Information
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A valid passport or travelling document is required as the return ticket. A visitor’s visa is normally granted for a period of two weeks to one month upon arrival, to almost all holders of a valid passport, with one or two exceptions. It can be renewed for a further period upon request. Visas may be obtained from Mauritian Embassies and High Commissions.
Visas are required by all except nationals of Commonwealth countries, EU countries, Japan, Scandinavia, and the USA. All visitors need to have an outward bound ticket and proof of sufficient funds to support their stay. Passports are required by all and must have at least 6 months to the expiry date
Passport and Immigration Office:
Port Louis - Tel: 210 9312, Fax: 212 2398.
Vaccination: Mauritius is fairly unique for a tropical country in that it is free of such diseases as malaria, yellow fever and cholera. This is because of the very effective efforts of the government to combat these diseases. For most people therefore, vaccinations, etc. before departure are not necessary. If in doubt please check with your local Mauritian embassy before departure.
There is no risk of chikungunia in Mauritius
An international vaccination certificate against yellow fever is needed if arriving from an infected area.
Health Care: The medical standard on Mauritius is well advanced and the hospitals are free of charge. This applies to visitors as well. There are now additionally many private clinics in the island and they offer a more attractive environment plus frequently some of the latest medical equipment available. They are however not free and you would be well advised to check that your health insurance is valid for Mauritius before you come.
The local water is relatively clean and the Mauritians drink it. You need therefore have no fear if you use it for cleaning your teeth etc. However, it is better you boil the water before drinking it or buy bottled water which is freely available in the local shops.
CUSTOMS
Passengers if 16 years of age and over are allowed the following duty-free items: 250g of tobacco (cigars and cigarettes); 2 litres of wine, ale or beer, 1 litre of spirits and about 25cl litre of Eau de Toilette and a quantity of perfume not exceeding 10cl.
Plants and seeds, fresh fruits and flowers must be declared to
Customs upon arrival and are subject to examination.
An Import Permit must be obtained from the Minister of Agriculture prior to their introduction.
PETS
Introduction of dogs and cats are not recommended as they have to undergo 6 months quarantine.
Firearms must be declared upon arrival.
Port Louis - Tel: 240 9702, Fax: 240 0434.
Agricultural Services: Head Office, Reduit, Tel: 454 1091
DUTY FREE PROCEEDURES
Duty-free goods can be bought at accredited shops and will be delivered to the customs desk at the airport or the Chamber of Industry and Commerce’s desk.
Visitors returning home can claim a VAT refund at the airport by showing a receipt and goods bought
AIRPORT TAX & FACILITIES
All passengers over 12 years of age embarking at SSR International Airport (Plaisance) are required to pay an airport service tax of ± Rs 500 (payable on purchase of tickets). SSR International Airport is located on the southeast coast, 45 kilometres from Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius.
There are excellent duty free shops and facilities also include banks, a post office, a bar and a restaurant.
Credit Cards
Credit cards (American Express, Diners, MasterCard and Visa, etc) are generally accepted by banks, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and tourist shops.
Security
Tourism police ensures security in tourist zones. An anti-terrorist law has also been proclaimed. It is advised to:
- Keep an eye on all personal belongings at all times.
- Be careful when withdrawing money from a cash point.
- Avoid leaving any valuables inside an unoccupied vehicle.
- Use recognised operators and suppliers for excursions and shopping trips.
- Keep passports, travel documents, valuables and large sums of money in the safe of your room.
- Rent boats with adequate security standards for sea excursions.
Special care is advised concerning valuables, documents and personal belongings.
Drug trafficking is illegal and carries very heavy penalties.