Key considerations at a glance
Set Up a Mauritius AC Low-Cost Offshore Company
Mauritius AC vs. GBC Comparison
| Factor | Authorized Company (AC) | Global Business Company (GBC) |
|---|---|---|
| Target Market | Conducted strictly outside Mauritius | International operations with regional substance |
| Tax Rate | 0% tax on foreign-sourced income | 3% effective rate (via 80% partial exemption) |
| Tax Treaty Access | No access to DTAAs | Full access to 40+ DTAA treaty networks |
| Resident Directors | Not mandatory (managed via registered agent) | Mandatory (at least 2 resident directors) |
| Audit Requirement | Filing of financial summary with FSC | Audited financial statements mandatory |
Mauritius AC vs GBC – Key Differences Explained
What is an Authorized Company (AC)?
An Authorized Company is designed specifically for non-residents seeking a cost-effective corporate vehicle to manage international investments, consulting, and cross-border trade without maintaining heavy local physical substance.
Core AC requirements
- Must be managed and controlled outside Mauritius.
- Must appoint a licensed Management Company in Mauritius as its registered agent.
- Exempt from local corporate tax on foreign-sourced income.
- Streamlined compliance and low maintenance overhead.
What is a Global Business Company (GBC)?
A Global Business Company is a tax-resident corporation licensed by the Financial Services Commission (FSC). It is the ideal structure for private equity funds, holding portfolios, regional headquarters, and complex global structuring requiring treaty protection.
Core GBC requirements
- Must maintain at least two resident directors in Mauritius.
- Must satisfy economic substance tests locally (core income-generating activities).
- Subject to a 15% statutory tax rate with potential 80% partial exemption (3% effective rate).
- Mandatory annual audit and financial filing with the FSC.
Mauritius Tax Framework & Treaties
Mauritius provides an OECD-compliant, white-listed framework with zero capital gains tax and no withholding tax on dividends distributed to non-residents.
- 0% Tax: Authorized Companies on foreign-sourced income.
- 3% Effective Tax: GBC structures utilizing the 80% partial exemption regime.
- DTAA Access: Over 40 active tax treaties facilitating optimized cross-border cash flows.
Registration Workflow
Authorized Company Setup Steps
Name Reservation
Check availability and reserve company name via CBRD online portal.
KYC & Engagement
Partner with a licensed Management Company and submit certified due diligence.
Incorporation & License
File incorporation documents and obtain the AC certificate from the FSC.
Residency & Relocation Options
Entrepreneurs establishing companies in Mauritius can secure legal residency through the **Occupation Permit (OP)** scheme for investors, professionals, or self-employed individuals, or via qualifying property investments.
Which structure should you choose?
For low-cost asset holding & non-resident trading
- Business conducted strictly outside Mauritius
- Minimal administrative overhead
- Zero tax on foreign-sourced income
For institutional structuring & treaty access
- Access to Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements
- Enhanced institutional banking credibility
- Comprehensive substance for funds and holdings
Frequently asked questions
Shiraz Waheed, MCSI, ACMA, CGMA
Founder & CEO of SetupHero, Shiraz is an experienced finance and business advisory professional with a strong background in corporate structuring, accounting, and international business setup. He helps entrepreneurs and companies establish and grow their businesses across 25+ countries, providing practical guidance on company formation, compliance, banking, and ongoing corporate services. His experience combines global professional standards with hands-on expertise in helping businesses expand internationally.