A Mauritius Foundation offers a distinct legal personality with a governance framework suited to family assets, succession planning and charitable or non-charitable objectives. It may appeal particularly to clients familiar with civil-law structures.
Governed by the Foundations Act 2012. A registered foundation owns property in its own name and operates under a charter and any articles, through a foundation council. It can pursue lawful charitable or private purposes and provide benefits to designated persons or classes.
Founder and foundation charter; registration with the Registrar and certificate of registration; registered office in Mauritius; council to administer property and carry out objects; relevant resident officer or secretary arrangements under applicable legislation; beneficial ownership and AML/CFT verification; proper accounting, records and annual compliance.
Separate legal personality; clear governance rules; potential continuity beyond the founder’s lifetime; flexibility in identifying beneficiaries and purposes; useful for philanthropy, family ownership and structured wealth succession.
A foundation is not automatically tax exempt. Mauritius and foreign tax consequences depend on its residence, activities, income and beneficiaries. Confidentiality is subject to statutory and regulatory disclosure. Foundation registration and council requirements must be checked against the current consolidated legislation.
International families, philanthropic founders, private wealth owners and clients preferring a legal entity rather than a traditional trust.