minimum real estate investment of USD 375,000
Six–eight months
The right to live, work, and retire in Mauritius
Benefits of the Mauritius Residence by Investment Program
Investment*
Investment*
Investment*
Benefits of Registering an Offshore Company in Mauritius
The Mauritius Residence by Investment Program
Mauritius
is known for its pleasant tropical climate, multiculturalism, and spectacular
living environments, but its dynamic economy, attractive tax regimes, and
competitive business landscape have bolstered the country’s global stature and
are attracting high-net-worth individuals and families from around the globe. For
those who wish to reside in this island nation, the Mauritius Residence by
Investment Program is the most efficient way to acquire such status. Under this
program, individuals who invest into the nation’s real estate market can become
Mauritian residents within six to eight months.
The Mauritius Residence by Investment Program is ranked 13th out of 26 programs on the 2023 Global Residence Program Index.
Requirements of residence by investment in Mauritius
The
Mauritius Residence by Investment Program requires foreign investors to acquire
luxury residential real estate with a minimum value of USD 375,000 in one of
the following six real estate projects:
·
The
Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)
o
Villas, townhouses, penthouses,
apartments, duplexes, and services plots of land exceeding 10 hectares
·
The
Real Estate Scheme (RES):
o
Smaller than the IRS units and built
on freehold land not exceeding 10 hectares
·
The
Property Development Scheme (PDS):
o
Integrated projects of social benefit
to the neighboring community, subject to strict controls regarding respect for
the environment and focused on ecology
·
The
Invest Hotel Scheme (IHS):
o
New or existing hotel units, where the
investor can live for 45 days in any 12-month period
·
The
Smart City Scheme (SCS):
o
Environmentally friendly living,
working, or leisure spaces aimed at generating their own energy and water
resources, providing state-of-the-art connectivity, creating smart modern
transportation, and reducing traffic congestion
·
The
Ground +2 Apartment Scheme (G+2):
o
Located in condominium developments of
at least two levels above ground
Alternatively, applicants can select one of the following other qualifying options for 20-year permanent residence. These options are geared towards:
Procedures and time frame of the Mauritius Residence by Investment
Program
Applications
to the program must be made through the prescribed forms and must be
accompanied by the appropriate fees. Supporting documents including a recent
certificate of morality and a recent medical certificate from the applicant
stating that they are free of contagious diseases are also applicable.
The real
estate investment must be maintained for the duration of the residence permit
and must be financed from outside funds transferred to Mauritius through a bank
recognized by the Bank of Mauritius.
After
initial due diligence checks have been conducted, the applicant may choose
their preferred property. Once approval in principle has been granted and the
applicant has fulfilled the investment, the application for residence can be
submitted to the Economic Development Board of the Republic of Mauritius.
Following successful due diligence checks, the applicant (and included family
members) receives a Mauritian residence permit.
Dependents
include spouses or partners, parents, and unmarried, financially dependent
children (including stepchildren and adopted children) of any age who are not
gainfully occupied.
Register an Offshore Company in Mauritius
Step 1: Engage a Licensed Management Company
To register an offshore company in Mauritius, it is mandatory to engage the services of a licensed management company. A licensed management company will assist you in navigating the registration process, ensure compliance with local regulations, and act as a liaison between your company and the Mauritian authorities.
Step 2: Choose a Company Name
The next step is to select a unique company name for your offshore company. The chosen name should comply with the regulations set by the Companies Act of Mauritius and should not be similar to any existing company names in the jurisdiction.
Step 3: Determine the Company Structure
Mauritius offers various company structures for offshore businesses, including Global Business Companies (GBC), which are commonly used for international business activities. Consider the type of GBC that best suits your needs, such as GBC1 or GBC2, based on factors like tax benefits, ownership flexibility, and reporting requirements.
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documentation: To register an offshore company in Mauritius, you will need to gather and prepare the necessary documentation, including:
a. Memorandum and Articles of Association: These documents outline the company's purpose, activities, and internal regulations.
b. Director and Shareholder Details: Provide the names, addresses, and passport copies of all directors and shareholders of the company.
c. Registered Office Address: Provide a registered office address in Mauritius where the company's official correspondence will be sent.
d. Business Plan: Submit a detailed business plan that outlines your company's objectives, activities, and projected financials.
Step 5: Submit the Application to the Registrar of Companies
Once the required documentation is prepared, your licensed management company will submit the application to the Registrar of Companies in Mauritius. The application should include the necessary forms, fees, and supporting documents.
Step 6: Pay the Required Fees
As part of the registration process, you will need to pay the applicable fees to the Registrar of Companies. The fees vary depending on the type of company and the services provided by your licensed management company.
Step 7: Obtain the Certificate of Incorporation
Upon successful completion of the registration process and payment of the fees, you will receive a Certificate of Incorporation from the Registrar of Companies in Mauritius. This certificate serves as legal proof of your offshore company's existence in Mauritius.
Step 8: Fulfill Ongoing Compliance Requirements
After registering your offshore company in Mauritius, it is important to fulfill the ongoing compliance requirements. This includes filing annual returns, maintaining proper accounting records, conducting annual general meetings, and adhering to any other obligations outlined by the Mauritian authorities.
In Conclusion, registering an offshore company in Mauritius can provide entrepreneurs with significant advantages, including tax benefits, asset protection, and access to international markets. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above and working with a licensed management company, you can successfully navigate the process of registering an offshore company in Mauritius. It is crucial to seek advice from legal and tax professionals to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. With the right guidance, you can establish a thriving offshore company in Mauritius and leverage the benefits it offers.
Piptan International Inc. is dedicated to assisting individuals and families in becoming Global Citizens by investing in second residency and citizenship options worldwide.