Mauritius, a tropical jewel in the heart of the Indian Ocean, has long been renowned for its fine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural scenery. But this enchanting island is more than just a dream holiday destination. It has also become a haven for many retirees, who come here to enjoy their retirement in a peaceful and idyllic setting.
With more than 3,000 expatriate French retirees, representing almost half of the foreign retirees living on the island, Mauritius is attracting more and more people looking to escape the stress and bustle of the big cities. Attracted by the many advantages on offer, they choose to spend their golden years here.
The Mauritian government is actively trying to make it easier for foreign retirees to settle here by simplifying the administrative procedures. Why choose Mauritius for your retirement? What are the advantages for expatriate French retirees? What are the formalities involved in moving to Mauritius for retirement? What is daily life like for a retiree in Mauritius? Find the answers to all these questions in this blog post!
Retire to Mauritius in an ideal climate surrounded by lush natural surroundings
The tropical climate of Mauritius, mild and sunny with temperatures varying between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius all year round, offers an exceptionally pleasant living environment, far removed from the harsh winters and stifling heatwaves. The natural beauty of the country is incomparable: heavenly beaches, lush forests, green plains and rugged mountains offer breathtaking scenery. These ecosystems are home to a wide variety of animal and plant species, many of which are endemic and benefit from conservation programmes. When you retire to Mauritius, you can enjoy the gentle Mauritian way of life in an unspoilt natural setting.
The ideal quality of life for retirement in Mauritius
The quality of life in Mauritius is incomparable, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Europe. In addition to its beauty, tropical climate and exceptional biodiversity, Mauritian social harmony makes retired life all the more pleasant and fulfilling. Mauritians are warm and welcoming, and many speak fluent French, making it easy to integrate into an active community life.
The cost of living in Mauritius for retired expatriates is lower than in many Western countries. Accommodation, food and health costs are often more affordable, allowing people to live comfortably. Public services are also of a very high standard.
Mauritius offers a fantastic playground with a multitude of leisure activities: hiking, cycling, golf, hunting, swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, kitesurfing, etc.
Retire to Mauritius in a wealthy, secure country
Mauritius is renowned for its political stability and security. Since its independence in 1968, the country has enjoyed stable and democratic governance. The Mauritian economy is dynamic and often held up as a model on the African continent. In 2023, GDP per capita was US$29,164, making Mauritius the second richest country in Africa. The country ranks 28th in the world in terms of security according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) in 2021 and 1st on the African continent.
Benefit from Mauritius’ excellent health system
The Mauritian health system is of a very high standard, comparable to the Westerners medical infrastructure. Most doctors are graduates of European faculties, and many private clinics have state-of-the-art medical equipment. The cost of medical care is more affordable than in Europe or North America, a significant advantage for retirees.
Benefit from Mauritius’ excellent health system
Mauritius has a simple tax system that is highly favourable to foreign investors. Thanks to the double taxation treaty signed with France in 1980, retired expatriates enjoy attractive tax benefits:
- Tax on professional and rental income capped at 15%.
- Corporation tax and VAT capped at 15
- No social security contributions (CSG/CRDS) or taxation on dividends
- No property tax or council tax
- Exemption of property located in Mauritius from the calculation of the Impôt sur la Fortune Immobilière (IFI) (wealth tax)
- Exemption from capital gains tax on the resale of a property
- Exemption from inheritance tax (if the beneficiaries are resident in Mauritius for tax purposes).
Investing in Mauritian property for retirement in Mauritius
The Mauritian authorities have set up various schemes to enable foreign nationals to acquire property. The purchase of a property worth at least US$375,000 entitles the buyer and his family to a permanent residence permit, enabling them to settle in Mauritius.
The main systems are :
- Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS): top-of-the-range residential complexes with a minimum investment of US$375,000.
- Real Estate Scheme (RES): projects offering residences in exclusive residential complexes, built on land of less than 10 hectares.
- Property Development Scheme (PDS) : investments in luxury residential properties, offering top-of-the-range amenities and leisure facilities.
- Ground floor + 2 storeys (R+2): allows foreigners to invest in a condominium flat in a building with at least 2 storeys.
Retirement in Mauritius made easy
Mauritius offers a “retirement permit” for non-citizens aged 50 and over. It offers significant advantages for senior citizens wishing to live out their retirement on the island. The permit is valid for ten years and can be renewed. Family members are also eligible for the same period.
Applying for a retired licence is relatively straightforward, and the Mauritian government makes the administrative process easy. The Mauritian judicial system is independent and respects the rights and interests of all. In addition, Mauritians are often bilingual or even trilingual, with English and French commonly spoken in addition to Creole.
Discover and immerse yourself in the colourful Mauritian culture
Mauritian culture and the friendliness of the Mauritian people are major reasons for choosing Mauritius for your retirement. The Mauritian people are welcoming, warm and diverse, with varied ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The island’s history, marked by various waves of immigration, has created a unique multicultural society. Europeans, Creoles, Indians, Chinese, Africans… Mauritius is a blend of influences from all over the world.
These influences are also reflected in Mauritian cuisine, a delicious blend of flavours that is a true testament to its diversity. This cultural richness alone is an undeniable reason to come and spend your retirement in Mauritius.
Good to know : How can I become a retired expatriate in Mauritius?
To be able to live in Mauritius as a pensioner, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must not be a citizen of Mauritius and you must be at least 50 years old.
- Pass certain medical examinations less than six months before applying for your licence.
- Make an initial transfer of US$1,500 (or its equivalent in foreign currency) into a Mauritian bank account.
- Thereafter, transfer a minimum of US$1,500 per month for an annual total of at least US$18,000, for the ten years of validity of the residence permit.
- At the end of each year, submit to the Economic Development Board (EDB) proof of transfer of funds to the Mauritian bank account.
If all these conditions are met, it is possible to apply for permanent residence for a period of 10 to 20 years.
Discover the many property developments to invest in in Mauritius
Le Domaine d’Anbalaba: South Mauritius’ new lifestyle destination
One of the many developments marketed by Côté Sud is Le Domaine d’Anbalaba.
This exceptional IRS offers an enchanting living environment combining modern comfort and respect for the environment. Located in Baie du Cap, in an authentic fishing village, this development offers luxury bioclimatic villas, top-of-the-range flats and building plots, all with spectacular views over the southern lagoon.
Each property is designed to guarantee your privacy in idyllic surroundings. By choosing Le Domaine d’Anbalaba, you are making a sound investment with a high return thanks to its rental management service.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to live in paradise. You’re within easy reach of the best kite surfing and hiking spots and the Heritage Golf Club. Treat yourself to the luxury of a retreat in perfect harmony with nature and entertain your loved ones in a dream location. Contact us for more information!
