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Health insurance in Mauritius for foreign expats

The white sandy beaches, clear seas and temperate climate of Mauritius have captured the hearts of many expats. So, if you’re thinking of relocating to this subtropical paradise for the long term, it’s important to understand how the healthcare system operates on the island. 

Mauritius healthcare is recognised for its quality internationally and is available to all its residents. The health system is split into two sectors: public and private. The island has a variety of different hospitals and clinics, with some specialising in specific medical issues and treatments. The public healthcare is completely free, available via dispensaries and hospitals throughout Mauritius, and is capable of handling most medical conditions and emergencies. However, there are long waiting times and more complex health issues will require a visit to a private clinic or (in rare cases) overseas medical evacuation. Specialised treatment is mainly given by private clinics on the island. If you need treatment overseas, you will most likely be treated in India, South Africa or Reunion Island. 

As levels of disposable income and the availability of affordable health insurance have increased, many expats and native Mauritians are taking out private health cover. Investing in the medical sector has also made the island a popular destination for medical tourism.

The following sections discuss the Mauritian healthcare system in greater detail and provide options for expats looking to relocate and integrate permanently.

The complete guide to healthcare in Mauritius

The national healthcare system in Mauritius has both public and private sectors, with the private sector being the more expensive option. It is known to be one of the most expensive healthcare systems in Africa and is highly regarded by Western standards. Around 73% of the population’s healthcare needs are managed for free by the public sector. The remaining 27% is dealt with by the private sector1. The private hospitals are much better equipped than the public ones, with long waiting times and poorer conditions according to those choosing private healthcare. If you need specialist treatment or a more advanced procedure, you will be treated in a private clinic (in rare cases, you may have to travel overseas to Reunion Island, India or South Africa). Private healthcare options are well-funded, and their quality attracts lots of medical tourism. Private and state ambulances are available but are of varying quality, cost and speed.

As an expat who is not yet a resident, you can expect to pay for your medical treatments, as you won’t be able to use the public medical services for free. Most expats take out medical insurance in Mauritius because the private clinics have higher standards of care. 

As a member of the Commonwealth of National and La Francophonie there are only two ways to access the Mauritian healthcare system cheaply or for free: by becoming a resident or as a French citizen who contributes to the CFE (the French health cover for citizens abroad). If the first two options do not apply, then, as an expat, you will need to pay for your healthcare, whether you use public or private health facilities. Most expats choose private medical insurance as their primary source of healthcare funding because it is the best way to access the superior facilities offered by the Mauritian private healthcare sector.

If you are in need of urgent medical assistance, dial 999 or 114 and ask for an ambulance. Private and state-owned ambulance services are readily available on these numbers but differ in terms of quality and promptness. It is recommended that in an emergency, you go directly to a private hospital if possible. If you have private insurance, contact the insurer immediately if you are referred to a private medical facility always make sure you have adequate repatriation cover. In rare cases, complex treatments might require medical evacuation to Reunion Island, India or South Africa. 

General Practitioners

When searching for a General Practitioner or doctor, the best place to start is with a recommendation from an expat community near you. It is also possible to visit your embassy’s website, as they often display a list of certified doctors by sector and specialism. 

Prescriptions and Pharmacies

There are regulated pharmacies throughout the island. They have clearly defined signage and almost all are open from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (except on Saturdays when they close at 2pm; they are closed on Sundays). Public hospitals may not have up-to-date medicines readily available, so it may cost you more to get your medicines from a private hospital if you don’t have insurance. 

You are allowed to bring ‘common medicines’ for personal use, but you must carry a copy of the prescription with you. Certain medicines like tranquillisers, hypnotics, narcotics and other strong painkillers will require prior authorisation from the Mauritian Health Ministry. 

As an expat, you will need to pay for your use of public or private health facilities in Mauritius (including for your local General Practitioner and dentistry services). Having health insurance in Mauritius also gives you access to the island’s private health facilities, which are largely preferred by expats and residents alike. 

Private health cover options for Mauritius

Long-term Cover

Need Cover for More than 11 Months?

Taking the necessary steps towards relocating to a new country can be difficult. But don’t worry, with a dedicated team, 24/7 support and a plan that meets your needs, you’ll be free to live your tropical island dream. Start your life in the sun today.


Virtual Doctor service

Virtual Doctor service from AXA. See a real doctor, from anywhere in the world.

With the Virtual Doctor service, you can have a medical consultation with a real doctor wherever you are in the world – from the comfort of your home, hotel or office. Better still, there are doctors on call and available 24/7.

Benefits of private health insurance in Mauritius

Known across the world for its sandy white beaches, breath-taking waterfalls and unique flora and fauna, Mauritius is truly a paradise. So, don’t let the worries of healthcare weigh you down. Choose an international  health plan that’s right for you.

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Virtual Doctor service

Finding a trusted doctor in a new place can be tough. With the Virtual Doctor service, you can talk to an experienced doctor in a range of languages.  Available by phone or video consultation, day and night2

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Claims and Compensation

With all the right information, around 80% of all eligible claims are paid within 48 hours. So, you can get back to enjoying your sandy beach retreat3

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Comprehensive Cover

Finding the right kind of healthcare can be time-consuming. We make it easy with our range of comprehensive cover plans, including dental and medical scans (CT, PET, MRI) as standard. 

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Evacuation and Repatriation

In the rare case that a complicated procedure cannot be done in Mauritius itself, our team is ready to arrange evacuation and repatriation services to the most suitable location for your needs.

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Mind Health Service

Trading your life at home for a life on a subtropical island can take some getting used to. But don’t give it a second thought, you can speak to qualified professionals through the Mind Health service4.

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Second Medical Opinion service

It isn’t always easy to find the level of care you need on the bustling island of Mauritius. So, for the moments when you need a little extra help, you can get an independent Second Medical Opinion from the experts.5 

Is medical insurance in Mauritius right for you?

Whether you’re relocating to Mauritius for your dream job in the sun, or your dream home, we’ve got a range of cover levels to suit your needs. Here are some examples of who we cover:

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Professionals

We can help you make the most of your professional opportunities by offering extensive coverage plans, including eye tests, prescriptions and a range of outpatient services as standard.

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Families

Perfect for families and budgets of any size, we can help you and your family with all aspects of the Mauritian healthcare system. For all stages of life, we offer coverage that includes maternity and pregnancy benefits, routine and non-routine dental check-ups, vaccinations, asthma treatments and prescription glasses. 

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Retirees

If you’re looking  to relocate to Mauritius to retire in the sunshine. We provide international healthcare cover which includes annual health check-ups, palliative care and disability compensation, giving you and your family peace of mind during your sunny retirement.

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All information in this article was correct at the time of publishing

‘Local insights have been provided by Oban International’s LIME (Local In-Market Expert) network’ - https://obaninternational.com/lime-network/  

1 Willingness to Pay to Improve Quality of Public Healthcare Services in Mauritius - PMC (nih.gov) 

2 The Virtual Doctor service is part of our Virtual Care from AXA service. Appointments are subject to availability. You do not need to pay or claim for a consultation but you will be charged for the cost of the initial phone call when using the call back service. You won’t be charged if you request a call back using the app or online portal. Telephone appointments are available 24/7/365 and call-backs are typically within 24 hours. Video appointments in English, Spanish and Mandarin are available between 08.00 and 00.00 UK time, Monday to Friday. Video appointments in German are available between 08:00 -20:00 CET, Monday to Friday

3 80.8% of eligible claims submitted online between January 2024 - July 2024, were paid within two days.

4 Mind Health psychologist appointments are available in English and Spanish between Monday and Friday, 09.00 - 17.30 (UK time). If you are calling from the UAE, appointments are available between Saturday to Thursday, 09.00 – 20.00, and Friday 09.00 – 16.00 (UAE time). The service, provided in partnership with Teladoc Health, provides access to six sessions with a psychologist, per mind health concern, per policy year. The Mind Health service is part of our Virtual Care from AXA service.

5 Our Second Medical Opinion service is here for you anytime you’re unsure over a diagnosis or recommended course of treatment. It’s part of our Virtual Care offering, along with the Virtual Doctor and Mind Health services, so you might have already seen it on your plan or on the Virtual Care from AXA <app> or <portal>. Provided in partnership with Teladoc Health, the service unlocks access to a network of over 50,000 world-leading specialists and connects you to a doctor who will review your case alongside an expert. They’ll work with you to help you understand your diagnosis, make sure you know your options and support you throughout any treatment, wherever you are in the world.