Company Formation in Mauritius

How to incorporate a company in Mauritius

The incorporation process in Mauritius requires the provision of legal documents. These include the constitution and bylaws. Companies may need to provide a small amount of share capital. The necessity varies based on the type of company formed.

Companies can now execute the entire Mauritius incorporation process from a distance. They prepare and send documents electronically. The companies don’t need to be there on the island in person. After receiving all documents, Mauritius registers businesses in 3 to 5 business days.

Mauritius offers flexibility in business structures. Investors can choose different types of companies. Examples are private limited liability companies and global business companies. Foundations are also an option.

Mauritius has a business-friendly environment. Laws are clear and transparent. The Mauritius government streamlines incorporation procedures, which creates an attractive climate for domestic and international investors.

What are the taxes for companies in Mauritius

Mauritius is a good place to form a company due to its tax advantages, political stability, and modern infrastructure.

Corporate Taxes in Mauritius

As indicated by the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA), companies in Mauritius pay a 15% corporate tax on their taxable income.

However, certain commercial activities qualified as “global” or “offshore” may be exempt from tax or pay only a portion of it, depending on their nature. The MRA oversees the implementation of the tax regime and provides details on corporate tax obligations. Contact LegalBison directly for a broad assessment of the applicable taxation of your activities in Mauritius.

What are the bookkeeping and audit requirements in Mauritius

Local rules mandate Mauritian companies to follow accounting and bookkeeping requirements. The companies must keep all financial accounts and records at the registered office.

Some companies must have audits each year. This depends on the type of company and how much work they do. Accredited auditors in Mauritius perform the audits on the company’s records and finances.

These requirements follow international standards. This provides more transparency for companies. It also assists companies in following the rules. Mauritius brings its bookkeeping and audit requirements in line with international standards. This provides increased transparency and compliance for companies.

Registry of companies registered in Mauritius

A frequent question from LegalBison’s clients regards the publicity of company information for businesses registered in Mauritius.

Registry of Directors in Mauritius

A public register in Mauritius contains information about company directors.

The Mauritian Companies Act is a law from 2001 that makes companies reveal directors’ names. The law also requires companies to disclose directors’ addresses, and the disclosure must be public.

Directors do not have to be present in Mauritius. Specific rules govern the appointment of foreign directors, which allows international companies to appoint qualified, experienced directors from other countries.

The Registry of Directors plays an important role in transparency and governance. It allows verification of information about company leaders. The public and stakeholders can ensure responsible, ethical management.

Mauritius has strict measures to prevent abuse related to director appointments. Authorities watch for changes in the registry, which ensures integrity and compliance with regulations.

Registry of shareholders in Mauritius

The law requires Mauritian companies to maintain a shareholder register. Yet, this information remains private, and competent authorities can only access the register with a valid reason.

Keeping shareholding structures confidential is beneficial for international business activities. It allows investors discretion about their participation in a Mauritian company.

Mauritius keeps the shareholder register confidential, which helps investors feel more confident about doing business there. Protecting sensitive information creates a good environment that encourages international investment and economic growth in Mauritius.

Strict data protection laws exist in Mauritius to ensure that the shareholder register information gets the utmost privacy and confidentiality. The measures reinforce Mauritius’ reputation as a reliable, confidentiality-respecting financial center.

Are nominee services legal in Mauritius?

Mauritian law does not prohibit using nominee shareholders or directors. However, strict conditions govern this practice to ensure transparency and prevent abuse.

Only licensed providers like regulated trust companies can provide nominee services. Providers must disclose the true economic beneficiaries.

Companies must follow certain rules when using nominees. The rules relate to anti-money laundering laws and the laws against financing terrorism, which all companies must obey.

Mauritian authorities make sure that nominee practices meet international standards. This guarantees the integrity of Mauritius’ financial system.

Transparency and regulation compliance are essential. They maintain Mauritius’ reputation as a respected, reliable financial center.

By promoting responsible, ethical corporate governance, Mauritius strengthens its position as a trusted investment destination for domestic and international companies.

Requirements of economic substance in Mauritius

Mauritius requires economic substance for companies registered in the country. You can do some steps online. However, registering a company in Mauritius requires procedures on-site. Luckily, these procedures can be outsourced to a trusted legal partner such as LegalBison.

Economic Substance in Mauritius

You must show real business activity in Mauritius to register a company there. This means having an office address in Mauritius. It might also mean having commercial space in Mauritius. In that case, you will need employees working on site, in Mauritius.

However, the requirements may vary depending on the intended activities’ nature and extent. In some cases, a simple administrative presence on the island may suffice. The competent authorities assess and approve this. Mauritius places great importance on economic substance. This prevents tax evasion practices and ensures that the companies contribute to infrastructure and public services.

Registered companies need to show genuine dedication to Mauritius’ local economy. They must take part in the island’s economic and social progress. Economic substance strengthens the credibility and legitimacy of companies operating in Mauritius, which can help in building business connections with local and international partners.

By emphasizing economic substance, Mauritius establishes itself as an attractive jurisdiction that appeals to companies seeking a lasting regional presence.

The Investment Guide from the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Mauritius covering financial regulations and tax incentives on their official website provides information on the advantageous tax regimes to attract foreign investments, such as a reduced corporate tax rate, partial tax exemptions for certain sectors, or a foreign tax credit.

Residency requirements of shareholders and directors in Mauritius

Shareholders and directors are not required to reside in Mauritius or be Mauritian.

The law allows foreign individuals as officers or owners. Mauritius requires only a few formalities for these non-resident individuals. This flexibility about residency makes Mauritius appealing for international investment. Entrepreneurs and investors can come from any country and start businesses in Mauritius without having to visit.

This openness brings diversity and internationalization to Mauritian companies, enhancing their competitiveness globally. Foreign shareholders and directors often have valuable expertise and networks. They contribute to growth and prosperity in Mauritius.

Mauritius welcomes entrepreneurs worldwide, which positions the country as a dynamic and cosmopolitan business center.

Bank account opening for a company registered in Mauritius

Opening a bank account for a Mauritian company is often challenging as local banks have very strict criteria. LegalBison helps clients with this process and coordinates with financial institutions.

However, each bank decides if they will open an account for a Mauritius company. This depends on meeting their requirements and no provider can guarantee 100% that an account will be opened. Mauritian banks need evidence of genuine business operations and details of the owners.

A company’s reputation and financial history matter since banks care about transparency and following rules for preventing money laundering and terrorism financing.

Account opening times vary between banks. The process can take a long time. But with proper help, companies increase their chances. Clients must provide solid proof of business legitimacy and share the owners’ details. Banks check reputations and finances.

The different types of company in Mauritius

Mauritius has different types of companies: a private limited liability company (Ltd), a global business company (GBC), and an international company (IBC). Mauritius also allows for foundations and trusts.

Private Limited Liability Company (Ltd)

The private limited liability company is very common in Mauritius. In fact, it is the most common type of business. Many companies choose this form in Mauritius. As its name suggests, it offers limited liability to its shareholders, and this flexible structure is suitable for small and medium-sized businesses operating internationally.

Global Business Company (GBC)

Global business companies represent a preferred vehicle for international business activities. The Companies Act creates private limited liability companies. These companies get tax benefits: under some conditions, they do not pay taxes whatsoever. GBCs are popular for offshore trading, holding investments, and managing intellectual property.

International Business Company (IBC)

International Business Companies (IBCs) are for international operations. IBCs allow companies to pay less taxes in Mauritius. Non-residents often use IBCs for offshore activities, using IBCs as holding companies and for asset management. The tax advantages make IBCs attractive structures.

Trust

Trusts are legal setups where one person holds assets for the benefit of another. In Mauritius, trusts are often used for planning estates, managing wealth, and protecting assets.

Foundation

Foundations are legal entities in Mauritius. People can set up foundations for different purposes. Examples are philanthropy or private wealth management. Foundations follow a special law in Mauritius, which allows flexibility in managing funds. The funds go towards predetermined goals.