Buying Property in Mauritius
The 2026 guide for Mauritian citizens — fees, documents, government incentives and the complete step-by-step process
Overview
For many Mauritians, owning a home is the ultimate financial milestone. Whether you are looking for a plot of residential land, a modern apartment, or a family villa, the process is straightforward — if you know the rules.
Unlike foreign buyers, who are restricted to specific schemes (like PDS or Smart Cities), Mauritian citizens have the freedom to buy any residential property on the island.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the requirements, fees, and legal steps to buy property in Mauritius as a local citizen in 2026.
1. Eligibility & Financial Requirements
Before you start viewing houses, you must ensure you are financially ready.
Citizenship
You must hold a valid Mauritius National Identity Card (NIC).
Borrowing Capacity
Banks follow a Debt Service Ratio (DSR) rule. Total monthly repayments typically cannot exceed 40% to 50% of your gross monthly income.
Deposit
Most banks require 10% to 30% of the property value, though 100% financing is sometimes possible for first-time buyers.
2. Government Incentives for 2026
Government schemes change frequently. The information below reflects the status as of early 2026.
The First-Time Buyer Scheme
Registration Duty Exemption
This is the most significant benefit for locals. If you have never owned a property in Mauritius (inherited property does not count), you are exempted from paying the 5% Registration Duty on the first Rs 5,000,000 of the property value.
Example 1
Buy a plot for Rs 4M
Rs 0 registration duty
Example 2
Buy a house for Rs 6M
Rs 50,000 (5% on the Rs 1M above threshold)
Housing Loan Relief Scheme
Active until June 2027
If you have a secured housing loan, the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) provides a monthly allowance to help with repayments.
July 2025 – June 2026
Rs 667 /month
July 2026 – June 2027
Rs 333 /month
Expired Schemes
The Home Ownership Scheme (5% Cashback) and Home Loan Payment Scheme (5% Refund) officially ended on 30 June 2025 and were not renewed in the last budget. Be wary of outdated guides that still promise these cash refunds.
3. The Cost of Buying
The price tag on the listing is not the final amount you will pay. You must budget for “closing costs,” which typically add 7% – 8% to the purchase price.
Closing Cost Breakdown
| Fee | Cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Duty | 5% of value | 0% for first-time buyers (up to Rs 5M) |
| Agency Fees | 2% + VAT | Standard fee if buying through an agency |
| Notary Fees | ~0.6% – 2% + VAT | Calculated on a sliding scale (see below) |
| Admin Fees | ~Rs 10,000 | Stamps, unexpected administrative costs, etc. |
Notary Fee Scale
Regulated by law — calculated on a sliding scale:
4. Step-by-Step Buying Process
The Search & Visit
Contact a reliable real estate agency to view properties. Check for practical issues: water pressure, noise levels, and traffic in the area. Take your time — this is likely the biggest purchase of your life.
Reservation & Compromis de Vente
Once you find “the one,” you will sign a Preliminary Sales Agreement (Compromis de Vente). You will typically pay a deposit — often held in the Notary's escrow account, not given directly to the seller — to reserve the property while your loan is processed.
The Site Surveyor (Arpenteur)
For land or standalone houses, a sworn land surveyor must verify the boundaries. They will produce a “Site Plan” ensuring there are no encroachments on the property.
Bank Approval
Submit your Letter of Offer/Reservation to your bank. They will send their own valuer to ensure the property is worth the selling price before approving your loan.
The Deed of Sale (Acte de Vente)
Once funds are released, all parties meet at the Notary. The Notary reads the deed aloud, you sign it, and the payment is transferred. Congratulations — you are now a homeowner!
5. Documents Checklist
To speed up the process with the Notary and Bank, have the following ready:
National Identity Card (NIC)
For buyer and spouse
Birth Certificates
Dated less than 3 months
Marriage Certificate
If applicable
Proof of Address
CEB or CWA bill less than 3 months old
Proof of Funds
Bank statements or Loan Offer Letter
First-Time Buyer Affidavit
Prepared by the notary, stating you do not own other property
Why Buy with Allys?
At Allys, we don't just sell property — we develop homes. Whether you are looking for a brand new apartment project or a resale opportunity, our team guides you through the legal maze, ensuring your purchase is secure, compliant, and stress-free.
- Expert guidance through every step of the buying process
- Access to exclusive new developments and resale listings
- Help navigating government schemes and incentives
- Trusted notary and bank partnerships for a smooth transaction
Find Your Dream Home in Mauritius
Browse our latest properties or speak to our expert team to start your journey to homeownership