What is an Authorised Company?
The Authorised Company (AC) is a corporate structure available under Mauritius law for entities that conduct their business activities exclusively outside of Mauritius. Introduced as part of the 2018-2019 regulatory reforms that replaced the former GBC2 category, the AC is registered with the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and governed by the Companies Act 2001 and the Financial Services Act 2007.
The AC offers a simplified regulatory framework compared to the Global Business Company (GBC), making it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs and businesses seeking a cost-effective international structure without the need for treaty access.
Key Features of the Authorised Company
Simplified Structure
Unlike a GBC, an Authorised Company does not require a minimum of two resident directors or mandatory substance in Mauritius. It can be managed from abroad, making it ideal for entrepreneurs who wish to maintain operational flexibility while benefiting from a reputable jurisdiction.
Cost-Effective
The AC has significantly lower setup and running costs compared to a GBC. There is no requirement for audited financial statements (unless turnover exceeds MUR 100 million), and the annual FSC registration fee is only USD 300 compared to USD 1,950 for a GBC.
No DTA Access
The AC does not hold a Global Business Licence and therefore cannot benefit from Mauritius's network of double taxation agreements. If treaty access is essential for your business, consider the GBC structure instead.
Tax Treatment
An Authorised Company is subject to Mauritius income tax at 15% only on income sourced from Mauritius. Since the AC conducts business exclusively outside Mauritius, its foreign-source income is generally not taxable in Mauritius, resulting in an effective tax burden of 0% on foreign income.
Ideal Use Cases for an AC
E-Commerce & Digital Business
Online retail, SaaS platforms, digital marketing agencies, and app-based businesses that operate internationally.
Consulting & Professional Services
Management consulting, IT services, legal advisory, and other professional services delivered to international clients.
IP Holding & Licensing
Intellectual property holding, trademark licensing, franchise management, and technology licensing arrangements.
International Trading
Import/export operations, commodity trading, and distribution activities that do not involve Mauritius as a market.
AC Formation Process
- Step 1: Consultation — We assess your needs and confirm the AC is the right structure. We can also help you compare with a GBC.
- Step 2: Due diligence — Collection of KYC/AML documents: passport, proof of address, CV, and source of funds documentation.
- Step 3: Company registration — Filing with the Registrar of Companies and FSC registration as an Authorised Company.
- Step 4: Bank account — Assistance with opening a corporate bank account in Mauritius or internationally.
- Step 5: Operational launch — Your AC is ready to commence business activities outside Mauritius.
AC Costs
| Item | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Incorporation fees | 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Annual FSC registration fee | 300 |
| Registered agent | Included |
| Annual compliance | 1,500 – 2,500 |
| Financial statements (unaudited) | 500 – 1,000 |
For full cost details, see our company formation costs page.
AC vs GBC: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Authorised Company | GBC |
|---|---|---|
| FSC Licence | Registration only | Global Business Licence |
| DTA access | No | Yes (45+ treaties) |
| Resident directors | Not required | Minimum 2 |
| Substance requirements | Minimal | Full substance required |
| Annual licence fee | USD 300 | USD 1,950 |
| Audit requirement | Only if turnover > MUR 100M | Mandatory |
| Setup time | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Tax on foreign income | 0% | 3% (partial exemption) |
Read the full GBC vs AC comparison for more details.
Regulatory Framework
The Authorised Company is governed by:
- Companies Act 2001 — Corporate formation and governance
- Financial Services Act 2007 — FSC registration requirements
- Financial Intelligence and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2002 — AML/KYC obligations
Ongoing Compliance
While the AC has lighter compliance requirements than a GBC, it must still meet certain obligations:
- Annual return filing with the Registrar of Companies
- Maintenance of accounting records
- Preparation of financial statements
- AML/KYC compliance through the registered agent
- Annual FSC registration renewal
Is an AC right for you? Sunibel Corporate Services can help you determine the optimal structure for your international business. Contact us for a free consultation.