To enter Mauritius, you must have a valid passport. According to information published by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is no official minimum validity period beyond the duration of your stay, but it is generally recommended that your passport remain valid for at least six months after your return date. This buffer helps avoid being denied boarding by airlines, which sometimes apply their own stricter rules.

National identity cards are not accepted for entry into Mauritius, with one exception: French citizens residing in Réunion who travel to Mauritius for a tourist stay of more than two nights may enter with only their valid French national identity card. This measure, introduced in September 2022, has been extended until June 30, 2026. It applies to both adults and minors.

It is also necessary to ensure that there are enough blank pages in the passport to allow for the entry stamp. Passports reported lost or stolen, even if recovered, are permanently invalidated, and their presentation will result in automatic refusal of entry into the country.

Citizens of many countries are exempt from visa requirements for short-term tourist stays. This applies to French citizens, citizens of the European Union, British citizens, Swiss citizens, Canadians, Americans, Australians, New Zealanders, and others. Upon arrival, immigration officials will stamp their passport with an entry permit, granting them free tourist stay authorization.

The permitted stay may be up to three months, at the discretion of the immigration officer. It may be reduced in certain cases, particularly for homestays. This entry authorization does not permit the holder to engage in any commercial or professional activity. For internships, training, or any paid work, a visa application must be submitted to the Mauritian consular authorities before departure.

To find out which rules apply to your nationality, it is best to consult the section Formalities depending on nationality further down in this article, and then check directly on the Passport and Immigration Office website.

Extending your stay beyond 3 months

For tourist stays exceeding three months, an extension of up to six months within a 12-month period can be requested locally at the Passport and Immigration Office in Port Louis. The process is generally free of charge and requires presenting a copy of your passport, return ticket, a letter of accommodation or hotel reservation, and proof of sufficient funds.

Since the end of 2021, the old paper landing cards have been replaced by a single digital form: the Mauritius All-in-One Travel FormIt combines immigration, health, and customs formalities upon arrival into a single document. It is highly recommended fill it out before departure to save time at the airport and avoid having to complete an Immigration Disembarkation Card upon arrival.

The official, and only, website for filling out this form is:
https://safemauritius.govmu.org/

Beware of scams: This form is completely free. Many fraudulent websites offer to fill it out for you for a fee, sometimes with a very similar appearance to the official site. Never use any address other than the link above. The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) has publicly reiterated that no third-party paid services are endorsed by the Mauritian authorities.

Information to prepare before filling out the form

• Personal data: surname, first name, date of birth, nationality, passport number
• Contact information: email address and phone number
• Flight information: flight number, airline, date and time of arrival
• Address of accommodation in Mauritius (hotel, rental, guest house)
• Expected length of stay
• Possible health declarations

After the form is completed, a PDF document with a QR code will be generated. It is recommended that you print a copy and keep it with your travel documents. The QR code will be scanned upon arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in Plaisance. For families, children under 12 years of age can be included on a parent's declaration; otherwise, each traveler must have their own declaration.

Remember to also obtain your letter of accommodation (or letter of accommodation) from your accommodation provider, which may be requested upon arrival.

In addition to a passport and, if applicable, a visa, several other documents may be required by Mauritian immigration authorities. These checks are not always systematic, but may be carried out, particularly during peak season or if the traveler's situation raises questions.

Return or onward ticket

A return or onward ticket to another country is required. This requirement applies to all non-resident travelers in Mauritius. Only holders of a residence permit are exempt. Screenshots or printed versions of the e-ticket are generally accepted.

Proof of accommodation

Proof of accommodation (letter from the host, hotel reservation, rental voucher) may be required. For a stay with a local resident, it is advisable to have a letter of accommodation signed by the person hosting the traveler, along with a copy of their identity document.

Financial resources

According to official documents (France Diplomatie), proof of sufficient funds—estimated at approximately USD 100 per day of stay—may be requested upon entry. In practice, this check appears to be relatively infrequent for travelers from visa-exempt countries, but it is advisable to be able to demonstrate sufficient funds should the request be made. A valid international bank card is generally sufficient.

Traveling with minor children

Minor children must have their own individual passport, regardless of age. Registration on a parent's passport has not been accepted for international travel for several years.

For French minors travelling to Mauritius without To be accompanied by a person with parental authority, an authorization to leave the country (AST) has been mandatory since January 15, 2017. Three documents are then required:

• The minor's individual passport
• The CERFA form for authorization to leave the territory (available on service-public.fr) signed by one of the parents with parental authority
• A double-sided photocopy of the identity document (national identity card or passport) of the signing parent

For minors travelling with only one parent whose name they do not bear, a copy of the family record book or an extract of birth certificate can avoid misunderstandings during checks.

The rules for exiting the country vary depending on the country of origin. Non-French travelers should check the applicable regulations with the authorities in their country of residence.

For families preparing for their first trip with a baby or young child, specific advice (health, equipment, logistics, food) is detailed in the dedicated article: going on holiday to Mauritius with a baby.

Mauritian customs regulations are broadly comparable to those in many international destinations. It is useful to be aware of them to avoid problems at the airport.

Duty-free products

• Tobacco: up to 250 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco
• Alcohol: up to 1 liter of spirits and 2 liters of wine or beer
• Personal belongings in reasonable quantities

Currencies

Any sum exceeding 500,000 Mauritian rupees (approximately €10,000) or its equivalent in foreign currency must be declared upon entry to and exit from the country. No restrictions are imposed on the import or export of foreign currency, provided the declaration is made.

Prohibited or regulated products

• Fruits, plants, seeds and plant products (subject to strict phytosanitary restrictions)
• Drugs and narcotics (very heavy penalties for offenses)
• Weapons and ammunition (unless prior authorization)
• Food products of animal origin (restrictions vary)

Animal products: beware of foot-and-mouth disease

Following outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease in Mauritius and Rodrigues, the export of certain animal products (meat, dairy) from Mauritius to France or the European Union is strictly prohibited. Violators face confiscation of their goods and potentially significant criminal penalties. It is advisable to check with the airport before your return journey.

The importation of domestic animals is also strictly regulated: a veterinary certificate and an import license are required, otherwise the animals will be returned at the owner's expense.

To learn more about customs regulations, see our article: What you can (or can't) bring on holiday to Mauritius – A complete guide

Since the October 1, 2025a tourist tax called Tourist Fee is collected in Mauritius, as part of the 2025-2026 Budget. Its amount is 3 euros per person per nightIt concerns all travelers aged Ages 12 and up staying in registered tourist accommodation: hotels, guest houses, tourist residences, estates and seasonal rentals.

The tax is collected directly by the accommodation provider, who then remits it to the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA). It usually appears as a separate line item on the bill. No specific administrative steps are required from the traveler.

Who is exempt?

• Children under 12 years old
• Mauritian nationals, including those residing abroad
• Stays in Rodrigues are not currently covered by the scheme.

For a couple staying two weeks in Mauritius, the tax represents an additional cost of approximately €84 for the entire stay. A full article is dedicated to this new charge for more details: new tourist tax in Mauritius.

Vaccinations

No vaccinations are required to enter Mauritius, with one exception: travellers from a country where yellow fever is endemic must present a valid vaccination certificate.

The recommended vaccines for preventative use are:

• Usual vaccine update (diphtheria, tetanus, polio, dick, hepatitis B)
• Hepatitis A
• Typhoid for prolonged stays or in precarious hygiene conditions

Health requirements may change. It is advisable to check the latest information on the website of the [relevant authority].French Embassy in Mauritius or that of the Mauritian government before departure.

Medical infrastructure

Mauritian medical infrastructure is generally adequate, particularly in the private sector, but costs can be high for foreigners. Appropriate travel insurance is strongly recommended (see next section).

To find a healthcare professional or hospital: Pharmacies – Hospitals – Clinics – Doctors in Mauritius and other healthcare professionals
You can also consult the Health tab in the menu for more information.

No insurance is officially required to enter Mauritius, but it is highly recommended. Medical expenses and, especially, potential medical repatriation from the Indian Ocean can amount to very significant sums (several tens of thousands of euros if covered individually).

Recommended Cover

• Medical costs abroad
• Health repatriation
• Liability
• Trip cancellation

Points to consider

• Check the coverage for sports activities (diving, hiking, water sports, etc.)
• Ensure that the reimbursement ceilings are sufficient
• Keep a copy of the contract and emergency numbers readily available
• Check the warranty exclusions, especially in the event of a declared cyclone.

The following rules are provided for guidance only. For verification, it is advisable to consult the website of the Passport and Immigration Office or to contact the relevant Mauritian embassy or consulate.

European Union

Nationals of EU member countries would benefit from the same conditions as the French: valid passport and visa exemption for tourist stays of up to 3 months.

United Kingdom and Switzerland

Passport valid for the duration of the stay and visa exemption for tourist stays of up to 3 months.

United States and Canada

Passport valid for the duration of the stay, visa exemption for tourist stays up to 3 months, return or onward ticket required.

Australia and New Zealand

Passport valid for the duration of the stay and visa exemption for tourist stays of up to 3 months.

Brazil, Russia, South Africa

Passport valid for the duration of the stay and visa exemption for tourist stays up to 3 months according to available information.

India

Passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry and visa exemption for tourist stays of up to 3 months.

China

Passport must be valid for at least six months after the entry date. A visa is required before departure, except for certain categories of visitors or during temporary exemption periods. It is advisable to check requirements before purchasing any tickets.

Other countries

For nationals of other countries, it is recommended to:

• Consult the official Mauritian immigration website: passport.govmu.org
• Contact the Mauritian embassy or consulate in your country of residence
• Check if an advance visa application is required, and within what timeframe to submit it.

Climate and cyclone season

The cyclone season runs from November to April. It is wise to monitor forecasts before and during your trip. To choose the best time to travel based on the climate, see the dedicated article: the weather in Mauritius.

Driving a car

• Driving on the left, a detail to be aware of as soon as you leave the airport
• A national driving licence is generally accepted for tourist stays.
• An international driving permit can simplify the process with some car rental companies.
• Local speed limits must be observed; radar checks are frequent.

Telecommunications

• Check your phone's compatibility with local networks
• It is possible to buy a local SIM card at the airport or in specialist shops: see the Complete guide to tourist SIM cards in Mauritius
• The 4G network covers most of the territory; 5G is currently being deployed.

Payment methods

• The international bank card is widely accepted in tourist hotels and shops
• ATMs are available in all cities and tourist areas.
• Local currency is the Mauritian Roupie (wall)
• Currency exchange is possible at the airport, in banks and exchange bureaus.
• It can be helpful to inform your bank of your trip to avoid having your card blocked for use abroad.

Ariadne's thread (for the French)

This free platform from the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (formerly "Ariane") allows users to receive alerts in the event of a crisis (cyclone, public disorder) and to be more easily contacted by the French authorities. Register at [website address]. pastel.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fildariane.

Register of French citizens living outside France

Recommended for stays of more than 6 months. Registration with the French consulate in Mauritius.

Copies of documents

Make photocopies (and digital versions stored in a secure cloud) of important documents: passport, plane tickets, reservations, insurance certificate. Keep them separate from the originals.

Emergency numbers in Mauritius

• Police: 999 or 112
• SAMU: 114
• Firefighters: 115
• Tourist Information Center: +230 210 1545

French Embassy in Mauritius

• Address: 14 rue Saint Georges, Port-Louis
• Telephone: +230 202 01 00
• Website: mu.diplomatie.gouv.fr

A new embassy, inaugurated in November 2025, is due to open its doors in the summer of 2026.

Embassy of Mauritius in France

• Address: 127 rue de Tocqueville, 75017 Paris
• Telephone: +33 1 42 27 30 19
• Visa service: open Monday to Friday, from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm
• Visa email: visa@amb-maurice.fr

Passport and Immigration Office (Port Louis)

• Sterling House, 11-12 Lislet Geoffroy Street, Port-Louis
• Telephone: +230 260 20 73
• Official website: passport.govmu.org

Useful links

• Mauritius Tourism Authority
• France Diplomacy — travel advice
• World Health Organization

You can also find information in our article: Emergency numbers to know, What to do in case of an emergency in Mauritius: a complete guide

Do you need a visa to go to Mauritius from France, Belgium or Switzerland?

No. French, Belgian, and Swiss citizens are exempt from visa requirements for tourist stays of less than 3 months. An entry stamp is placed in the passport upon arrival.

Is the Mauritius All-in-One Travel Form mandatory?

It is not formally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. Without it, foreign travelers must fill out a paper immigration form upon arrival, which lengthens the customs process. It can be completed exclusively and free of charge on the official website. safemauritius.govmu.org.

What is the exact amount of the new tourist tax?

The Tourist Fee is €3 per person per night, for all travellers aged 12 and over, since 1 October 2025. Children under 12 are exempt, as are stays in Rodrigues.

How long does the passport need to be valid for?

Officially, it should cover the entire duration of the stay. In practice, it is recommended that it remain valid for at least 6 months after the return date to avoid being denied boarding by the airline.

Can people from Réunion travel to Mauritius with their identity card?

Yes, the measure is in effect until June 30, 2026 for French citizens residing in Réunion, for tourist stays exceeding two nights. This exemption applies to both adults and minors.

What should you do if a child is travelling without their parents?

For French minors, an authorization to leave the country (CERFA form) signed by a parent with parental authority is mandatory, along with a copy of their identity document. The child must also have their own individual passport.

Can I extend my stay beyond 3 months?

Yes, an extension of up to 6 months within a 12-month period can be requested in Port-Louis, at the Passport and Immigration Office, upon presentation of supporting documents (passport, return ticket, letter of accommodation, financial resources).

Do we have to declare cash upon arrival?

Only if the sum exceeds 500,000 Mauritian rupees, or approximately €10,000. Below this threshold, no declaration is required.

Is travel insurance mandatory?

No insurance is officially required to enter Mauritius, but it is highly recommended. Medical expenses and, especially, potential repatriation costs can be very high.

Where can I find the most up-to-date information?

The two reference sources are the website France Diplomacy for the French position, and the Passport and Immigration Office For Mauritian regulations, checking in the days leading up to departure is the best way to ensure that the rules have not changed.