Seychelles offers a fast, affordable, and flexible licensing option for forex brokers. With low capital requirements, simplified compliance, and global client access, it’s an ideal choice for startups and growing brokerages.
Mauritius License
Mauritius has become one of the most reputable and business-friendly offshore jurisdictions for forex brokers and securities dealers. Regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC), Mauritius offers a balanced ecosystem with regulatory credibility, flexible business setup, and global banking access.
Investment Dealer License – Full Service
For forex brokers targeting global clientele with a need for stronger regulatory standing compared to purely offshore jurisdictions (e.g., Seychelles or St. Vincent), Mauritius is the sweet spot.
The FSC Investment Dealer License – Full Service (excluding underwriting) is the most suitable for forex and CFD brokerages. It permits firms to execute orders, hold client funds, provide trading platforms, and operate across borders.
At SetupFX, we assist you in:
Incorporating your Mauritius Global Business Company (GBC)
Preparing licensing documentation, financials, and compliance manuals
Setting up local presence, banking, and technology infrastructure
Our turnkey solutions enable you to go live in as little as 12 to 16 weeks.
Advantages of a Mauritius Forex License
✅ Reputable & Recognized Regulator
The Mauritius FSC is respected globally and not classified as a tax haven by major international bodies.
✅ Global Business License (GBC)
Mauritius GBC structure supports tax residency, substance, and access to double taxation treaties (DTAs) with over 40 countries.
✅ Permits Full Forex Brokerage Activities
• Offer margin trading in Forex and CFDs
• Hold client funds in segregated accounts
• Onboard international clients
• Use white-label platforms (MT5, cTrader, etc.)
✅ Moderate Capital Requirements
The minimum capital is USD 35,000–USD 50,000 for most setups. This is affordable compared to Tier-1 jurisdictions, yet offers more credibility than offshore setups.
✅ Favorable Tax Environment
GBCs are taxed at an effective corporate rate of 3% (after relief and deductions), with access to tax treaties and no capital gains tax.
✅ Banking & PSP Access
Mauritius GBCs enjoy easier access to SWIFT/IBAN-compatible bank accounts, EMIs, and payment gateways—crucial for forex operations.
✅ Compliance and Flexibility
The FSC enforces AML/CFT compliance but provides reasonable timelines, clear communication, and transparency.
Requirements for Obtaining a Mauritius Forex License
To qualify for a Securities Dealer License in Seychelles, you must fulfill the following:
Corporate Structure
• Incorporation of a Global Business Company (GBC1) under the Companies Act
• At least two directors, who must be residents of Mauritius
• Appoint a licensed management company in Mauritius
• Registered office in Mauritius
Minimum Capitalization
• USD 35,000 to USD 50,000 paid-up capital for Investment Dealer – Full Service
• Must be deposited into a Mauritius corporate account before license is granted
Personnel & Substance
• Compliance Officer & MLRO (can be provided by local partners)
• Maintain a physical office, local staff (for substance)
• Local board meetings and governance compliance
Documentation & Manuals
• Detailed business plan and projected financials (3 years)
• AML/KYC/Compliance policies aligned with FATF standards
• Professional indemnity insurance (recommended)
• Due diligence documents: passports, CVs, proof of address, bank references for directors and shareholders
Audit and Filing Requirements
• Annual audits by a Mauritius-licensed auditor
• Tax filings, license renewals, and FSC reporting
Licensing Process with SetupFX
We offer a guided and structured approach to licensing, ensuring you meet all FSC and GBC requirements through our local legal and compliance network.
1. Initial Consultation
• Business analysis and structuring advice
• Selection of appropriate Investment Dealer License class
2. Company Incorporation
• Name reservation, MOA drafting, and GBC registration
• Appointment of local directors, management company, and corporate secretary
3. Bank Account & Capital Deposit
• Assistance with opening Mauritius bank account
• Deposit minimum capital (USD 35k–50k)
4. Document Preparation
• Business plan, compliance manual, AML policy, financial projections
• Due diligence collection and notarization
5. FSC Application Filing
• Submission of full application to the Mauritius FSC
• Responding to regulator queries and revisions
6. Approval & License Granting
• Upon FSC approval, license is issued
• Business is now authorized to operate as an Investment Dealer
7. Post-Licensing Setup
• Setup of tech infrastructure (trading platform, CRM, back office)
• HR support for hiring local staff (if required)
• Ongoing compliance support, audit assistance, and legal updates
Why Choose SetupFX for Mauritius Licensing?
Founded in 2010, SetupFX delivers seamless financial solutions for businesses. Our team of experts is committed to transparency, integrity, and excellence.
- 01 Deep expertise in forex regulatory setups
- 02 Ready-made templates for FSC-compliant documents
- 03 Network of approved management companies, banks, and legal experts
- 04 Transparent pricing and realistic timelines
- 05 Post-licensing support: tech, CRM, payments, staffing, and audits
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Securing a Mauritius forex license typically takes around 3 months. However, if the regulatory authority requests additional documentation or clarification during the review process, the timeline may be extended.
Launching a forex business in Mauritius generally costs between $25,000 and $30,000. This covers company registration, hiring of local personnel, and the licensing process.
Yes, foreign entities are allowed to apply, provided they establish a local office in Mauritius and comply with all FSC regulations.
Mauritius offers a compelling licensing environment due to its strong regulatory reputation, favorable tax regime, and balanced approach to regulation and accessibility. These factors make it a preferred destination for forex firms.
Any firm aiming to provide forex trading and investment services in Mauritius must obtain a trading license.
This license authorizes you to engage in forex trading and offer additional investment-related services within Mauritius.