Seychelles

Whether you're planning to explore pristine beaches on Mahé, conduct business in Victoria, or discover the unique biodiversity of these Indian Ocean islands, understanding Seychelles visa requirements ensures seamless entry to this tropical archipelago.

Navigating Seychelles Immigration Framework

Seychelles maintains a visitor-friendly immigration policy that welcomes international travelers while ensuring proper documentation compliance. Located strategically between Africa and Asia, this island nation serves as both a premium tourist destination and emerging business hub.

Key Traveler Categories

Our comprehensive guide addresses specific requirements for:

• Tourism visitors exploring natural reserves and luxury resorts
• Business professionals engaging in commercial activities
• Transit passengers connecting through Seychelles International Airport
• Extended stay applicants pursuing investment or residency opportunities

Professional Immigration Guidance

This authoritative resource transforms complex entry regulations into clear, actionable strategies. We provide expert analysis of documentation requirements, processing timelines, and compliance standards to ensure your Seychelles journey begins smoothly.

Most visitors do not need a visa to enter Seychelles. The country operates a visitor's permit system that grants entry upon arrival for tourism and business purposes, making it one of the most accessible destinations globally.

Visa-Free Entry (Visitor's Permit on Arrival)

Citizens from all countries can enter Seychelles without a pre-arranged visa and receive a visitor's permit valid for up to 30 days initially. This includes nationals from:

• European Union countries (all 27 member states)
• United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
• United Kingdom and British territories
• South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and other African nations
• India, China, Japan, South Korea and other Asian countries

Entry Requirements

All visitors must present:

• Passport valid for minimum 6 months from entry date
• Return or onward ticket
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
• Sufficient funds (approximately $150 per day)

Extensions and Longer Stays

Visitor's permits can be extended up to 3 months total through the Department of Immigration. Extensions require:

• Valid accommodation proof
• Financial means demonstration
• Clean criminal record (for stays over 1 month)

Transit Passengers

Travelers transiting through Seychelles International Airport without leaving the international area do not require permits, regardless of nationality or layover duration.

Always verify current requirements through the official Seychelles Department of Immigration website before travel, as conditions may change.

Tourist and Visitor Visas

Most visitors to Seychelles receive a Visitor's Permit upon arrival, valid for up to 30 days initially. This permit covers tourism, family visits, and short business meetings. Extensions are possible up to 3 months total stay through the Department of Immigration, subject to proof of accommodation and sufficient funds.

Business Visa Categories

Professional travelers require specific documentation for business activities:

• Short-term Business Permit: Conferences, meetings, negotiations (up to 30 days)
• Extended Business Visa: Project work, training programs (up to 3 months)
• Investment Visa: Long-term business establishment and investment activities

Work and Employment Permits

Employment in Seychelles requires a Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP), obtained through employer sponsorship. Categories include skilled workers, professionals, and seasonal employment. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks with job offer confirmation and skills assessment.

Student and Academic Visas

Student Permits are mandatory for educational programs exceeding 30 days. Requirements include acceptance letter from recognized institutions, financial guarantees, and health insurance coverage. Validity aligns with course duration.

Transit and Multiple-Entry Options

Transit passengers staying under 24 hours typically don't require visas. Multiple-entry permits are available for frequent visitors, valid for 1-year periods with maximum 90-day stays per visit. Ideal for business travelers and investors with ongoing commitments.

Special Categories

Diplomatic and official passport holders enjoy visa-free entry. Family reunion visas accommodate extended stays for visiting Seychellois residents and citizens, requiring relationship proof and local sponsorship.

Visa Requirements Overview

Good news: Most visitors to Seychelles receive a visitor's permit on arrival valid for up to 30 days, with no advance visa required. Citizens from all countries can enter visa-free initially, making Seychelles one of the world's most accessible destinations.

Processing Times & Extensions

• Initial entry: Immediate processing at airport immigration
• Extension applications: 5-7 business days through Immigration Division
• Work permits: 14-21 business days
• Student permits: 10-14 business days

Costs & Fee Structure

• Visitor's permit: Free on arrival (up to 30 days)
• Extension fees: SCR 640 ($47 USD) per month
• Work permit: SCR 5,000-15,000 ($370-$1,100 USD)
• Multiple entry permit: SCR 2,000 ($147 USD)

Application Locations & Contact

Immigration Division Seychelles
Independence House, Victoria, Mahé
Phone: +248 4293030
Email: info@immigration.gov.sc

Payment methods: Cash (SCR), bank transfer, or certified cheque accepted.

Essential Requirements

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Return/onward ticket confirmation
• Proof of accommodation
• Sufficient funds ($150 USD per day recommended)

Peak season note: December-January may see longer processing times for extensions due to high tourist volume.

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Requirements

Identify the correct visa category based on your travel purpose and intended duration. Tourist visas are available for up to 30 days initially, while business and other specific purposes require different documentation. Verify if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry or requires advance application.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Compile essential documents including:

• Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
• Completed application form with accurate information
• Recent passport-sized photographs meeting specifications
• Proof of accommodation and return flight tickets
• Financial statements demonstrating sufficient funds

Step 3: Complete Application Submission

Most visitors receive visitor's permits upon arrival at Seychelles International Airport. Present your documentation to immigration officers who will process your entry permit. For specific visa types requiring advance application, submit through designated diplomatic missions.

Step 4: Pay Required Fees

Entry permits are typically issued free of charge for eligible tourists. Specialized visa categories may incur processing fees payable through accepted payment methods at the point of application or entry.

Step 5: Processing and Approval

Upon arrival processing usually takes 15-30 minutes at immigration counters. Advance applications through embassies typically require 5-10 working days. Ensure all documentation is properly organized for efficient processing.

Step 6: Extension Procedures

To extend your stay beyond the initial permit period, visit the Immigration Office in Victoria before your current permit expires. Submit extension applications with supporting documentation and pay applicable fees for extended stays up to 12 months total.