Overview of the National Pensions (Continuation of Benefits) Regulations 2025
The National Pensions (Continuation of Benefits) Regulations 2025 establish the legal framework for maintaining pension benefits for Mauritian beneficiaries who are temporarily abroad. These regulations, published as Government Gazette No. 89 of 8 November 2025 under GN No. 110 of 2025, are designed to clarify the procedures and conditions under which pension recipients can continue to receive their benefits while residing outside Mauritius for specific reasons such as medical treatment, studies, or extended stays.
Scope and Application of the Regulations
The regulations apply to pension beneficiaries who are temporarily outside of Mauritius and wish to continue receiving their pension benefits. They cover three main categories of beneficiaries:
- Individuals abroad for medical treatment
- Students pursuing full-time education abroad
- Retirement pensioners staying abroad for more than six months
These provisions are intended to ensure that beneficiaries do not lose their pension rights due to temporary absences, provided they adhere to the stipulated procedures and conditions.
Procedures for Beneficiaries Abroad for Medical Treatment
Beneficiaries seeking to receive pension benefits while undergoing medical treatment abroad must submit an application to the Medical Tribunal. The application should be made:
- Prior to leaving Mauritius; or
- Within three months of returning to Mauritius.
The application must be accompanied by:
- A medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner detailing the illness, the treatment required, and the expected duration; or
- A medical certificate from the foreign health institution confirming the treatment and its duration.
If the Medical Tribunal approves the application, the pension benefit can be extended for a maximum of 12 months. This period can be renewed in exceptional circumstances upon submission of additional medical evidence justifying the need for an extension.
Procedures for Beneficiaries Pursuing Studies Abroad
Individuals enrolled in full-time studies at recognized institutions abroad can maintain their pension benefits by applying to the Permanent Secretary. The application should include evidence of enrollment in an institution recognized by the Higher Education Commission or the Mauritius Qualifications Authority.
The benefit continuation is granted for up to three years, with possible renewal in exceptional cases. Beneficiaries must produce evidence of enrollment at the end of each academic year to continue receiving their pension benefits. Failure to provide such documentation will result in cessation of benefits.
Procedures for Retirement Pensioners Abroad
Retirement pensioners planning to stay abroad must notify the authorities through an application to the Permanent Secretary:
- At least one month before departure; or
- Within six months after departure for the continuation of benefits; or
- Within three months of return to Mauritius for arrears payment.
The regulations specify that if a pensioner’s stay abroad exceeds six months but remains within twelve months, their pension benefits can continue without interruption, provided the application is submitted within the specified deadlines.
Effective Date and Implementation
The National Pensions (Continuation of Benefits) Regulations 2025 came into effect on 1 July 2025. They represent a significant step towards streamlining the process for pension beneficiaries abroad, emphasizing transparency, and ensuring the continuity of pension rights during temporary absences.
Summary of Key Points for Beneficiaries
- Applications must be submitted within specific timeframes prior to departure or upon return.
- Supporting documentation, including medical certificates or proof of enrollment, is mandatory.
- Benefits can be extended up to 12 months for medical reasons and three years for educational pursuits, subject to renewal and evidence submission.
- Failure to adhere to procedures may result in cessation of pension payments.
For further information or assistance, beneficiaries are encouraged to consult the official guidelines published by the Ministry of Social Security, National Solidarity and Reform Institutions or contact the relevant authorities directly through the official government portals.
