Before 2002, foreigners couldn't buy property in Mauritius, the IRS, or Integrated Resort Scheme, is an initiative of the Government of Mauritius, to facilitate acquisition of property by non-citizens.

All IRS are meant for development of luxurious residential units on freehold land of more than 10 hectares, in particular locations, such as golf, marina, etc. Requiring a minimum investment of USD 375,000, a non-citizen is entitled (as well as his spouse and any dependents) to a permanent resident permit as long as he holds the property. IRS schemes offer high class leisure, activities, and commercial amenities. Day to day management services such as security, maintenance, gardening, etc. are also included.

Under the Real Estate Scheme (RES), properties can be acquired by non-citizens at no minimum price. But unlike the IRS it does not confer permanent residence by default, unless the acquisition is worth more or equal to USD 375,000. RES are intended to be developed on reduced surfaces (freehold land only), starting from 1 arpent and not exceeding 10 hectares. Commercial facilities, leisure amenities as well as day to day management services (such as security, maintenance and gardening etc) are provided in the scheme.

The Property Development Scheme (PDS), which has replaced the IRS and RES, allows the development of a mix of residences for sale to non-citizens, citizens and members of the Mauritian Diaspora. The PDS provides the development of luxurious residential units on freehold land of an extent of at least 0.4220 hectare (1 arpent); the development of at least six (6) residential properties of high standing; high quality public spaces that helps promote social interaction and a sense of community; high-class leisure, commercial amenities and facilities intended to enhance the residential units; day-to-day management services to residents including security, maintenance, gardening, solid waste disposal and household services and social contribution in terms of social amenities, community development and other facilities for the benefit of the community. A non-citizen is eligible for a residence permit upon the purchase of a villa under the PDS scheme when he has invested more than USD 375,000 or its equivalent in any freely convertible foreign currency.

You are invited to browse the list of IRS, RES and PDS projects proposed by MCL.