Mauritius has been a popular option for those who want to retire to Mauritius from the UK and live comfortably. With its resilient economy, tropical climate and pleasant lifestyle, Mauritius naturally reduces day-to-day stress. With the instability of crises and political changes, UK citizens are seeking an alternative for residency while some are thinking of moving from the UK permanently. Mauritius offers both a reliable backup residency and an ideal place for long-term living. Retiring to Mauritius from the UK provides benefits such as:
- Stable and growing economy
- English speaking with the top court being the Privy Council in England
- Safe living environment
- Simple and attractive tax system with no capital gains or inheritance tax
- Strong private education system
- Quality private healthcare
- Affordable living expenditure
- Lively expat communities
- No minimum physical stay requirement
Why Mauritius Appeals to UK and International Retirees
Originally from the UK, the founder of TBI, Philip Tsalikis embarked on the process of moving here for the first time 15 years ago and has since been assisting foreigners with their immigration, business and investments in Mauritius. We are seeing many people from the UK, Europe and the US, who are disillusioned with where their country is going and would like to at the least have a backup plan that is cost-effective. It can then be used for holidays or retirement at the least, but also for making a more permanent move and limiting the Government tax and influence over the choices people make. The life in Mauritius is safe, simple, multicultural, outdoors, tropical and it has some of the highest quality air in the world. Where however it distinguishes itself from other tropical options, is by having a powerful global business centre, world-class banking, quality healthcare, and a thriving economy that is not reliant on tourism alone which is what leaves many other countries vulnerable.
How to retire to Mauritius from the UK
To retire to Mauritius from the UK, foreigners who are 50 years old or above can retire on the 10-year retirement permit. A monthly transfer of USD 2,000 to your personal account in Mauritius, or a minimum of USD 24,000 in your bank account, must be shown as proof of funds. If you are considering retiring to Mauritius from the UK, it is a great opportunity to enjoy a high standard of living, a resilient economy and a peaceful lifestyle. Some possible alternatives to retire in Mauritius are mainly through:
Residency By Investment in Mauritius
- Property Investment: Property worth at least USD 375,000 in an approved scheme such as PDS, G+2 or SCS. This investment leads to permanent residence. UK citizens become eligible for a residence permit valid as long as they own the property. Read more on the rules for buying property here.
- Business Investment: Investors or self-employed with a minimum investment of USD 50,000. Read more on the investor permit and self-employed permit here.
Permanent Residence for UK citizens
UK citizens can get permanent residence by retiring in Mauritius. The 10-year retirement permit can lead to a 20-year permanent residence permit if at least USD 200,000 is transferred over the first 5 years. Otherwise, they can choose to renew the retirement permit for another 10 years.
Application Timeline to Retire to Mauritius from the UK
The Mauritius retirement permit application process for UK citizens is simple and straightforward. The whole process from submitting documents to receiving the permit can take up to 4 months.
Eligibility
To retire to Mauritius, a UK citizen must be at least 50 years old. A transfer of USD 2,000 per month, or a minimum of USD 24,000 per year, must be made each year. Applicants are also required to transfer USD 2,000 to a local bank in Mauritius once their permit has been issued.
Document Requirements and Submission
To apply for the retirement permit, UK citizens will need to provide documents such as a passport, birth certificate, passport photos, and recent bank statements showing sufficient funds. Applicants must also provide police clearance certificates from every country they have permanently resided in during the past 10 years. Depending on the issuing authorities, obtaining these documents can take a few days to a few weeks. Once all documents are received, it generally takes a few days to prepare and submit the first set of documents to the EDB.
How TBI assists:
We review all documents, verify that formats meet EDB standards, and prepare the full submission on your behalf. Our team also communicates directly with EDB officers, helping avoid delays caused by incorrect, incomplete, or non-compliant documentation.
Approval in Principle (3-6 weeks)
Once submitted, the EDB will review and validate the application. Approval in Principle is normally issued within 3–6 weeks. After this, applicants may travel to Mauritius to finalise the process.
How TBI assists:
TBI tracks the progress of your application, follows up directly with the EDB when required, and updates you at every step. Our long-standing working relationship with the EDB helps ensure the process remains smooth and efficient.
Arrival in Mauritius (Within 90 days after document approval)
Once the Approval in Principle is issued, the applicant has up to 90 days to come to Mauritius. During this period, medical tests must be completed and medical reports must be submitted, along with a bank statement showing a minimum of USD 24,000. An appointment will then be set at the EDB to present the original documents in person.
How TBI assists:
We organise all medical appointments, coordinate document submissions, and accompany you to the EDB appointment to present originals and will deal with the authorities on your behalf. TBI also offers support for dependent permit applications where applicable.
Permit Issue (1 week after appointment)
The EDB will issue the Retired Non-Citizen Residence Permit. The applicant will then need to collect the permit, usually within one week of the appointment. Once issued, there is a requirement to submit a bank statement from a Mauritian bank within 60 days, showing that USD 2,000 has been successfully transferred to Mauritius.
How TBI assists:
We guide you on the next steps, including ensuring that the Mauritian bank statement is correctly prepared and submitted within the required timeframe. Our support continues even after issuance of the permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tax-benefits in Mauritius?
Mauritius operates on a reasonable tax structure. There are no inheritance or capital gains taxes. It has a progressive tax system, with the first MUR 500,000 being tax-free, the next MUR 500,000 taxed at 10%, and any amount exceeding MUR 1 million taxed at 20%.
How long can UK citizens stay in Mauritius before obtaining a residence permit?
They can stay up to 180 days visa-free although it is not guaranteed for the full amount. To stay longer, they will need to apply for the residence permit.
What are the healthcare and insurance options for retired UK non-citizens in Mauritius?
Public healthcare is free of cost and accessible to all here. However, many foreigners seek private healthcare services from clinics and private health insurances.
Is it easy to move to Mauritius from the UK?
Yes, it is easier compared to other countries. Mauritius has a bilingual community and has clear residency requirements. The process is reachable whether one is working remotely, retiring, setting up a business or buying properties.
What Can TBI Business Advisors Do For You
- We will have a Zoom/ Teams call or email exchange to understand your requirements.
- TBI will advise on the appropriate permit or visa for coming to Mauritius.
- We will send a detailed proposal with clear costs, timeframes and explanations.
- We will assemble the documents and make the application on your behalf.
- TBI can assist with relocation tasks such as helping with schools, accommodation, insurance, choosing locations.
- We can assist with the finding and purchasing of property, and setting up of an entity to purchase through.
- If you need assistance with setting up companies whether as an investor or just creating a business here.
- The directors can act as Commissioner for Oaths.
- We can assist with other business advice and can bring in law firms as and when required.
While every effort is made to ensure that the information given is accurate, the information on this site does not contain legal, tax or any other professional advice. We accept no responsibility or liability due to any information or representation, whether accurate or not, relied upon in the contents. It is an information guide to provide the reader with a useful general, but basic understanding of the different considerations. You must seek local legal, tax or other professional advice before relying on the contents of this site.
