Mauritius

Mauritius is situated in the Indian Ocean approximately 800 km off the East Coast of Madagascar. The island, which is of volcanic origin, covers an area of 1,800 sq. km.

Political Structure

The British ruled Mauritius for 158 years until 12 March 1968 when it became an independent country within the Commonwealth. The President is the Head of State and Commander in Chief. Full executive power rests with the Prime Minister who is Head of Government.

Economy

Since independence in 1968, Mauritius has developed from a low income, agriculturally based economy to a middle-income diversified economy with growing industrial, financial and tourist sectors. The island has become a renowned offshore Centre with a large number of banks and financial companies attracting more than 25,000 offshore entities, many aimed at commerce in India and South Africa.

Population

Mauritius has the highest population density in Africa with an estimated resident population of 1,282,713. The people of Mauritius are multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and multicultural, drawing from Indian, African, European (mostly French) and Chinese origin.

Language

English is the official language. However, the Mauritian population is largely bilingual, being fluent in French. Creole is also spoken and understood by everyone.

Standard Currency

Mauritian Rupee (Rs) and US$

Time Zone

GMT+4

Exchange Control

None.

Type of Law

Common Law for corporate matters.

Confidentiality

Mauritius offers a high level of anonymity and privacy.

Mauritius Category 2 Company Information

A company holding a Category 2 Global Business License is often used for trading and investment. GBL II companies are not resident for tax purposes and do not have access to Mauritius’ tax treaty network. Beneficial ownership is not disclosed to the authorities.

Mauritius Corporate Features

General
  • Type of Company
    GBL II
  • Hybrid
    Common
  • Shelf Company Availability
    Yes
  • Time to Form
    7 days
  • Corporate Taxation
    Nil
  • Double Taxation Treaty Access
    No
Share Capital or Equivalent
  • Standard currency
    US$
  • Permitted currencies
    Any except Mauritian Rupees (Rs)
  • Standard Authorized Capital / Shares
    N/A
Directors
  • Minimum number
    One
  • Local required
    No
  • Publicly accessible records
    No
  • Location of meetings
    Anywhere
Shareholders
  • Minimum number
    One
  • Publicly accessible records
    No
Company Secretary
  • Required
    Optional
  • Local or qualified
    No
Accounts
  • Requirements to prepare
    Yes
  • Audit requirements
    No
  • Requirements to file accounts
    Yes
  • Publicly accessible accounts
    No
Required Documents in English Language
  • Notarised/certified copy of valid passport
    Yes
  • Notarised/certified or original proof of address (issued within the last 3 months) in English or translated into English
    Yes
  • Original bank statements from the last three months
    Yes
  • Original bank reference letter
    Yes
  • Curriculum Vitae
    Yes
  • Business plan
    Yes

Trading Restrictions
Mauritius companies holding a Category 2 Global Business License cannot trade within the Republic of Mauritius