The Property Development Scheme (PDS)
The Property Development Scheme (PDS) allows the development of a mix of residences and the programme is designed to facilitate the acquisition of residential property by non-citizens in Mauritius. The PDS is basically an integrated project with social dimensions for the benefit of the neighbouring community and allows for the development and sale of high standing residential units mainly to foreigners.
The Property Development Scheme provides for the following:
- development of luxurious residential units on freehold land of an extent of at least 0.4220 hectare (1 arpent)
- high quality public spaces that helps promote social interaction and a sense of community
- high-class leisure, commercial amenities and facilities intended to enhance the residential units.
- day-to-day management services to residents including security, maintenance, gardening, solid waste disposal and household services.
- social contribution in terms of social amenities, community development and other facilities for the benefit of the community.
Eligibility for Acquisition of Residential Property
The following persons may acquire a residential property from a PDS Company:
(a) a natural person, whether a citizen of Mauritius, a non-citizen or a member of the Mauritian Diaspora
(b) a company incorporated or registered under the Companies Act
(c) a société, where its deed of formation is deposited with the Registrar of Companies
(d) a limited partnership under the Limited Partnerships Act
(e) a trust, where the trusteeship services are provided by a qualified trustee
(f) Foundation under the Foundations Act.
Note: A qualified global business as defined under the Financial Services Act 2007 holding a Global Business Licence may acquire property under the PDS scheme.
Permanent Residence Permit
A non-citizen is eligible for a residence permit upon the purchase of a villa under the Property Development Scheme (PDS) scheme when he has invested more than USD 375,000, or its equivalent in any freely convertible foreign currency. Non-citizens who have a residence permit under PDS will be exempted from an Occupation or Work permit to invest and work in Mauritius.
The PDS is also a demarcation from the formerly IRS and RES in as much as it does not differentiate between small and big landowners and harmonizes the registration duty to a single rate of 5%, instead of USD 70,000 on registration of a deed under IRS and USD 25,000 under RES.