In 2022, of the 830,000 passengers over the age of twenty, a third were over fifty, and of these, almost half were over sixty! But if seniors are undoubtedly attracted by a destination where it’s good to stay, they are also attracted by the assets of a country where it’s good to live! This is evidenced by the increase in the number of foreign retirees living in Mauritius, which jumped by over 150% between 2007 and 2022.
Delphine Raimond
As a preamble to the topic of expatriation, it’s worth noting that the local situation is following the growing curve of the world’s aging population. According to the United Nations, 30% of Mauritians will be over 65 by 2050. A figure that is forcing retired citizens to think about maintaining their purchasing power. Fully aware of the need to supplement their pensions – basic, provided by the State, and occupational, paid by their employer – they are turning to solutions that provide them with a stable source of income, such as the pension plans offered by local companies, whose contributions are tax-deductible up to 50,000 rupees a year.
THE SILVER ECONOMY
Entirely dedicated to the advancing age of our society, this cross-functional economy is primarily devoted to ageing well. A major contributor to the development of global markets, activities and industrial issues, it boosts local consumption, boosts the real estate sector, creates jobs, attracts foreign talent… In fact, for several years now, it has been at the center of attention in the island’s economic system, which has seized the opportunity to position itself as a privileged place of residence for the elderly. Numerous marketing and advertising campaigns have been carried out on various channels, such as Euronews and TF1, via videos on board Emirates and Air Mauritius aircraft, or through specialized conferences and roadshows in France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the UK, Monaco and South Africa.
In charge of the country’s economic development and promotion, and well aware of the positive impact of the silver economy on absolutely all sectors, the EDB (Economic Development Board) intends to step up its promotional campaigns and, what’s more, attract foreign operators to healthcare establishments and other adapted structures.
INCENTIVES
Mauritius is riding the silver wave, both to diversify the tourism industry and to encourage the installation and investment of the silver target. Did you know that the average expenditure of a foreign retired resident is equivalent to that of more than 15 “standard” tourists? So it’s easy to see why the government is so keen to open up its policy and adjust its annual budgetary measures.
The Premium visa is undoubtedly today’s flagship initiative. Issued free of charge to one non-citizen (and two accompanying persons) for a period ranging from six months to one year, it is renewable and open to all. Applications are made online via the EDB website. Ideal for telecommuting or as a gentle “test” alternative, the conditions for obtaining this permit are simple: prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself financially, take out health insurance covering the initial period of stay, do not enter the Mauritian job market and receive income (from an employer or self-employed activity) from a foreign source. In addition, it authorizes its holder (notably a retired person) to apply for an Occupation Permit from the EDB, or to invest in a property purchase.
Access to property ownership is strongly encouraged, as more and more foreigners, particularly senior citizens, are becoming interested in Mauritius. Property can be purchased under one of the local schemes – Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS), Real Estate Scheme (RES), Property Development Scheme (PDS), Smart City Scheme (SCS) – or in a building of at least two storeys, and requires a residence permit for retired non-citizens and their families. The requirements, which are a purchase price of over $200,000 and an age of over 50, don’t seem to be a hindrance!
The easing of procedures for obtaining a residence and/or work permit is also part of the new budgetary conditions. For example, foreign retirees will no longer be required to open a local bank account in the initial phase, greatly simplifying the logistical process! On the health front, residents over the age of 60 will have access to medical insurance. What’s more, in an effort to establish a legal framework tailored to the profiles of young retirees still working in their home country, the government has authorized them to take up employment in specific sectors, sharing their skills and know-how with Mauritians.
However, Maurice would no longer be Maurice if it weren’t for the administrative, medical and banking procedures that can galvanize even the most apathetic! Once the file has been compiled, it must be received, checked, examined and accepted… first in principle, then officially… Or how to make things simple when they can be complicated! Having said that, there’s nothing really rocket science about it: all you have to do is get used to the local way of doing things for a few months, and you’ll have the sesame… valid for ten years!
A DIVERSIFIED OFFERING
Numerous residential projects – both completed and underway – are available to our silver target. The Domaine de Grand Baie, which needs no introduction, offers senior-friendly facilities and services that reflect the Domitys Group’s caring approach. Unlike other Domitys establishments, the majority of residents in Mauritius are holidaymakers… and they’re far from all seniors! Proof that everyone can appreciate the concept: convenience, security, serenity. “You’re at home, not just passing through” is enough to describe the comfort of the apartments, the well-being and conviviality of the spa, the swimming pool, the two restaurants, and so on. The presence and availability of our 24/7 staff, as well as a multitude of services and activities (some of which are free of charge), make an undeniable difference to our senior clientele.
Spread over 22 hectares along the north coast, Cap Marina (Evaco) is the largest real estate project built in less than 6 years. An impressive commercial, gastronomic and cultural hub (no less than two museums) complements the residential offer. Thierry Coret, Head of Marketing at Evaco, reports a cosmopolitan community, mainly French and South African, but also 20% Mauritian. Half the owners are aged between 40 and 55, still active and mainly families. The other half are retirees, aged 55 to 70, looking for proximity to everyday activities and facilities, in a peaceful, secure environment. Harmony villas meet the specific and evolving needs of seniors, within a dedicated village. Ranging in size from 110 to 150m2, they have two or three bedrooms, a private garden and are above all functional, even when disabled. They feature flat floors, stairless entrances, wide wheelchair-accessible doors, circulation areas for easy mobility, bathrooms equipped with grab bars, large safety showers, non-slip floors… The layout is ergonomic, compliant and appropriate. Thierry confirms that an emergency call system linked to the internal medical area will soon be operational, and that for the time being, an assistance button enables a private security company to alert the nearest clinics.
In Moka, set in lush parkland facing the mountains, Les Jardins de Chantenay has been looking after its residents since 2012 and employs 120 people. Developed by Senior Homes, the assisted-living residence features 70 apartments (studio to two-bedroom) and a 24/7 nursing care center and team. Residents, whose average age is 80, are also offered a home help service, with meal preparation, housekeeping, laundry, etc. The convalescent, respite or palliative care facility has a day center offering stimulating activities and workshops – memory games, gardening, art therapy, musical entertainment, etc. – supervised by a multidisciplinary team. – supervised by a multidisciplinary team. While the majority of residents are Mauritians or bi-nationals, the residence also welcomes foreigners, mainly French and South Africans, who can purchase lifetime leases, with the agreement of the EDB. “We want to expand in the central region of the island, to meet demand. We are making a considerable effort to offer quality infrastructure and care… demand is always high when the service is qualitative”, confides Sarah Heller, Senior Homes’ director.
LE BONHEUR EST À MAURICE
Contrary to popular belief, the choice of a peaceful retirement in the sun caters for all socio-professional profiles. In addition to a financially well-off category, with access to the most expensive real estate and a disconcerting rise in market prices, the region also boasts a population of senior expatriates looking for something different. Raw happiness in a “local” lifestyle compatible with limited purchasing power.
The most Mauritian of French pensioners!
Ever since he fell in love with Mauritius in 1976, Erwan has never stopped dreaming of one day moving there. His life was interwoven with serendipity, encounters, opportunities and jobs all over the world, enabling him to finance no less than 32 trips to the island… before settling down for good, almost twenty years ago! Back then, he found his niche in the hotel, restaurant and service industries, measuring every day how lucky he was to work and live in paradise, on the east coast, with his feet in the water and his head in the stars! He quickly mingled with Mauritians, forging strong ties that added to his solid network of Franco-Swiss friendships, anchoring himself in a happy existence that fulfilled him more and more each day. When the time came to retire at the end of 2016, his decision not to leave his beloved country was obvious.
Loquacious, curious, cheerful… candid too, Erwan is a colorful character! When I meet him at La Croisette to hear his story, he confesses that he hasn’t been to the north – civilization – for four years! His pension may be small, but his happiness is great. At 69, Erwan gives of his time, and has always been involved in local voluntary work and literacy programs. He also feels at home in his garden, beside his little river, facing the cane fields and mountains. He enjoys entertaining friends and cooking. Walking with his dog… in his neighborhood, his village.
Despite his limited purchasing power, his philosophy of sharing and simple pleasures is enough to make him happy. “Happiness means feeling good about yourself… but especially about others! I don’t like people’s stories, I like people’s stories! I’m not here to play pétanque with expats in Pereybère. There’s no point – you might as well go and live in the South of France! So, when I ask him what he thinks should motivate a move to Mauritius, he spontaneously replies: “Love at first sight! You have to love this country. I’m not talking about beaches, coconut palms and lagoons, but people! You have to get involved, open up and understand them. There are sunny countries all over the world, so such a radical change, so far away from your loved ones, has to be motivated by deeper things! Of course, people get annoyed… with the driving, the slowness… but you have to look the other way! Mauritians love foreigners and like to be of service! To sum up, Erwan wants to distinguish between the notions of “settling in Mauritius” and “living in Mauritius”, because the difference is enormous. And while this literary man does confide in me the minor inconvenience of “not fully getting to grips with the intellectual aspect”, he goes on to wax poetic about multiculturalism, the solidarity of the locals, the beauty of the landscapes… and the saris that flap in the wind, and wouldn’t change his life for anything in the world!
Back home!
Settled in Mauritius since 2017, Florence and Jean-Yves are happily retired! And with good reason: Florence is Mauritian, and it was to follow her French husband that she left her island at the age of 24, only to return more than three decades later at the age of 58. It was an obvious return home for her – despite having loved her life and work in France – and a carefully considered one for Jean-Yves, who wouldn’t return to France for anything in the world! If French gastronomy and the incredible cultural offer (theater, shows, museums, concerts), added to the advantages of an excellent CE, are what Florence lacks most, she lends her island a unique quality of life: living in the fresh air all year round, enjoying the kindness, solidarity and spontaneity of the population, as well as a deep sense of security. Our young retirees live comfortably, thanks to their euro pensions, but recognize the financial gap between expatriates and locals, which is not always very well perceived. Today, the couple’s situation is ideal, since their two children have joined them as a family, much to their delight! “Of course, having your children and grandchildren here is a huge plus, but with or without them, this is where we planned to retire. Each time Jean-Yves returns to France, he can think of only one thing: boure avan fer tro fre! He’s always happy to be back on his little island!
Florence’s view of her country is nevertheless lucid: “After such a long absence, you have to get used to certain things again, and not criticize too much, so as not to offend the Mauritians. We’re the ones who come back to live with them! There are many things we have to deal with on a daily basis: cleanliness, pollution, incivility on the road and on the beaches, loud music, red tape… Our mountains are being torn up, our landscape is being disfigured, concrete is being poured all over the place… and yet there are no disciplinary rules (as there are in Rodrigues) to protect our seabed! But we’re learning to live with it, because there are so many good things about mo ti zil!
While meticulous planning is essential, it does not provide all the keys to happiness in the sun. The clash of cultures, norms and lifestyles; the ability to forge links and develop a social network and friendships; the geographical distance from one’s homeland and therefore from one’s children and grandchildren… can prove difficult, especially as adaptability to change is unique to each individual and impossible to assess outside the situation. Nonetheless, Mauritius continues to appeal, with good growth potential and a 53% increase in the number of active residence permits for senior citizens in the first half of 2023, compared with 2022!
