Is crypto legal in Mauritius?

Yes, crypto is legal in Mauritius. The country regulates it through a dedicated law, the VAITOS Act, which requires any business providing virtual asset services in or from Mauritius to be licensed by the Financial Services Commission. As of November 2026, crypto remains outside the definition of legal tender, and buyers are not covered by any statutory compensation scheme.

What is the Mauritius Virtual Asset Act?

The VAITOS Act came into force on February 7, 2022, the FSC announced two days later. It created a framework for virtual assets and initial token offerings, with safeguards against money laundering and terrorist financing drafted in line with Financial Action Task Force standards.

The Act defines a virtual asset as a digital representation of value that can be traded or transferred and used for payment or investment. Digital versions of fiat money and securities are excluded. Existing operators were given three months to apply for authorisation, while digital asset custodians licensed under the Financial Services Act had 18 months. Breaches of the licensing rules can carry a fine of up to 5 million rupees and up to 10 years in prison.

How does the Mauritius FSC crypto licence work?

The FSC grants five classes of licence:

• Class M, virtual asset broker-dealer
• Class O, wallet services
• Class R, custodian
• Class I, advisory services
• Class S, marketplace or exchange

According to Bowmans, only companies incorporated in Mauritius can apply, and licensees must keep a physical office and local management. Token issuers register separately. Their offer period is capped at six months, and buyers can withdraw within 72 hours. Firms also follow the Financial Intelligence and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2002 and FSC guidance notes, in line with global anti-money-laundering rules. The FSC urges the public to use only licensed providers and registered issuers, which ties in with how to spot a fake crypto exchange.

Is cryptocurrency legal tender in Mauritius?

No. The FSC says virtual assets are not legal tender, and it recognises them as an investment class only for sophisticated and expert investors. Earlier, in a 2017 notice, the Bank of Mauritius said cryptocurrencies are not issued or guaranteed by the central bank and that it accepts no responsibility for losses. The difference between legal and legal tender is covered in is cryptocurrency legal.

How is crypto taxed in Mauritius?

There is no crypto-specific tax law. A 2024 CMS guide says Mauritius exempts capital gains, so gains on crypto held as an investment are generally not taxed, and capital losses cannot be deducted. Income from trading in the ordinary course of business, or from mining, can be taxed at the normal rates. CMS noted that the Mauritius Revenue Authority was expected to issue guidance. Other countries are compared in crypto regulation around the world.

Rules differ by country and change often. Check the tax authority or a qualified professional for your own situation.