Retirement Visas & Residency in Mauritius

Retirement isn’t just about saving money — it’s about choosing the right place to spend your golden years in comfort, safety, and happiness. For many retirees, Mauritius has become one of the most appealing destinations in the world. This Indian Ocean island offers a peaceful environment , stable government , excellent healthcare , and favorable tax conditions , making it a perfect option for those seeking a relaxed, sun-soaked retirement.

However, for non-citizens, moving to Mauritius permanently requires an understanding of the retirement visa and residency permit systems . The Mauritian government provides several clear legal pathways for retirees, but each comes with its own eligibility requirements, documentation process, and financial thresholds.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about retiring in Mauritius , including the types of residence permits , who qualifies , how to apply , key financial and legal requirements , real-world case studies , and tips to avoid common pitfalls . By the end, you’ll have a complete roadmap to help you decide whether Mauritius is the right destination for your retirement dream — and how to make that dream a reality.

1. Why Retire in Mauritius? Before diving into visas and paperwork, it’s important to understand why Mauritius has become a top destination for retirees and what you should consider before making the move.

1.1 The Appeal of Mauritius Mauritius combines tropical island beauty with a high standard of living. With its turquoise lagoons, year-round warm climate, and friendly multicultural population, it offers a relaxed yet sophisticated lifestyle.

Key attractions include:

Tropical climate and stunning beaches ideal for a slower pace of life.

Excellent connectivity to Africa, Asia, and Europe via international flights.

Reliable infrastructure , including healthcare, telecommunications, and modern amenities.

Attractive tax regime — no inheritance tax, no capital gains tax, and a low flat income tax (10–15%).

Mauritius also maintains political stability and safety , making it one of the most secure destinations for retirees in Africa.

1.2 Key Considerations for Retirees While Mauritius is idyllic, planning your move requires careful consideration of:

Cost of living: While more affordable than most Western nations, imported goods and private healthcare can be pricey.

Healthcare: Both public and private systems exist; non-citizens may prefer private clinics.

Legal residency: Choose the right permit for long-term stability.

Financial planning: Understand pension transfers, double taxation treaties, and bank account requirements.

Lifestyle and integration: Consider language, culture, community, and access to services for dependents.

1.3 Real-World Insight Retirees often emphasize the importance of setting up a local Mauritian bank account early. As one retiree on Reddit shared:

“To get a retirement visa in Mauritius, you need to have USD 18,000... you will need to open a bank account in Mauritius and deposit it.”

This highlights that administrative and financial preparation are just as crucial as enjoying the tropical surroundings.

2. Retirement-Focused Residency Permits in Mauritius Mauritius offers several pathways to residency for retirees. Let’s explore each one and how it fits different retirement goals.

2.1 Residence Permit for Retired Non-Citizens (Age 50+) This is the main retirement visa program for foreigners aged 50 or above.

Key features:

Must be at least 50 years old and a non-citizen .

Must transfer a minimum of USD 18,000–24,000 annually into a Mauritian bank account.

Permit valid for 10 years , renewable upon compliance.

Dependents (spouse, parents, children) can be included.

Permit holders may invest in businesses (without active employment).

This option is ideal for retirees seeking long-term residence and flexibility.

2.2 Property Acquisition Residence Permit Mauritius also allows residency through approved real estate investments under schemes like:

Property Development Scheme (PDS)

Real Estate Scheme (RES)

Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS)

By investing in eligible property (often from USD 375,000 and above), non-citizens can apply for residency. Some senior-living developments under PDS specifically cater to retirees with flexible entry thresholds.

2.3 Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) After three years of holding a retirement residence permit and meeting the transfer requirement, retirees can apply for a 20-year Permanent Residence Permit . This long-term option ensures stability and allows for easier lifestyle planning.

2.4 Premium Travel Visa / Digital Nomad Visa For those not ready to commit fully, the Premium Travel Visa allows stays of up to one year (renewable) for long-term visitors or digital nomads. However, this is not a retirement visa and does not grant residency rights .

3. Eligibility and Requirements for the Retired Non-Citizen Permit Let’s break down the exact conditions you must meet to qualify.

3.1 Age and Citizenship You must be 50 years or older .

You must not hold Mauritian citizenship .

3.2 Financial Transfers Applicants must transfer funds into a local Mauritian bank account :

Minimum USD 1,500 per month or USD 18,000 per year (some updates cite USD 2,000/month).

Funds must come from outside Mauritius.

Proof of transfer is required annually by the Economic Development Board (EDB) .

Tip: Keep detailed bank statements and remittance records for renewals.

3.3 Bank Account Requirement Funds must be transferred into your own account in Mauritius . It’s advisable to open this account before application or immediately after approval.

3.4 Health, Character, and Documentation You’ll need:

Medical certificate (including HIV, Hepatitis B, chest X-ray).

Passport and birth certificate (with translations if needed).

Proof of income and recent bank statements.

Police clearance and photos.

3.5 Family Dependents Dependents include:

Spouse or common-law partner (opposite sex).

Parents.

Unmarried, unemployed children or stepchildren.

3.6 Residency and Tax There is no strict minimum stay , but:

Staying 183+ days/year may make you a tax resident .

Spending fewer than 180 days/year might affect renewal eligibility.

Actionable Tip: Discuss global tax implications with a professional before committing.

3.7 Duration and Renewal Residence permit: valid for 10 years , renewable.

After 3+ years, eligible for a 20-year PRP if transfer conditions are met.

4. Application Process: Step-by-Step 4.1 Preparing to Apply Confirm eligibility (age, income, non-citizenship).

Open a Mauritian bank account and initiate transfers.

Prepare documents:

Passport, birth certificate, proof of income, bank statements, photos, medical tests, residence address.

Arrange dependents’ paperwork if applicable.

Plan financial transfers and global tax compliance.

4.2 Submitting the Application Apply online via the National E-Licensing System (NELS) through the Economic Development Board (EDB) .

Some applicants can complete the process remotely.

Fees vary; approximate USD 1,000 for permit processing.

4.3 Post-Approval: Living in Mauritius Once approved:

You’ll receive your Residence Permit .

Maintain annual fund transfers.

Register with local tax authorities.

Obtain private health insurance if desired.

4.4 Renewal and Permanent Residence To renew:

Show annual proof of remittances and good conduct.

For PRP: demonstrate 3 years of compliance and at least USD 54,000 in total transfers.

4.5 Ongoing Compliance Submit yearly remittance proof to the EDB.

Monitor time spent in Mauritius for tax and renewal eligibility.

Keep documentation organized for audits or renewal.

5. Real-World Examples and Case Studies Example 1: Single Retiree A 55-year-old with a $30,000 annual pension transfers $18,000 yearly to Mauritius, obtains a 10-year permit, and after 3 years of compliance, upgrades to PRP.

Example 2: Retired Couple with Dependents A 52-year-old couple moves to Mauritius with their unmarried adult child. They maintain required transfers and qualify for renewal after 10 years.

Example 3: Common Pitfall A retiree fails to transfer the full $18,000 and spends minimal time in Mauritius. Renewal is delayed due to non-compliance. Lesson: Always meet financial and residency obligations.

Example 4: Property-Based Retirement A 60-year-old retiree buys a senior-living villa under a PDS scheme and secures residency through property investment.

6. Pros, Cons, and Practical Tips 6.1 Advantages 10-year renewable residence permit.

Upgrade path to 20-year PRP .

Ability to include dependents.

Favorable tax system .

Stable, scenic, and safe environment.

6.2 Limitations Must transfer USD 18,000–24,000 annually.

May need to spend minimum days in-country.

Private healthcare costs apply to non-citizens.

Potential currency exchange risks.

Investment route requires significant funds (USD 375,000+).

6.3 Tips for Success Start early: Prepare finances and open your local account before applying.

Budget wisely: Include housing, insurance, and lifestyle costs.

Maintain documentation: Keep all bank statements and remittance proofs.

Get expert help: Consult tax advisors familiar with Mauritius and your home country.

Stay updated: Immigration laws may change — check with EDB or local immigration consultants regularly.

7. Future Changes and Policy Updates Mauritius continues refining its immigration framework.

Recent updates include:

Stricter enforcement of minimum stay requirements (180 days/year).

New property purchase regulations (85% payment in MUR from Dec 2024).

Extended waiting periods for PRP and investor permits.

While the Retired Non-Citizen Permit remains one of the most stable options, retirees should apply under current terms before stricter rules potentially take effect.

Stay informed through the Economic Development Board (EDB) and reputable immigration advisories.

Retiring in Mauritius offers a unique blend of luxury, stability, and opportunity . With its 10-year renewable residence permit, path to permanent residency, and favorable tax regime, Mauritius stands out as one of the best destinations for retirees worldwide.

However, success depends on thorough preparation : meeting age and financial criteria, keeping consistent fund transfers, maintaining compliance, and understanding local tax obligations.