Entry Requirements and Visas
Citizens of many countries, including Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, New Zealand, and most other OECD countries do not need a visa in advance to enter Mauritius. Check with the Passport and Immigration Office website to confirm your country's status.
If you do require a visa, you may be able to apply through a British embassy, high commission, or consulate in your home country, even if Mauritius has no diplomatic post there. British diplomatic posts charge GBP50 to process a Mauritius visa application, with an additional GBP70 possible if the Mauritian authorities need to review your application. Additional fees may apply if Mauritius corresponds with you directly.
On arrival, you will be required to provide a form called "Mauritius All in One," along with your accommodation and return ticket details to the immigration service. If you are arriving from a country where malaria is endemic, you may receive a visit from the government health service and be required to provide a blood sample for malaria screening.
Money, Currency, and Typical Costs
The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). While specific cost information is limited, SIM cards for mobile phones start from around 700 MUR per month through major telecommunications companies.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Mauritius is considered a much safer destination for visitors than most other places, with a falling crime rate. Tourism Police and Coast Guards patrol regularly in tourist areas, and most cities, beaches, and major attractions have camera surveillance. Remain vigilant and watch for suspicious behavior.
Emergency contact numbers:
- Police: 999 or 112
- Tourism Police: +230 213 1740 or +230 210 3894
- Coast Guards: +230 280 8317 or +230 212 2747
- Fire: 115 or 995
- SAMU Ambulance: 114
- Anti-Drug Unit: +230 208 1212
- Traffic Police: +230 211 8434 or +230 211 8478
- Environment Police: +230 210 5151 or +230 210 5252
- National Directory: 150
Health Considerations
Mauritius is a risk area for dengue fever and Chikungunya, both transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccine for dengue, so protection against mosquito bites is essential. Dengue re-emerged in 2019 after several dengue-free years. Chikungunya is caused by the Aedes albopictus mosquito, which is more active during the daytime and more prevalent during high season. Symptoms of Chikungunya include swollen joints and rashes that can last from one week to several months.
Hepatitis A vaccination is generally recommended for travel to this region. The tap water is generally potable and safe for most people, though visitors unfamiliar with local water may prefer bottled water.
Beach safety requires attention: many beaches are infested with sea urchins at certain times of year, and broken glass can be found on some beaches. Wear plastic or wet shoes when entering the water. Large hotels typically maintain clean swimming areas, but wearing protective footwear is still advisable.
Reef fish in Mauritius can contain a neurotoxin. Avoid eating peanuts or drinking alcohol if you consume reef fish such as sea bass, snapper, mullet, or grouper. Do not eat the intestines or testes of fish, where toxin concentrations are highest. Symptoms of poisoning include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes numbness in the limbs.
Staying Connected
Mauritius has several telecommunications companies, with Emtel and My.t being the main providers. Both sell SIM cards and E-SIM options at the airport starting from 700 MUR per month. A passport is required to purchase a SIM card.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Mauritius is a diverse country with a rich multicultural heritage. The population includes Indo-Mauritians, Creoles, Sino-Mauritians, and Franco-Mauritians, with Hinduism being the most practiced religion in the country. This diversity is reflected in local customs, festivals, and daily life. Visitors should be respectful of religious sites and cultural practices, particularly around temples and places of worship. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and always ask permission before photographing religious ceremonies or sacred spaces. General courtesy and politeness are highly valued in Mauritian society.