AcuFin Frequently Asked Questions: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you are an investor considering Mauritius as a base for international operations, a fund manager evaluating structuring options, or an entrepreneur exploring new markets, you likely have questions about how AcuFin can help. This guide addresses the queries we encounter most frequently, covering everything from our licensing and service scope to practical matters such as bank account opening and residency permits.

What does AcuFin do?

AcuFin Corporate Limited is a management company licensed by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Mauritius. We provide corporate, fiduciary and compliance services to international clients seeking to establish and maintain structures in Mauritius. Our core offerings include Global Business Corporation (GBL) incorporation, trust and foundation setup, fund administration, regulatory compliance, tax advisory and residency applications. We act as the resident management company for structures under our administration, ensuring that every entity meets its statutory obligations under Mauritian law.

What licences does AcuFin hold?

AcuFin holds a Management Licence and a Trustee Licence issued by the Financial Services Commission under the Financial Services Act 2007. The Management Licence authorises us to act as the management company for Global Business Corporations, providing registered office, company secretarial and compliance functions. The Trustee Licence permits us to act as a professional trustee and to administer trusts and foundations established under Mauritian law. These licences are subject to ongoing regulatory oversight by the FSC, including annual audits, reporting and inspections.

What types of clients does AcuFin serve?

We serve a broad range of international clients, including:

Whether you operate from Africa, Asia, Europe, or the Middle East, we tailor our approach to your specific needs and the regulatory environment of your home jurisdiction.

How long does it take to set up a GBL?

A standard GBL incorporation typically takes between two and four weeks from the date all required documentation is received. This timeframe includes preparation of the incorporation application, submission to the Registrar of Companies, issuance of the certificate of incorporation and the tax residence certificate. More complex structures, such as those requiring FSC pre-approval for regulated activities, may take longer. We provide a detailed timeline at the outset based on your specific requirements.

What is the minimum capital requirement?

For a standard GBL, there is no statutory minimum paid-up capital requirement. However, certain regulated activities carry specific capital thresholds. For instance, an Investment Dealer (Broker) requires minimum capital of USD 325,000, while an Investment Dealer (Full Service) requires USD 1,000,000. Fund structures may have their own capital adequacy requirements depending on the type of fund and regulatory classification. We will advise on the applicable thresholds for your intended activities during the structuring phase.

Can I open a bank account through AcuFin?

AcuFin assists clients with the bank account opening process as part of our management company services. We prepare the necessary supporting documentation and introduce clients to our partner banking institutions in Mauritius. The bank retains final discretion over account approval, and the process typically takes between four and eight weeks. Documentation requirements include certified copies of corporate documents, identification for all directors and beneficial owners, a detailed business plan, and source of funds evidence.

Does AcuFin handle compliance on an ongoing basis?

Yes. Ongoing compliance is a core part of our service offering. Once a structure is established under AcuFin's management, we ensure it remains in good standing with the FSC and other relevant authorities. This includes filing annual returns, preparing and submitting audited financial statements, maintaining statutory registers, monitoring economic substance requirements, and ensuring adherence to AML/CFT regulations. We also keep clients informed of any changes in legislation that may affect their structures.

What are AcuFin's fees?

Our fee structure is transparent and tailored to the complexity and nature of each engagement. Typical components include incorporation fees, annual management company fees, registered office fees, and charges for specific services such as compliance monitoring, board support and regulatory filings. We provide a detailed fee proposal before commencing any engagement, with no hidden charges. Contact us to receive a breakdown relevant to your requirements.

Can non-residents establish structures in Mauritius?

Yes. Mauritius is specifically designed to attract international business. Non-residents can incorporate GBLs, establish trusts and foundations, and set up fund structures without the need to relocate to Mauritius. The GBL structure requires a local registered office and a licensed management company, both of which AcuFin provides. At least one director must be resident in Mauritius, a role we can facilitate through our network. There is no requirement for shareholders or beneficial owners to be Mauritian residents.

What is the difference between a GBL and an Authorised Company?

A Global Business Corporation (GBL) is licensed by the FSC and can conduct regulated and non-regulated activities internationally. It benefits from Mauritius's double taxation treaties, can open bank accounts in Mauritius and is recognised as a tax-resident entity. An Authorised Company is registered with the Registrar of Companies but is not FSC-licensed; it is typically used for holding investments or conducting non-regulated activities and does not have access to treaty benefits. The choice between the two depends on your commercial objectives, tax planning needs and the nature of activities.