Your Journey to Secure Land Ownership.
A comprehensive, step-by-step guide to navigating the legal and administrative landscape of property acquisition in Mauritius.
The 5 Pillars of a Safe Purchase
The Step-by-Step Guide
Due Diligence & Verification
Title Deed Search: Verify the seller’s ownership via the “Transcription” at the Registrar General.
Site Plan (Pin Survey)
Ensure the land boundaries match the official site plan provided by a sworn land surveyor.
Zoning Check
Confirm if the land is “Residential,” “Agricultural,” or part of a specific scheme (Smart City/PDS).
The Reservation
Mention the security deposit (usually 10%) and that it should be held in an Escrow Account (Compte Séquestre) by the Notary, not paid directly to the seller.
Appointing a Notary
-
In Mauritius, the Notary is impartial and mandatory.
-
Highlight that the buyer has the right to choose their own Notary.
-
The Notary’s role: Verifying liens (charges), mortgages, and drafting the final deed.
Statutory Clearances
-
Letter of Intent: For certain developments.
-
Non-Citizen Applications: If applicable, mention the Economic Development Board (EDB) approval process.
Execution of the Deed of Sale
-
The signing of the Acte de Vente.
-
Payment of the balance of the purchase price.
-
Payment of Registration Duty (usually 5%) and Notary Fees (calculated on a sliding scale).
- Agency fees 2%+ VAT should be settled on day of sale or acquisition.