Mauritius
Incorporation package includes
- Incorporation of a Mautirius company
- 1 year Registered Office Address
- 1 year Company Secretary Services
- Preparation of necessary resolutions and documentation
- Guidance to ensure your company remains in good standing
- Reminders and support for annual filings, renewals, and business registration renewals
Why form a company in Mauritius?
Favorable Tax Regime
Mauritius offers a low-tax environment, with competitive corporate tax rates and no capital gains tax. Tax incentives make it a strategic location for holding and trading companies.
Double Taxation Agreements
Mauritius has a wide network of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA), allowing companies to benefit from tax relief in other jurisdictions.
Political and Economic Stability
Mauritius is known for its stable government, well-developed financial sector, and robust legal framework based on English common law, making it a secure choice for investors.
Access to African Markets
Mauritius serves as a gateway to African markets and offers preferential trade agreements with African countries, including under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Strong Regulatory Environment
Mauritius has a transparent, well-regulated environment in line with international standards, enhancing its reputation as a reliable jurisdiction.
Full Foreign Ownership and Repatriation
Foreign investors can fully own companies in Mauritius and repatriate profits without restrictions.
Enjoy Mauritius's tax benefits
Foreign Income Tax Exemption
Income earned outside of Mauritius can be exempt from taxation.
Low Corporate Tax Rate
The standard corporate tax rate is 15%, with effective rates often lower due to incentives.
Tax Treaties
Mauritius has a wide network of double taxation treaties, reducing tax liabilities on international income.
No Capital Gains Tax
Gains from the sale of shares and property are not taxed.
Tax Incentives for Global Business Companies
Special regimes offer reduced tax rates and exemptions for eligible businesses.
Delivery timeline
The setup process for a Mauritius IBC generally takes 2-3 weeks, depending on the company type and regulatory requirements. Here’s a typical timeline:
Document Submission
Preparation and submission of incorporation documents to the FSC and preliminary review.
Company Registration & Licensing
Once approved, the FSC issues the Certificate of Incorporation, and the company can officially operate.
Bank Account Opening
Bank account setup may be initiated upon registration, with timelines dependent on the bank’s due diligence process.
Differences between AC and GBC 1
Feature
Authorized Company
Global Business Company
Purpose
Primarily used for business conducted outside Mauritius, particularly for asset protection, investment holding, and international trade.
Ideal for companies seeking to operate internationally but with a strong presence in Mauritius, including investment, asset management, and trade.
Taxation
ACs are considered non-resident for tax purposes and thus are not subject to Mauritius corporate tax. However, they are required to declare their non-resident status annually.
GBC 1 companies are considered resident in Mauritius and are subject to corporate tax at a reduced rate of 15%, with potential tax credits and an effective tax rate often as low as 3%.
Regulations
ACs have fewer regulatory requirements, with no need for audited financial statements, and they aren’t required to appoint a local Mauritian director.
More heavily regulated, with requirements to file annual financial statements and conduct regular audits.
Substance Requirements
Generally minimal, as ACs are intended for offshore activities.
GBC 1 companies must demonstrate substantial presence in Mauritius, including having a local director, office, and qualified employees, and are subject to enhanced regulatory oversight.
Confidentiality
High level of confidentiality, as ACs are subject to limited public disclosure requirements.
While subject to more disclosure, GBC 1 companies still benefit from Mauritius’ strong confidentiality laws, which protect sensitive business information.
Restrictions
ACs are prohibited from engaging in activities within Mauritius and cannot benefit from Mauritius’ DTAA network.
GBC 1 companies can benefit from Mauritius’ extensive DTAA network, allowing for significant tax relief in other jurisdictions.
Speedy Incorp's
recommendcation
ACs are best suited for purely offshore activities with minimal regulatory requirements.
GBC 1 companies are advantageous for businesses needing tax treaty benefits and a robust presence in Mauritius.
Authorized Company
Purpose
Primarily used for business conducted outside Mauritius, particularly for asset protection, investment holding, and international trade.
Taxation
ACs are considered non-resident for tax purposes and thus are not subject to Mauritius corporate tax. However, they are required to declare their non-resident status annually.
Regulations
ACs have fewer regulatory requirements, with no need for audited financial statements, and they aren’t required to appoint a local Mauritian director.
Substance Requirements
Generally minimal, as ACs are intended for offshore activities.
Confidentiality
High level of confidentiality, as ACs are subject to limited public disclosure requirements.
Restrictions
ACs are prohibited from engaging in activities within Mauritius and cannot benefit from Mauritius’ DTAA network.
Speedy Incorp's recommendcation
ACs are best suited for purely offshore activities with minimal regulatory requirements.
Global Business Company
Purpose
Ideal for companies seeking to operate internationally but with a strong presence in Mauritius, including investment, asset management, and trade.
Taxation
GBC 1 companies are considered resident in Mauritius and are subject to corporate tax at a reduced rate of 15%, with potential tax credits and an effective tax rate often as low as 3%.
Regulations
More heavily regulated, with requirements to file annual financial statements and conduct regular audits.
Substance Requirements
GBC 1 companies must demonstrate substantial presence in Mauritius, including having a local director, office, and qualified employees, and are subject to enhanced regulatory oversight.
Confidentiality
While subject to more disclosure, GBC 1 companies still benefit from Mauritius’ strong confidentiality laws, which protect sensitive business information.
Restrictions
GBC 1 companies can benefit from Mauritius’ extensive DTAA network, allowing for significant tax relief in other jurisdictions.
Speedy Incorp's recommendcation
GBC 1 companies are advantageous for businesses needing tax treaty benefits and a robust presence in Mauritius.
Required documents
To establish a company in Mauritius, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
Passport Copies
Clear, color copies of passports for each shareholder and director.
Proof of Address
Recent utility bill or bank statement as proof of residential address for each shareholder and director.
Bank Reference Letter (if applicable)
A bank reference letter may be required, especially for foreign shareholders, depending on the bank’s policies.
Business Plan (for GBC 1)
A detailed business plan may be required for GBC 1 companies, outlining business activities, markets, and objectives.
Specimen Signature
Signed specimen signatures for each shareholder and director.
Due Diligence Documents
Any additional due diligence documents requested by the FSC or banking partners, especially for GBC 1 entities.
Frequently answered questions
Find answers to common questions about our services and the company formation process. We’re here to provide clarity and support for your business journey.
What is the difference between a GBC and an Authorized Company in Mauritius?
Global Business Company (GBC):
- Taxed at a low rate (typically 3%) on foreign income.
- Can access Mauritius’ DTAAs.
- Must have substantial presence in Mauritius (e.g., local director, bank account, office).
Authorized Company:
- Not taxed in Mauritius but cannot benefit from DTAAs.
- Primarily for businesses with operations and income entirely outside Mauritius.
- Does not require a substantial presence in Mauritius.
What are the reporting and compliance requirements for Mauritius offshore companies?
Reporting requirements depend on the type of offshore company:
Global Business Companies (GBCs):
- Must file audited financial statements annually.
- Maintain a local registered office, director, and compliance officer.
Authorized Companies:
- No audit or financial statement filing required.
- Maintain a registered agent in Mauritius.
Both company types must comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations.
How long does it take to register an offshore company in Mauritius?
The incorporation process for a Mauritius offshore company typically takes:
- 5-10 business days for Global Business Companies (GBCs), subject to compliance checks and approval from the Financial Services Commission (FSC).
- 2-5 business days for Authorized Companies, as the process is simpler and less regulated.
Providing complete and accurate documentation can expedite the process.
What are the advantages of setting up an offshore company in Mauritius?
Mauritius offshore companies offer significant benefits:
- Tax Efficiency: Global Business Companies (GBCs) can benefit from a low corporate tax rate (as low as 3%) and access to Mauritius’ extensive Double Taxation
- Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs).
Confidentiality: Shareholder and director details are not publicly disclosed. - Business Flexibility: Suitable for holding assets, international trading, and investment management.
- Political and Economic Stability: Mauritius provides a secure and business-friendly environment.
