Business
Mauritius Surges to 13th in Global Residence Rankings as Investor Appeal Grows
Mauritius has climbed three places to rank 13th globally in the Henley & Partners Residence Program Index 2026, marking a significant recovery in its international standing as a premier destination for foreign investors.
The island nation saw its overall score improve to 50 points this year, up from 49 in 2025.
This upward trajectory reverses a slight dip seen last year, positioning the country as one of the most competitive jurisdictions for residency-by-investment, particularly within the African continent.
A Hub for Business and Quality of Life
The 2026 report highlights the nation’s sustained economic growth and business-friendly environment.
Experts noted that Mauritius remains a “powerhouse for attracting significant foreign investment,” citing specific advantages for citizens of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The country’s performance was bolstered by high marks in several key categories:
| Categories | Score |
| Reputation | 7 |
| Quality of Life | 8 |
| Taxation | 8 |
| Visa-free access or visa on arrival | 2 |
| Processing time | 7 |
| Compliance | 6 |
| Investment requirements | 6 |
| Total costs | 6 |
| Time to citizenship | 0 |
| Citizenship requirements | 0 |
Despite these strengths, the index revealed areas for potential reform. Mauritius scored significantly lower in Visa-free access (2/10) and received zero points for Time to citizenship and Citizenship requirements, reflecting the program’s strict focus on residency rather than immediate naturalisation.
Comparative Global Standings
While Mauritius continues to lead regionally, it trails the global “Top 5,” which remains dominated by European and Commonwealth nations.
Greece holds the top spot with a score of 73, followed closely by a three-way tie between Italy, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates at 72. Portugal (71), Australia (69), and Canada (68) round out the elite tier.
The Investment Landscape
The residency programs driving this growth include the Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS), Smart City Scheme (SCS), and the Property Development Scheme (PDS).
These initiatives allow international buyers to secure residency through real estate and hospitality investments, often starting at a threshold of several hundred thousand dollars.
The Henley Residence Program Index is an annual benchmark reviewed by a panel of independent academics, economists, and immigration experts to determine the relative value of the world’s most reputable residence programs.
Source: Defi Media