Mauritius uses the Mauritian Rupee (MUR) as its official currency. Cash is widely accepted, but electronic payments are increasingly common in urban and tourist areas.
- Official currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
- Payment methods: Cash, major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), and some mobile payments
- Contactless/mobile wallets: Contactless card payments are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops. Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted at select locations; Alipay is rare.
- ATMs: Widely available in cities, airports, and tourist areas. Most accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro). Transaction fees may apply (typically MUR 100–200 per withdrawal).
- Currency exchange: Available at banks, airports, and licensed exchange offices. Banks include Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB), State Bank of Mauritius (SBM), and HSBC Mauritius.
- Foreign currency restrictions: No restrictions on bringing foreign currency, but amounts over MUR 500,000 (approx. USD 11,000/EUR 10,000) must be declared to customs.
- Cash import/export limits: Up to MUR 500,000 (or equivalent) can be brought in or taken out without declaration. Exceeding this requires a customs declaration form.
- Transaction fees: Foreign card transactions may incur a surcharge (typically 1–3%).
- Common issues: Some small businesses accept only cash. Notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
- Regulations: The Bank of Mauritius regulates currency exchange and payment systems. Traveler advisories are available on official government websites.
