Mauritius Company Formation Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Mauritius offers one of the most competitive tax regimes in the region, making it a highly attractive destination for businesses and investors. As of 2025, the corporate tax rate in Mauritius is:

1. Standard Corporate Tax Rate

• The corporate income tax rate in Mauritius is 15% on chargeable income.

2. Partial Exemption Regime

• Certain types of income may qualify for an 80% partial exemption, effectively reducing the tax rate to 3%, provided that the company meets the economic substance requirements in Mauritius.
• Income eligible for partial exemption includes:
  • Foreign-source dividends (subject to conditions)
  • Interest income
  • Foreign-source income from collective investment schemes, CIS managers, CIS administrators, investment advisers, and similar financial activities
  • Profits from ship and aircraft leasing

3. No Capital Gains Tax

• Mauritius does not levy capital gains tax, enhancing its appeal for investment holding structures and wealth planning.

4. No Withholding Tax on Dividends

• If a company in Mauritius pays dividends to people who don't live there, they usually don't have to withhold any tax.

5. Tax Credits and Double Tax Treaties

• Mauritius has an extensive network of double taxation agreements (DTAs), allowing businesses to minimize double taxation risks and optimize global tax efficiency.
• Foreign tax credits may further reduce the effective tax burden for Mauritian companies earning foreign income.

6. Additional Incentives

• There are also tax-free periods and other good deals for certain industries like manufacturing, tech, green energy, and finance.

However, while Mauritius offers tax efficiency, companies must comply with international standards on transparency, economic substance, and anti-money laundering regulations.

Mauritius is easy to work with its taxes, good for investors, and in a good spot on the map. That makes it a top choice for companies that want to plan their taxes well and get into regional markets. If you want help with setting up a company in Mauritius in a tax-smart way, you could talk to someone at Offshore Company Services. We know a lot about international business solutions.

Mauritius is a reputable International Financial Centre (IFC) that offers a robust and well-regulated banking environment, especially for offshore and international business operations. As of 2025, several banks stand out for their offshore banking services, depending on your needs for corporate accounts, private banking, or wealth management. Here are the top options:

1. SBM Bank (Mauritius) Ltd

• One of the largest and most established banks in Mauritius
• Offers multi-currency offshore corporate accounts
• Strong digital banking platform for international transactions
• Popular with Global Business Companies (GBCs) and investment holding structures

2. AfrAsia Bank

• Highly regarded for its private banking and international corporate banking services
• Flexible account structures tailored for HNWIs, asset managers, and offshore companies
• Excellent customer service, especially for cross-border banking needs
• Preferred for clients needing Euro, USD, and GBP accounts

3. Bank One

• Joint venture between Mauritian and international shareholders
• Specializes in regional corporate banking, including Sub-Saharan Africa
• Offers strong compliance support for GBCs and investment firms

4. MauBank Ltd

• Offers both retail and international business banking services
• Competitive fee structure for small and medium-sized offshore companies
• Local expertise in structuring accounts for operational efficiency

Key Offshore Banking Features in Mauritius

• Multi-currency accounts (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.)
• Online banking with international wire transfer capabilities
• Strict compliance with international AML/CFT regulations
• No exchange controls, offering free repatriation of capital and profits

Due to strict international compliance standards, opening a business bank account in Mauritius requires full KYC documentation, a clear business model, and in many cases, in-person or video interviews.

In general, the best offshore bank in Mauritius depends on your company’s structure, investment goals, and required services. AfrAsia Bank and SBM are top-tier choices for global businesses seeking efficient offshore accounts with credibility and flexibility.

Entrepreneurs are advised to consult with licensed corporate service providers such as Offshore Company Services, who are familiar with Mauritius banking regulations and can assist in account setup and compliance.

=> Full Information: Offshore Banks in Mauritius: Global Banking and Financial Security

Yes, foreigners can open a bank account in Mauritius. That's why lots of investors, expats, and offshore companies like it there. They have a good banking system and clear rules that help foreigners with their accounts, while still following international finance rules.

Types of Accounts Foreigners Can Open

• Personal Accounts: These are for expats, retirees, or rich people who want to take care of their money or live in Mauritius.
• Business Accounts: These are for foreign-owned businesses, mainly Global Business Companies (GBCs), investment firms, or main regional offices.
• International Accounts: Offered to non-resident clients who use Mauritius as a financial base for international business and investment purposes.

Requirements for Foreigners

While specific documents vary by bank and account type, the general requirements include:

• Valid passport and proof of identity
• Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, etc.)
• Bank reference letter or professional introduction (for some institutions)
• Source of funds declaration or business activity overview
• For companies: Certificate of incorporation, business license, M&AA, and details of directors/shareholders

Due to strengthened compliance policies, banks now require full KYC documentation and sometimes video interviews. Applicants must demonstrate the legitimacy and economic rationale behind their account request.

Top Banks Serving Foreign Clients

• AfrAsia Bank – Known for offshore and private banking
• SBM Bank – Corporate and multi-currency accounts
• Bank One – Regional and investment-focused clients
• MauBank – Cost-effective solutions for smaller businesses

Remote Account Opening Options

Some banks may allow remote account opening through licensed corporate service providers, but this is subject to case-by-case compliance review. Usually, they do this with the help of local corporate service providers.

Mauritius is still a popular place to bank offshore because its economy is stable, it keeps your information private, and it's easy to do business there.

Working with an experienced corporate service provider like Offshore Company Services can help navigate bank requirements, ensure compliance, and increase the chances of successful account opening.

=> Full Information: Offshore Banks in Mauritius: Global Banking and Financial Security

Mauritius takes the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as its official accounting standard. All companies registered in Mauritius, Global Business Companies included, are required to prepare and present financial statements in IFRS, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). This aligns the country's financial reporting with international standards, making it easier to improve transparency and investors' confidence.

The use of IFRS is mandatory for:

• Public companies
• Private companies with an annual turnover exceeding a specified threshold
• Entities regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC), such as management companies and investment firms

The companies are also obligated to appoint an auditor who is licensed in Mauritius to conduct independent audits in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISA). The audit ensures compliance with both IFRS and local regulatory requirements. Mauritius' adoption of IFRS illustrates that it is committed to maintaining high standards of corporate governance and financial integrity and is a solid jurisdiction for international business operations. 

=> Full Information: Accounting in Mauritius: Professional Services, Companies and Regulations

Mauritius trademark registration is a building block towards intellectual property rights and acquiring brand identity in domestic as well as international markets. For companies running businesses interested in protecting their identity in Mauritius, it is made centralized under the system of national law. Offshore Company Corp provides full support to applicants undergoing the process of registration process.

The authority responsible for handling applications for trademarks is the Industrial Property Office (IPO) of Mauritius, which is under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade. The office is the competent authority where the applicants submit their applications for trademark registration, renewals, and amendments.

The key areas of interest in getting a trademark registered in Mauritius are:

• Application Filing: The applications are to be filed with the IPO in the prescribed forms either personally or through representatives.
• Search and Clearance: It is highly recommended to carry out a pre-registration search in an effort to avoid probable collisions with other marks.
• Information Required: The applicants need to provide a clear representation of the mark, owner information, goods or services information, and priority claims, if any.
• Classification System: Mauritius follows the system of Nice Classification, and trademarks are registrable in 45 classes depending on the business activity.
• Validity and Renewal: Trademark registration in Mauritius is ten years' valid, and can be renewed periodically perpetually for subsequent 10-yearly periods.

For entrepreneurs and global investors seeking to venture into Mauritius, trademark registration through the responsible authority ensures exclusive rights and automatic protection under law. With Offshore Company Services, the trademark registration process is made efficient, secure, and completely compliant with local legislation.

=> Full Information: Trademark Registration in Mauritius

For those companies expanding their businesses into Mauritius or pursuing inter-jurisdictional operations, registering a trademark is a critical step to enhancing brand integrity and defending an individual's IP. The trademark registration system is governed by the Industrial Property Act 2019 and administered by MIPO. The procedures that businesses carry out are:

1. Preparation and Classification of Trademarks

Businesses must prepare a clear drawing of the mark, logo, wordmark, slogan, or combination thereof. The application for trademark registration will also include:

• A specification of goods or services according to the Nice Classification system.
• The legal information of the applicant (e.g., name of the entity, address, details of registration). 

For companies with multiple brands or product lines under their management, classification should be done strategically to maximize protection in the applicable sectors.

2. Filing

Trademark applications should be submitted to MIPO. Foreign applicants must appoint a local representative or local IP agent. Filing can be perfected either by the applicant or its legal counsel. 

3. Examination and Publication

Once the application is submitted, MIPO undertakes:

• Formal Examination: This refers to the compliance of the application with the formal requirements of format and procedure.
• Substantial Examination: This refers to whether there exists a mark contradictory to the one applied.
• Publication: The mark is advertised in the Mauritius IP Bulletin for a statutory opposition period (usually 2 months) after acceptance. 

The registration proceeds only upon the resolution of any opposition from third parties.

4. Registration and Rights

Upon arrival at registration after opposition or after successful fighting of such opposition, the mark is registered, and a Certificate of Registration is issued. 

Key rights include:

• Exclusive use of the mark for goods/services in Mauritius
• Right to sue in case of infringement or unauthorized use of the mark
• Use of the ® symbol with the registered mark

5. Duration and Renewal

The duration of a trademark registration validly granted in Mauritius is for a period of 10 years starting from the date of filing. Thereafter, it may be renewed forever for periods of 10 years each, provided a request for renewal is filed on time.

For foreign companies, employing a reliable IP consultancy or law firm in Mauritius would ensure compliance, shorten timelines, and save from procedural delays or rejections. Offshore Company Services works with trusted local partners to assist businesses in navigating the Mauritian trademark system smoothly and efficiently.

If Mauritian regional expansion or brand localization is in your plan, then trademark registration at the earliest stage needs to be part of your brand protection and market entry strategy.

=> More Information: Trademark Registration in Mauritius

Here's a more comprehensive summary of the differences between GBC 1 and GBC 2 companies in Mauritius:

GBC 1 (Global Business Category 1) Companies:

1. Residency and Taxation:

• GBC 1 companies are considered residents of Mauritius for tax purposes.

• They are subject to a flat-rate tax of 15% on their chargeable income.

• They benefit from a Deemed Foreign Tax Credit (DFTC) of 80%, resulting in an effective tax rate of 3%.

• They can apply for a Tax Residence Certificate (TRC) and access Mauritius' network of Double Tax Treaties.

2. Requirements:

• GBC 1 companies must establish more substance in Mauritius, including having at least two directors residing in Mauritius who are qualified and independent.

• Their principal bank account must be in Mauritius.

• Accounting records must be maintained in the registered office in Mauritius.

• Financial statements must be prepared and audited in Mauritius.

3. Dealings with Mauritian Residents:

• GBC 1 companies may have dealings with Mauritian residents but require prior authorization from the Financial Services Commission (FSC).

4. Permitted Activities:

• GBC 1 companies can engage in a wide range of business activities, including those described in their business plan submitted to the FSC.

GBC 2 (Global Business Category 2) Companies:

1. Residency and Taxation:

• GBC 2 companies are not considered residents in Mauritius for tax purposes.

• They are not liable to be taxed by the Mauritian government.

• They are not eligible to benefit from the Double Taxation Treaties network.

2. Requirements:

• GBC 2 companies are expected to maintain a Registered Agent in Mauritius at all times, and only management companies can act as Registered Agents.

3. Dealings with Mauritian Residents:

• GBC 2 companies are prohibited from dealing with Mauritian residents.

4. Permitted Activities:

• GBC 2 companies are more restricted in the types of activities they can engage in. They are generally barred from engaging in certain activities, including banking, financial services, and holding or managing investment funds.

In summary, the main differences between GBC 1 and GBC 2 companies in Mauritius relate to their tax residency, tax obligations, requirements for substance in Mauritius, dealings with Mauritian residents, and permitted business activities. GBC 1 companies are residents, subject to a low tax rate, and have more flexibility in their activities, while GBC 2 companies are non-residents, exempt from taxation but have more restrictions on their operations. The choice between GBC 1 and GBC 2 depends on a company's specific objectives and tax planning requirements.