Retire in Mauritius
Mauritius is consistently ranked among the best retirement destinations in the world. The island offers a unique combination of tropical climate, modern healthcare, safety, low cost of living, cultural diversity, and tax advantages that make it an ideal place to spend your retirement years. The Retirement Permit provides a straightforward pathway for retirees aged 50 and above to settle in Mauritius.
With a minimum monthly transfer of USD 1,500 to a Mauritian bank account, you receive a 10-year renewable residence permit. The permit covers you and your spouse. You can enjoy all the benefits of living in Mauritius — including the tax-free status of your foreign pension income — while maintaining connections to your home country.
Eligibility Requirements
Age
You must be at least 50 years of age at the time of application. There is no upper age limit. Both you and your spouse (if accompanying) must meet the personal document requirements.
Financial Requirement
You must transfer a minimum of USD 1,500 per month (or equivalent in another freely convertible currency) to a bank account in Mauritius. This transfer must be made from abroad and documented through bank statements. The income can come from any source:
- Pension payments (state pension, private pension, occupational pension)
- Investment income (dividends, interest, rental income)
- Annuity payments
- Any other regular income from abroad
The key requirement is regularity — the EDB needs to see that you have a reliable ongoing income stream sufficient to support your life in Mauritius without the need to work locally.
Personal Documents
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity)
- Police clearance certificate (less than 6 months old)
- Medical certificate confirming good health
- Proof of income (pension statements, investment account statements, bank statements)
- Proof of address in your current country
- Health insurance policy (covering Mauritius)
Why Retire in Mauritius?
Tax Advantages
The tax benefits for retirees in Mauritius are substantial:
- Foreign pension income — Not taxable in Mauritius if not remitted to the island. For non-domiciled residents, only income remitted to Mauritius is taxable
- No capital gains tax — Gains on the sale of investments, property, or other assets are not taxed
- No inheritance tax — No estate duty, wealth tax, or death duties
- No dividend tax — Investment income from dividends is not taxed
- Low income tax — Maximum rate of 15% on any Mauritius-sourced income
Healthcare
Mauritius has a dual healthcare system with both public and private facilities:
- Public healthcare — Free for all residents, including permit holders. Major hospitals in Port Louis, Rose Hill, Flacq, and Candos
- Private healthcare — Several private hospitals (C-Care, Wellkin Hospital, Fortis Clinique Darné) offer international-standard care with modern facilities and specialist doctors. Consultation fees typically range from USD 20-60
- Specialist care — Cardiology, oncology, orthopaedic, and other specialist services are available locally. For highly specialised procedures, Mauritius has medical evacuation arrangements with South Africa, India, and Europe
- Pharmacies — Well-stocked pharmacies throughout the island, with most international medications available
Cost of Living
| Expense | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (2-bed apartment, good area) | 500 – 1,200 |
| Rent (3-bed house, good area) | 800 – 2,000 |
| Groceries (couple) | 300 – 500 |
| Dining out (moderate) | 150 – 300 |
| Private health insurance | 100 – 300 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | 100 – 200 |
| Transport (car lease or fuel) | 150 – 300 |
| Leisure and entertainment | 200 – 500 |
| Total (couple, comfortable) | 1,500 – 4,000 |
Safety and Security
Mauritius is one of the safest countries in Africa, with low crime rates and a stable social environment. Violent crime is rare, particularly in residential areas popular with expatriates. The police service is professional and responsive. Gated communities and secure residential developments provide additional peace of mind for those who prefer them.
Climate and Environment
Mauritius enjoys a tropical maritime climate with warm temperatures year-round (20-30°C). The "summer" (November-April) is warm and humid, while the "winter" (May-October) is cooler and drier. The east coast receives more rainfall than the west coast. The island's natural beauty — beaches, mountains, nature reserves, and coral reefs — provides an exceptional setting for an active retirement.
Activities for Retirees
- Golf — Multiple championship golf courses (Anahita, Heritage, Mont Choisy, Avalon)
- Water sports — Sailing, fishing, snorkelling, diving, kayaking
- Nature — Hiking trails, nature reserves (Black River Gorges, Ile aux Aigrettes), botanical gardens
- Culture — Museums, temples, festivals, multicultural cuisine, live music
- Community — Active expatriate community with social clubs, cultural associations, and volunteer opportunities
Application Process
- Consultation — We assess your situation, confirm eligibility, and advise on practical aspects of retirement in Mauritius
- Document preparation — We help you compile all required documents including proof of income, police clearance, and health certificate
- Bank account — We assist with opening a bank account in Mauritius to receive your monthly transfers
- EDB application — We submit your Retirement Permit application to the EDB
- Processing — Typically 2-4 weeks
- Accommodation — We help you find suitable rental or purchase accommodation
Real Estate for Retirees
Many retirees choose to purchase property in Mauritius for long-term stability and potential capital appreciation. Foreign nationals can buy property under several approved schemes:
- Property Development Scheme (PDS) — Luxury residential developments; minimum investment USD 375,000 grants permanent residence
- Smart City Scheme — Modern mixed-use developments with residential, commercial, and leisure components
- Ground+2 apartments — Apartments in buildings of at least two floors; minimum investment MUR 6 million (approximately USD 130,000)
See our real estate guide for detailed information on buying property in Mauritius.
Health Insurance Recommendation
While public healthcare is free for permit holders, we strongly recommend private health insurance for comprehensive coverage. International health insurance policies (Cigna, Bupa, Allianz) typically cost USD 100-300/month for retirees and provide access to private hospitals, specialist consultations, and medical evacuation if needed.
Plan Your Retirement in Mauritius
Sunibel Corporate Services helps retirees navigate every aspect of relocating to Mauritius — from permit applications and bank account opening to real estate guidance and ongoing support. Let us help you start your new chapter in paradise. Contact us for a personalised retirement consultation.