Retiring in Mauritius is a popular choice for many non-citizens. Mauritius is known for its natural beauty, in fact, often referred as the pearl of the Indian ocean with enduring warm weather and mild winters. The island is lauded for its harmonious climate, bilingual and welcoming population, low crime rates, peaceful lifestyle and for being a cost-effective destination.
Retirees can enjoy a high quality of life and have peace of mind regarding safety and political stability. According to the 2023 Global Peace Index (GPI), Mauritius shines as Africa's oasis of peace and harmony.
Other than the conducive weather and affordable lifestyle, Mauritius has a well-established expat community with diverse nationalities and religions. With the island’s welcoming atmosphere and local community, expatriates can swiftly blend in and find a sense of belonging in Mauritius.
Foreign citizens from a number of countries can visit Mauritius on a tourist visa for up to 90 days. In the same vein, visas are also exempted for visitors from EU countries for a period of 90 days. However, non-citizens who wish to remain in Mauritius for longer than three months, may consider opting for a 1-year Premium Visa, which is renewable. The Premium Visa allows a foreigner to stay in Mauritius along with family and work remotely from Mauritius.
Another option to reside and retire in Mauritius for those who are above 50 years old, is the Residence Permit for foreign retirees. This permit is the most straight forward choice and can be valid for a period of 10 years. Any non-citizen applying for this residence permit is no longer obliged to open a Mauritian bank account. Instead, the applicant will have to submit a certified bank statement from his country of origin or residence showing an available minimum amount of USD 18,000 yearly or a guaranteed minimum transfer of USD 1,500 monthly. The dependents of the residence permit holder can also stay in Mauritius for the equivalent period.
Furthermore, after living under the retired residence permit in Mauritius for 3 consecutive years, the non-citizen may submit a request for a 20-year Permanent Residence Permit to the Prime Minister’s Office.
It is also possible to obtain a residence permit through the acquisition of a residential property, valued at more than USD 375,000.
Mauritius is home to more than 17,100 expats, with a considerable number of foreigners choosing to re-locate here with their families on a medium to long term basis. This trend has been more evident in the last few years, post-covid.
Despite being a small island, Mauritius offers countless opportunities to fulfil the aspirations of any person of any age, including a tranquil lifestyle, dynamic work environment, advanced medical facilities, and abundant investment prospects.
