French crisis: why more and more French people are considering moving abroad

sandracolas
Oct 15, 2025
2 min read

Political tensions, recurring social movements and fiscal pressures have been fuelling a sense of weariness for several years. The events of 2024 and 2025 (persistent inflation, political instability, strikes, housing crisis) have led many to consider their future outside France.

According to an OpinionWay poll for Les Échos (June 2025), 31% of French people are considering moving abroad. This figure rises sharply among executives and entrepreneurs, who are often weary of tax and administrative pressures that they perceive as out of touch with economic reality.

In this context, Mauritius — located in the Indian Ocean, a stable and open economy that welcomes foreign investment — is attracting the attention of an increasing number of people seeking freedom, opportunity, and a high quality of life.

France vs Mauritius

Factor	France	Mauritius
Taxation	Progressive taxation, a complex taxation system	Single tax rate of 15%, no tax on property capital gains or wealth
Political Climate	Unstable, anxiety-inducing	Stability for several decades, providing security
Real Estate	Saturated market, declining rental yields in the majority of the town	High-end real estate opportunities, attractive rental returns
Lifestyle	Urban density, stress, high cost of living	Peaceful environment, natural beauty, premium services
Property Access	Open but taxed (e.g. capital gains, succession)	Structured schemes for foreigners (PDS, RES, Smart City, G+2), minimum USD 375,000
Economic Momentum	Mature, slower growth	Emerging, dynamic, with real estate incentives

Points to consider: Mauritius is not ‘' flawless‘'

Geographical distance: 11-hour flight, logistics to be anticipated.
Restricted access to property for foreigners: purchase only possible through state-approved programmes.
High import costs: for certain luxury goods and equipment.
The property market requires careful analysis: not all projects are equal, and serious developers are in the minority.
Property: a secure, regulated sector with potential

Mauritius has established a clear legal framework for foreign investment:

Access to Mauritian residency through the purchase of real estate starting at USD 375,000
Government-approved programmes (PDS, IRS, RES, Smart Cities)
Rental yields between 4% and 6% on well-located properties (west, north)
Capital gains are not taxed on resale

Conclusion: Mauritius, a destination to be seriously considered

In a context where France is losing its fiscal and social appeal, Mauritius offers a serious, secure, high-end alternative for those who want to combine freedom, performance and quality of life.

A project to settle or invest in Mauritius cannot be improvised. It must be built with expertise, confidence and support.

Why not discuss it together?

Sandra Colas Sandra Colas Real Estate +230 5474 0302 scolas@sandracolas.com