How to obtain a bank loan: differences between France and Mauritius

4 June 2025

Getting a Bank Loan: France vs Mauritius

Getting a bank loan is a key step in financing a real estate or personal project, whether in France or in Mauritius. However, the conditions, eligibility criteria, and procedures differ significantly between these two countries. Here is a detailed comparison of the main differences.

Eligibility Conditions and Age Criteria

  • France: Loans granted up to age 70, with repayment terms of up to 25 years or more.
  • Mauritius: Age limit often set at 65, with repayment terms limited to 15 years for non-residents (up to 30 years for residents).

Down Payment and Loan Amount

  • France: Recommended down payment between 10% and 20%; financing up to 80–90% of the property value.
  • Mauritius: Down payment required between 20% and 30%, minimum 30% for non-residents; financing up to 70% of the property value.

Loan Term and Debt Ratio

  • France: Term up to 25 or 30 years; recommended debt ratio: 33%.
  • Mauritius: Often shorter term (15 years for non-residents); debt ratio limited to 40% for incomes below MUR 200,000.

Required Documents and Guarantees

  • France: Payslips, tax returns, bank statements, guarantees (mortgage or surety).
  • Mauritius: Full application file, mandatory death and disability insurance, guarantee/mortgage required for more than 50% of the loan, opening a local bank account is mandatory.

Interest Rates and Currencies

  • France: Generally low fixed rates (favorable economic context).
  • Mauritius: Fixed or variable rates, often indexed to Euribor for foreigners (~4%), or around 7% for residents. Loans are issued in the borrower’s currency.

Additional Fees and Insurance

  • France: Application fees, notary fees, and borrower’s insurance to be expected.
  • Mauritius: Notary fees, application fees, government taxes, and mandatory insurance.

Flexibility and Regulatory Framework

  • France: Regulated and protective framework (usury rate limits, right of withdrawal, etc.).
  • Mauritius: Less flexibility for non-residents; conditions vary from one bank to another.

Conclusion

Obtaining a bank loan in Mauritius has notable specificities compared to France: a higher required down payment, shorter repayment terms for non-residents, and stricter conditions.

In France, the conditions are generally more flexible, with longer loan terms and a more protective regulatory framework.

To maximize your chances of securing a loan in either country, it is essential to prepare your application carefully, compare offers, and understand the specific requirements of each location.