Setting up and register a company in Mauritius – The ultimate guide 2023

 

Why setting up a company in Mauritius an advantage for your business?

Setting up a company in Mauritius is ideal for entrepreneurs and corporates from all over the world looking to take advantage of the island’s robust International Financial Centre (IFC) to do business worldwide.

Mauritius provides a conducive business environment that features:

• 100% foreign ownership
• Political and economic stability;
• Investment and business-friendly country (leading international financial centre in Africa for doing business, economic freedom, competitiveness and transparency);
• Compliant with international standards (OECD, EU, FATF, etc.);
• A wide network of Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPAs);
• Member of various trade organisations (SADC, COMESA, African Union, and African Continental Free Trade Area);
• Good governance;
• Cost-efficient company formation and registered local office accommodation costs;
• No social security charges on the wages of foreign employees;
• Skilled, qualified and bilingual (English and French) workforce at a competitive rate;
• A comprehensive range of banking services with the presence of international banks;
• Strategic location and convenient time zone (GMT+4) for international transactions;
• Confidentiality for ultimate beneficial owner(s);
• No Capital Gain tax;
• Individual and corporate tax rate of 15 %;
• Free repatriation of dividends, capital and profits;
• No tax on dividends;
• No inheritance taxes;
• Innovative platform for foreign investors;
• Strategic location, close to Africa and Asia;
• A wide network of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAs);
• Modern island with up-to-date High tech facilities and devices; and
• A competent listing and capital-raising platform (Stock Exchange of Mauritius).

Drop us an email now! Benefit from all these advantages

 

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Related topics:

• Offshore company in Mauritius
• How to open an offshore bank account in Mauritius
• Relocate to Mauritius: the ideal place to live and do business

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Discover how to register a company in Mauritius to maximise your business potential?

Both foreign companies and individuals can reap the benefits of the Mauritian jurisdiction by creating and registering a company. Therefore, this process requires the services of a company formation services provider like Sunibel to facilitate the application for incorporation. No minimum capital is required, and the Mauritian laws allow for 100% foreign ownership. Aspiring business owners can easily set up a company in Mauritius by providing these essential details:

• Company name;
• Nature of business;
• Relevant Due Diligence documents;
• Date or suggested date of commencement for a company;
• Registered office address of business; and
• Telephone number and email address.

Companies may take one of the following status:

• Limited by Shares: This category of company boasts a well-designed constitution that limits the liability of shareholders in a smart way. Their responsibility is capped at the amount of their unpaid shares, providing both peace of mind and a secure investment environment.

• Limited by Guarantee: This company’s constitution ensures member security by cleverly capping their liabilities at a pre-agreed amount. This provides peace of mind even in the unlikely event of the company being wound up.

• A unique and advantageous blend, a company limited by shares and guarantee offers the best of both worlds: it caps shareholders’ liability to the amount remaining unpaid on their shares, providing a sense of security. Simultaneously, it includes a thoughtful provision where members commit to a predetermined contribution in the unlikely event of winding-up, ensuring stability and confidence in the company’s financial structure.

Other company status include:

• Unlimited Company;
• Limited Life Company; and
• One-person company.

 

What to consider upon company registration in Mauritius?

Company registration in Mauritius offers exciting opportunities and significant benefits. As you embark on this journey, it’s essential to ensure your business entity is eligible for incorporation, a process made smoother with advice from experienced professionals. This proactive approach helps in navigating any restrictions effectively.

Choosing the right business structure, such as sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability partnership, is key to aligning with your company’s objectives and supporting future growth. Mauritius’ diverse options cater to different business needs, offering flexibility and potential for expansion.

Compliance with regulatory and business requirements is straightforward in Mauritius. Obtaining a business permit, registering with the Registrar of Companies, and setting up your operations with sufficient funds, a local bank account, office space, and skilled personnel are all part of the well-defined process.

Overall, establishing a company in Mauritius is a gateway to numerous advantages like tax incentives, access to international markets, and a talented workforce. This makes Mauritius an ideal destination for business growth and success.

 

Timeline for starting a business in Mauritius

Starting a business in Mauritius is a very efficient and straightforward process. On average, it only takes 3 working days to obtain your certificate of incorporation. While the specific timeline and requirements might vary depending on the company type, necessary licences, and any additional government approvals, this process is streamlined and well-structured. Moreover, knowledgeable and experienced business registration service providers, like Sunibel, are available to offer valuable guidance and assistance, ensuring your application for incorporation meets all requirements seamlessly.

Mauritius stands tall as a premier business hub thanks to its strategic positioning between Asia and Africa. Setting up an entity in this friendly country involves identifying an ideal company type that aligns with your business operations. The approval from the reputable Financial Services Commission is the first exciting step to unlock the true potential of your business.

Set up your company today! Drop us an email

 

Before setting up an entity in Mauritius, you must therefore identify the appropriate company type for your activities, and obtain approval from the Financial Services Commission. The type of business and licences are:

• Global Business Company (GBC)

Say you envision your company to operate mostly outside Mauritius, selecting a Global Business Company (GBC) might be your best move. The GBC is a great cost-efficient structure that allows for international tax planning thanks to its robust network of Double Taxation Avoidance (DTAs).

 

• Authorised Company in Mauritius

For businesses aiming to operate and be managed outside Mauritius, an Authorised Company is the perfect fit. These companies are regarded as foreign for tax purposes and are not subject to tax in Mauritius.

 

• Global Headquarters

Multinationals striving to optimise their business operations by establishing their regional offices in Mauritius are encouraged to consider a Global Headquarters Administration licence.

 

• Protected Cell Company

If your venture fits into the Protected Cell Company (PCC) category, rest assured your assets would be legally divided, promoting enhanced security and adaptability for your various international investment structures.

 

• Variable Capital Company

For businesses targeting the traditional and alternative investment market sector, a Variable Capital Company (VCC) can be beneficial. VCCs make investing more flexible for structures that are utilising Mauritius for their outbound investments.

 

• Trusts, Foundations, Private Trust Companies and Funds

The Mauritius International Financial Centre has evolved into a trustworthy jurisdiction for establishing and operating,         Mauritius is an ideal jurisdiction for Trusts, Foundations, Private Trust Company (PTC), and Funds, emphasising on wealth and asset management, alongside prioritising inheritance planning strategies.

 

• Trading Company

A Trading Company setup can provide an incredible platform to trade goods and services internationally.

 

• Freeport Company

The Freeport of Mauritius offers an attractive cost-saving and hassle-free Trading and Shipment platform. The Mauritius Freeport is home to over 350 freeport companies spanning diverse industries, offering a host of services like cold storage, warehousing, and customs clearance facilities.

 

• Domestic Company

If your business targets the residents of Mauritius, a Domestic Company is the ideal structure, especially for consultancy services, trading, or investment holding, among others.

 

Establishing a Company in Mauritius: Key Guidelines and Procedures

Setting up a company in Mauritius benefits from well-defined protocols that align with international standards. These laws and procedures create a receptive environment for both local and international investors.

The Companies Act 2001 and the Business Registration Act 2002 are the principal regulations guiding company formation in Mauritius. Particularly, the Companies Act 2001 emphasises that a company has no obligation to have a constitution. Should a company not have one, the Act functions as the principal governing document. Compliance with this Act is absolutely necessary for every company.

The incorporation of offshore companies in Mauritius requires the approval of the Financial Services Commission, the authority responsible for regulating financial services. The body supervises and manages all related services, playing a crucial role in this island nation’s regulatory landscape.
Finally, registering each business activity with the Registrar of Companies is an integral part of company formation in Mauritius. This measure aids in maintaining transparency and helps in efficient monitoring of all businesses.

In addition, under the Companies Act 2001, companies must have:

• A minimum of one director, resident in Mauritius; and
• A registered office (in Mauritius, no PO boxes).

Contact us and start today

 

Sunibel, an experienced provider of company formation services

Setting up your business in the vibrant island nation of Mauritius? Rest assured that our highly experienced team is ready and willing to accompany you through this exciting process. We’ve proudly served a host of international clients, each time enhancing our reputation as a reliable provider of corporate, trust, fund and fiduciary services in Mauritius.

Our dedication shines brightly through our team at Mauritius Company Incorporation, where our experts demonstrate a genuine commitment to understanding your business. With this understanding, they strategically optimize your corporate structure through the business-friendly jurisdiction of Mauritius.

We offer a rich array of services tailored to your venture:

• Establishing and administering companies and structures with utmost professionalism.
• Innovatively structuring wealth through Trusts and Foundations.
• Ensuring seamless fund administration services.
• Efficient outsourcing capabilities.
• Expert advice in international taxation, finance, and accounting.
• Offering hands-on assistance for listing on the Stock Exchange.
• Assisting with permits and easing your relocation to Mauritius.

We take pride in employing our expert knowledge and experience to boost the performance and value of your business. Our state-of-the-art IT system is just another way we ensure the highest quality service, always with the utmost mind to data protection.

Additionally, we’re delighted to help you find the best location for your business or personal needs. Whether you’re looking for office spaces, targeting a commercial site, require a warehouse, or would like to invest in land for your own premises, look no further. Our partner specialists at PLEION Real Estate, exclusively versed in the Mauritius commercial and residential real estate markets, will provide invaluable support throughout your journey.

 

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Related topics:

• Offshore company in Mauritius
• The Mauritius Trust
• Relocate to Mauritius with your business and family

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FAQs: Setting up and register a company in Mauritius

1. What is the process to register a company in the Mauritius business environment?

The process of establishing a company in Mauritius involves several steps. First, reserve a company name with the local Registrar of Companies. Next, submit your Memorandum and Articles of Association to the Registrar of Companies in Mauritius to obtain a registration number. Lastly, it’s crucial to apply for a business permit with the Corporate and Business Registration Department (CBRD).

 

2. What types of companies are actively encouraged in the Mauritius business sector,?

Firstly, Mauritius encourages a wide variety of companies to operate within its borders, including Authorised Companies, Global Business Companies, limited liability companies, and many more. The choice of company type should be based on your business activities and operations scope in Mauritius.

 

3. What is the significance of a registered office in Mauritius?

All companies in Mauritius must have a registered office. This serves as their official company address where all communications, notices, and documents are sent. The office must adhere to standard business hours and ensure accessibility to the public. This requirement is unique to the business culture of Mauritius to ensure transparency.

 

4. Do I need to liaise with a local management company prior to registering a new company in Mauritius?

Yes, the registration and administration of a company in the distinctive Mauritius business environment require a resident registered agent who is a management company. This local company will be responsible for retaining the company’s records in Mauritius.

 

5. What role does a Mauritius Authorised Company (AC) play in the Mauritius business arena?

In the business landscape of Mauritius, an AC signifies an entity licensed and regulated by Mauritius Financial Services Commission (FSC). High-net-worth individuals or institutions primarily use this company for investment purposes. An AC can carry out a broad spectrum of activities, promoting foreign investments and boosting Mauritius’s global business reputation.

 

Contact Sunibel today for setting up your own business in Mauritius!

 

 

Disclaimer and important notices

This document has been prepared using sources believed to be reliable. However, their accuracy and completeness cannot be fully guaranteed. The statements and opinions it incorporates were formed after careful consideration and maybe subject to change without notice. This document is not, and should not be construed as, an offer or the solicitation of an offer to sell any services. The use of any information contained in this document shall be at the sole discretion and risk of the user.

Sunibel Corporate Services Ltd does not provide legal or tax advice and this document should not be construed as such. Sunibel Corporate Services Ltd expressly disclaims any and all liability for inaccuracies contained in the document and shall not be held liable for any damage that may result from any use of the information presented herein.

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