Register company in Mauritius

Fionza Consultants specializes in facilitating the seamless registration of companies in Mauritius for our global clientele. Mauritius is a highly sought-after offshore jurisdiction, offering a myriad of tax advantages to savvy investors. Our comprehensive suite of services encompasses the incorporation of Mauritius companies, establishment of Investment Dealer entities, formation of Mauritius funds, corporate bank account initiation, and the establishment of trusts or foundations. Trust Fionza Consultants to be your trusted partner in navigating the Mauritius business landscape with expertise and efficiency.

Mauritius

Company Registration – 2 Week
Local Director? – Yes
Bank Account Opening – 4 Weeks
Travel Required – No

Register company in Mauritius

Registering a company in Mauritius can be a hassle-free process when you have the right guidance. At Fionza Consultants, we specialize in streamlining the Mauritius company registration process, allowing you to direct your time and efforts toward growing your business. Our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring a seamless experience when setting up your new company with the Registrar of Companies. We are committed to getting your business up and running within the necessary timeframe. Our comprehensive service package includes:

Planning and Strategy: We offer expert guidance in planning and strategizing the setup of your company in Mauritius.
Mauritius Company Formation with Companies and Business Registration Integrated System (CBRIS): Our streamlined approach ensures efficient company formation using the CBRIS system.
Company Secretary and Registered Local Address: We provide essential company secretary services and a registered local address to meet legal requirements.
Passive Nominee Director Service: If needed, we can assist with passive nominee director services for added flexibility.
Opening of a Corporate Bank Account: We facilitate the process of opening a corporate bank account for your business.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to discover more about how to establish a company in Mauritius. Our team of experts will respond promptly, typically within the next 24 hours. Let Fionza Consultants be your trusted partner in realizing your business ambitions in Mauritius. Contact us today!

Timeline to register Mauritius company

Fionza Consultants is committed to expediting the company registration process in Mauritius for our international clients. Here’s a breakdown of the timeline you can expect:
1. Company Registration in Mauritius: Upon receiving the necessary due diligence documents from the directors and shareholders, we will complete the company registration process swiftly. You can anticipate your company being registered in Mauritius within approximately 2 weeks.
2. Corporate Bank Account Opening: Following the successful registration of your company, we will initiate the process of opening a corporate bank account. Our goal is to have your business bank account up and running within 4 weeks from the date of company registration.
3. Commencement of Operations: In total, you can reasonably expect to commence your business operations in Mauritius within approximately 6 weeks after engaging Fionza Consultants.

How do I register a Mauritius company?

When it comes to selecting the ideal business structure for your venture, Fionza Consultants goes the extra mile. Before commencing the incorporation process, we delve deep into your specific business requirements and operations. Our initial step involves conducting a thorough Mauritius business entity search to identify the most suitable structure for your enterprise. We base our recommendation on your unique needs.

Reservation of Your Business Name: Ensuring your preferred business name is available is crucial. Fionza Consultants takes care of this by conducting a name availability check and reserving it with the Registrar of Companies.

Meeting Incorporation Requirements: To initiate the company incorporation process, we require essential documents from you. These include personal information of key stakeholders, financial statements, bank statements, the Certificate of Incorporation, the company’s constitution, and proof of the registered office address. Should original documents be unavailable, notarized copies will suffice.

Efficient Registration Process: Our seasoned legal team handles the preparation of all necessary documents, including incorporation forms. What sets us apart is our ability to complete foreign company registration in Mauritius on your behalf, eliminating the need for your physical presence.

Document Delivery: Once the registration is finalized, we promptly dispatch all pertinent documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation, Articles of Association, and Business Registration Card, to your designated address.

Additional License Procurement: If your business requires supplementary licenses post-incorporation, rest assured that Fionza Consultants has you covered.

Seamless Bank Account Opening: Leveraging our extensive banking network, Fionza Consultants facilitates the hassle-free opening of a corporate bank account with a renowned international bank in Mauritius.

Stringent Compliance: Even after the incorporation process, our dedicated team ensures your ongoing compliance with local laws.

Types of offshore companies in Mauritius

In preparation for your Mauritius company formation, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the diverse business entity options available in Mauritius. Two prominent offshore entities to consider are the Global Business Corporation (GBC) and the Mauritius Authorized Company (MAC).

Global Business Corporation (GBC): For those seeking to establish a new company in Mauritius to engage in financial services, Fionza Consultants highly recommends incorporating a Global Business Corporation (GBC) in Mauritius. GBC entities are licensed by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and are subject to regulation under the Companies Act 2001 and the Financial Services Development Act 2001.

Previously, there were two categories, GBC 1 and GBC 2, where the former was considered a resident company for financial services (taxable), and the latter was a non-resident company suited for trading and holding (tax-exempt). However, GBC 1 and GBC 2 distinctions no longer apply.

To secure a GBC license, our international clients must demonstrate economic substance in Mauritius, including having two local resident directors, one shareholder, a corporate bank account in Mauritius, maintaining accounting records in Mauritius, and auditing annual financial statements in Mauritius, among other requirements.

GBCs that meet these economic substance criteria are entitled to an 80% tax exemption regime on various income sources, including foreign dividends, foreign-sourced interest income, and more. Additionally, obtaining a Tax Residence Certificate enables Mauritius GBCs to benefit from Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements with 50 other countries.

Mauritius Authorized Company (MAC): For businesses engaged in international trade, investment holding, intellectual property ownership, and non-financial services, Fionza Consultants recommends the incorporation of a Mauritius Authorized Company (MAC). MACs are regulated under the Financial Services Act 2007.

Requirements for MACs include having one director (local not necessary), one shareholder, one registered local resident agent, conducting business primarily outside Mauritius, and maintaining a management team located outside Mauritius.

As a non-resident company, MACs are exempt from corporate tax, capital gains tax, and withholding tax in Mauritius. They are only required to file an annual return with the Mauritius Revenue Authority within 6 months before the end of their financial year and submit a financial summary to the Financial Services Commission. Additionally, records of such companies are not publicly accessible.

Types of onshore companies in Mauritius

Before embarking on the journey of company registration in Mauritius, Fionza Consultants places great emphasis on comprehending your specific business needs and activities. This ensures that we can provide you with the most fitting entity recommendation from the array of options available in the country. Mauritius offers a variety of onshore business structures, each tailored to unique purposes and objectives, including Limited Liability Companies (LLC), Free Zone Companies, Representative Offices, and more.

Mauritius Limited Liability Company (LLC): For those aiming to establish a local business presence in Mauritius and engage in activities with the local populace, an LLC may be the ideal choice. The requirements for this entity typically include a single shareholder and one local resident director. Setting up an LLC involves registration with the Registrar of Companies under the provisions of the Companies Act 2001. Additionally, the company must secure a business license from the relevant authorities to commence operations.

Mauritius Free Zone Company: If your goal is to establish a trading company that leverages a cost-effective logistics platform, Fionza Consultants strongly recommends the registration of a Free Zone company. This choice offers significant benefits, including duty-free and VAT exemptions on imported goods arriving at Mauritian ports. To qualify, such a company must export a substantial portion of its goods, with approximately 95% destined for international markets, primarily within Africa. The remaining 5% can be sold domestically, subject to government-imposed taxes. Additionally, obtaining a Freeport operator’s license is a prerequisite for establishing a company within any of Mauritius’ Free Zones.

Mauritius Branch Office: For those seeking to penetrate the Mauritian market while maintaining a connection with their parent company, establishing a branch office is a viable option. The scope of activities permissible for the branch office will be determined by the nature of the parent company’s activities. Basic requirements include having a local resident representative, a registered office address, and the acquisition of licenses as mandated by your specific business operations.

Since a Mauritius Branch Office is considered a resident company, it is subject to a corporate tax rate of 15%.

Advantages of setting up a company in Mauritius

Mauritius stands out as a favored destination for foreign investors due to its attractive tax incentives and openness to financial services businesses. In this jurisdiction, non-resident companies can benefit from exemptions in corporate tax, capital gain tax, and withholding tax. Furthermore, international clients are welcome to establish various entities, including funds, investment dealer companies, fund management firms, payment service providers, and insurance brokers. Registering a company in Mauritius offers a high level of confidentiality for beneficial owners since company registers are not publicly accessible. Additionally, it’s crucial to assess the political and business environment of the country, which we’ve analyzed using a PESTEL framework to ensure your business operations are secure and compliant with your objectives.

Political: Mauritius boasts a stable and prosperous political environment with a democratic government. Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index rates Mauritius at 51 out of 100, indicating gradual improvements in corruption levels due to a free press and an evolving legal system.

Economic: Mauritius ranks 13th worldwide for ease of doing business according to the World Bank’s Doing Business Report. Despite a temporary setback due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the country is expected to rebound in 2021, with a forecasted growth rate of 5.2% by the International Monetary Fund. Mauritius has also established Double Taxation Agreements with over 50 countries, enhancing its economic appeal.

Social: The nation boasts a skilled workforce with a high literacy rate and is actively investing in education and training to promote social equality and reduce poverty. Mauritius is an active member of regional organizations like the African Union, Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, and COMESA.

Technological: Mauritius is evolving into a global technological hub, attracting international ICT companies with government incentives. The establishment of the ‘Fintech and Innovation-Driven Financial Services Regulatory Committee’ in 2018 highlights its commitment to developing the FinTech sector, and Mauritius was a pioneer in recognizing digital assets as an asset class.

Environmental: The Mauritian government is committed to environmental protection, with initiatives including an Integrated Water Resource Management Plan and efficient waste collection programs. Stringent environmental legislation aims to reduce pollution and combat climate change.

Legal: Mauritius possesses a robust legal system influenced by both French civil law and British common law. It offers business-friendly policies and cost-effective jurisdictions, making it an ideal choice for offshore company setups. The government has also ratified numerous conventions and agreements to safeguard industrial property rights, catering to foreign investors.

These factors collectively make Mauritius an attractive and promising destination for overseas investors looking to establish and grow their businesses while benefiting from a favorable business environment.

Accounting and tax considerations

The Mauritian tax system for companies offers several advantages and requirements:

Corporate Income Tax Rate: The corporate income tax rate in Mauritius is 15%.

Tax Exemptions: Companies established in Mauritius can benefit from tax exemptions. The level of exemption, either 80% or 100%, depends on the business entity and the presence of economic substance.

Dividend Tax: Dividends paid by a Mauritius-resident company are exempt from income tax. However, foreign dividends are taxable.

Tax Payment Schedule: Companies are required to pay their taxes on a quarterly basis and must settle their tax payable within six months before the end of the fiscal year.

Annual Tax Returns: Companies are obligated to file annual tax returns. Failure to do so within the stipulated timeframe may result in fees or penalties.

Auditing Requirement: Companies in Mauritius must undergo audits conducted by the Mauritius Institute of Professional Accountants (MIPA) in accordance with the Financial Reporting Act of 2004. They are also required to submit their Audited Financial Statements to the Financial Services Commission (FSC) within six months before the end of the fiscal year.

FAQ

What business can I start in Mauritius?

You can start any business in Mauritius ranging from small businesses such as having an internet café or large businesses such as wholesale and trading business. There is no limitation imposed by the government on the type of business you can begin.

Which business is most profitable in Mauritius?

The business that is most profitable in Mauritius, is the internet trade. In this digital world, the internet is extremely important for individuals and companies. You can start a business as an internet service provider. Alternatively, setting up an internet café will require relatively low capital and will also be profitable for your business.

The tourism sector was one of the most thriving industries in Mauritius. However, with the Covid-19 pandemic, this industry has suffered and therefore, may not be as profitable for your business.

Can a foreigner start a business in Mauritius?

Yes, a foreigner can start a business in Mauritius if the individual meets the minimum legal requirements. This individual will have complete ownership of the company but might require a local resident director or secretary depending on the form of entity you have chosen for your business.

What is the cost of setting up a company in Mauritius?

The total engagement fee depends on the services you require from Fionza Consultants. Our services range from planning and strategizing to incorporating your business.

This fee includes the incorporation costs and any additional government fees. Before we start the registration process, we will discuss the cost in detail. You can check our fees here.

Where can I register a company in Mauritius?

You must register the company on Mauritius Network Services (MNS). Following this, you need to check if you have all the required documents and submit the same with the application form to the authorities. There are multiple steps to the registration process. You can refer to our website for a more detailed explanation or contact us for more information.

Why do people set up companies in Mauritius?

Mauritius has established itself as a popular jurisdiction to set up companies. This is because of the multiple tax benefits and exemptions given by the government. Moreover, there is a stable political and economic environment in the country along with business-friendly policies.

What is the best business to start in Mauritius?

There are multiple business opportunities available to you in Mauritius. One such opportunity is being an internet service provider. This is because of the trend towards digitalisation over the past years. You can take advantage of the huge demand for the internet by opening an internet café. Another possible business opportunity available to you is e-commerce, which is another growing trend over the past years, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. You can take advantage of the existing online platforms to start your business, thus requiring a low capital investment.

Do I need to apply for an Employer Registration Number?

No, you do not need to apply for an employer registration number (ERN) separately. When you are applying to the Registrar of Business for registration of the business, you will need to indicate whether you will recruit employees for the business in the application form. The Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) will automatically register you as an employer and will provide the company with an ERN.

Why is setting up a fund in Mauritius popular among businesses?

Mauritius is a popular jurisdiction for fund managers and investors because of the low tax rates levied by the government and the extensive network of tax treaties with over 44 countries. Additionally, its stable legal system and regulatory environment further allow it to be a cost-effective jurisdiction. In order to set up a fund, management companies in Mauritius who are licensed by FSC should complete the application process.

Why is setting up a trust in Mauritius popular among businesses?

Setting up a trust in Mauritius may be advantageous because of the flexibility offered by the governmental policies. The trustees have the authority to determine who would be beneficiaries of the capital and income of the trust. It further helps preserve the family assets from mismanagement and also allows for the continuation of the family business.

Register company in Mauritius