Compulsory and recommended insurances for expats in Mauritius

What are the mandatory insurances in Mauritius, and which ones should you not overlook? How do you choose the right insurer?

From major international companies to local players such as City Brokers, MUA and Sicom, there are many insurers in Mauritius. The regulatory authorities have established measures to ensure the financial soundness and stability of the insurance sector, thereby protecting the interests of policyholders.

Direct insurers, brokers, agents: how to choose?

All are committed to providing impartial advice and recommending products tailored to the specific needs of each individual.

Direct insurers offer their own range of products directly to customers, including health, life, and various other insurance policies. This direct interaction allows you to customise and negotiate your policies directly with the insurer.

Insurance agents represent one insurance company exclusively. Therefore, they will offer you products from that specific insurer, with extensive knowledge of those offerings.

Insurance brokers, on the other hand, are not affiliated to an insurance company, but act as an intermediary between you and the insurer. For a commission, they offer you several quotations tailored to your needs and negotiate the best insurance policies on your behalf.

Mandatory insurance in Mauritius

Vehicle insurance

Third-party vehicle insurance is compulsory in Mauritius. Other options exist for your peace of mind on Mauritian roads: protection of the car, driver, passengers, etc.

Boat insurance

Boat insurance covers your equipment and vessel against potential damage on water, on land or during transport. Mauritian law requires boat owners to have third-party liability insurance, protecting you in the event of accidental damage caused to third parties, including passengers.

Recommended insurance in Mauritius

Home insurance

Home insurance is not required by law but is strongly recommended in Mauritius. It’s important to have coverage for third-party liabilities and domestic staff. Tenants are often required to include home insurance as part of the lease agreement.

Health Insurance

Public hospitals and dispensaries provide free care to residents, but the lack of resources, staff and equipment leads many Mauritians and expatriates to turn to private healthcare services. Consequently, having comprehensive health insurance is essential to cover the expenses of private consultations and treatments.

For those on short stays, such as on a premium or tourist visa, travel insurance from your regular provider will cover you for sudden illness or accidents, including repatriation to your home country.

If you are a Mauritian resident, you can opt for local or international health insurance. Local insurance policies cover your medical expenses within Mauritius or abroad if the required treatments are not available locally. International or expatriate health insurance generally offers broader coverage and includes optional medical repatriation and coverage during holidays in your home country, but it typically comes at a higher cost.

If you are a European or Swiss national living in Mauritius, you can take out insurance with the Caisse des Français à l’Étranger (CFE), the equivalent of French Social Security for expats. Please note that the CFE reimburses your medical expenses at French rates. If the costs in Mauritius are higher, you will have to pay the difference. To ensure full coverage, you might consider a supplementary plan through a local or international insurer.

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Before opting for any insurance, we advise comparing several quotes and checking the waiting periods, coverage limits, and the insurer’s partners. Various other insurances exist to protect you in all situations: travel insurance, life insurance, and even golf insurance. Visit your chosen insurer to have peace of mind!