Simple 4-step process — most travelers receive approval within 24-48 hours
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our streamlined application form with your personal details, travel plans, and accommodation information. Our intelligent validation system guides you through each section, checking for common errors and ensuring your application meets Seychelles immigration requirements.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible), a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of accommodation, and return flight details. Our visa specialists review every document against Seychelles Immigration standards before submission, significantly reducing the risk of rejection or delays.
3
We submit to Seychelles Immigration
Your verified application is transmitted directly to the Seychelles Department of Immigration. We monitor processing status in real-time and proactively communicate any updates, requests for additional documentation, or status changes via email and SMS.
4
Receive your travel authorization
Your approved Seychelles Travel Authorization arrives as a PDF document. Print it clearly on A4 paper and present it at Seychelles immigration along with your passport. Welcome to paradise — one of the world's most beautiful island destinations awaits!
Visa types needed for Seychelles
Available visa products
Seychelles Travel Authorization - 30 days, Single entry Most Popular
Seychelles Travel Authorization - 30 days, Single entry
The Seychelles eVisa provides access to pristine beaches and unique wildlife. Valid for 30 Days with single entry, this visa allows stays up to 90 days. Perfect for tourism and business.
Applicants must submit the following documents:
🛂 Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with blank pages
📘Passport valid for duration of stay with blank pages
🏨Confirmed hotel booking or accommodation proof
✈️Return or onward flight ticket required
💰Proof of sufficient funds ($150/day minimum)
📄Completed Travel Authorization form online
🏥Travel insurance strongly recommended
Visa-Free Paradise for All
Seychelles maintains one of the world's most welcoming visa policies — citizens of all countries can visit without obtaining a visa in advance. This open-door approach has helped establish Seychelles as a premier luxury tourism destination in the Indian Ocean.
Visitor's Permit — Automatic Entry
Upon arrival at Seychelles International Airport on Mahe, immigration officers issue a Visitor's Permit to all qualifying travelers. This permit allows stays up to 3 months for tourism, honeymoons, diving holidays, and visiting friends or family. There is no visa fee — the permit is granted free of charge.
Entry Requirements
While no visa is required, all visitors must meet standard entry requirements: a passport valid for the duration of stay, confirmed accommodation booking, return or onward flight ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay (approximately $150 USD per day). Since 2021, all travelers must also complete the Seychelles Travel Authorization online before departure — this digital health and travel declaration replaced previous arrival forms.
Permit Extensions
Visitor's Permits can be extended beyond the initial 3 months up to a maximum of 12 months. Extensions are processed at the Immigration Department in Victoria, Mahe, and require proof of continued accommodation, sufficient funds, and a valid reason for extending your stay.
Anse Source d'Argent — One of the world's most photographed beaches
Business & Work Permits
Business Visitor's Permit
Business travelers visiting Seychelles for meetings, conferences, market research, or establishing trade contacts can enter under the same Visitor's Permit system as tourists. No separate business visa category exists for short-term commercial visits. You may attend business meetings, negotiate contracts, and explore investment opportunities during your permitted stay.
Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP)
For those seeking employment or extended business activities in Seychelles, a Gainful Occupation Permit is required. This permit allows holders to work legally in Seychelles for periods up to 12 months, renewable annually. Application requirements: Job offer from a Seychelles-registered employer, proof of qualifications, police clearance certificate, medical examination, and employer sponsorship documentation. The GOP must be obtained before commencing any paid work.
Investment & Residence Options
Seychelles offers attractive options for investors and those seeking long-term residence. The Seychelles Economic Development Board facilitates investment permits for those establishing businesses, while residence permits are available for retirees with guaranteed income and property investors meeting minimum thresholds.
Victoria — The world's smallest capital city nestled among granite peaks
Travel Authorization & Requirements
Seychelles Travel Authorization (Required)
All visitors must complete the online Seychelles Travel Authorization before departure. This digital form collects travel details, accommodation information, and health declarations. Processing is typically instant, and approval is sent via email. Present the confirmation (printed or digital) at check-in and immigration.
Document Checklist
• Valid passport: Must be valid for the duration of your intended stay with at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps
• Accommodation proof: Hotel booking confirmation, resort reservation, or invitation letter from host
• Return ticket: Confirmed flight out of Seychelles or onward travel documentation
• Financial proof: Evidence of funds — credit cards, bank statements, or cash (minimum $150/day recommended)
• Travel Authorization: Completed online before departure
Health Requirements
Yellow fever vaccination is required only if arriving from or transiting through an endemic country. No other vaccinations are mandatory, though hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccinations are recommended. Seychelles is malaria-free, making it particularly appealing for family travel.
Vallee de Mai — UNESCO World Heritage prehistoric forest with endemic palms
Entry Points & Practical Information
Arrival & Immigration
Nearly all international visitors arrive at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahe, the main island. The airport receives direct flights from major hubs including Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, Paris, and Frankfurt. Immigration processing is typically efficient, though queues can form when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.
Inter-Island Travel
From Mahe, travelers reach other islands via:
• Domestic flights: Air Seychelles operates regular flights to Praslin (15 minutes) and other islands
• Fast ferries: Cat Cocos ferry connects Mahe to Praslin (1 hour) and La Digue (additional 15 minutes)
• Private charters: Helicopter and boat transfers available to outer islands and private resorts
Practical Tips
Seychelles uses the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), but Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted at hotels and tourist establishments. Credit cards work at most resorts and larger businesses. The islands operate on Seychelles Time (SCT/UTC+4) — 4 hours ahead of GMT with no daylight saving. English, French, and Seychellois Creole are official languages, with English widely spoken in tourism areas.
Travelers to Seychelles rated this product 4.7 out of 5 based on 10 reviews.
4.7/ 5
Based on 10 verified reviews
Filter by rating
Sophie M.Jan 18, 2026
"Honeymoon trip to Seychelles was perfect! DoVisa made the travel authorization process so easy. Arrived at the airport with everything ready and sailed through immigration."
Michael R.Jan 12, 2026
"Was unsure about entry requirements for Seychelles. DoVisa team explained everything clearly and helped with the travel authorization. Praslin was absolutely stunning!"
Emma L.Jan 5, 2026
"Family trip of a lifetime! Four of us needed travel authorizations and DoVisa handled all applications together. Beach was better than any photos we'd seen."
James K.Dec 28, 2025
"Quick and efficient service. Had my Seychelles travel authorization within hours. The snorkeling around La Digue was incredible - so many tropical fish!"
Charlotte P.Dec 20, 2025
"DoVisa's document checklist was so helpful for planning our Seychelles trip. No stress at immigration - everything was prepared perfectly. Thank you!"
David H.Dec 15, 2025
"Anniversary trip to Seychelles exceeded all expectations. DoVisa made sure we had everything ready. Those granite boulder beaches are unreal!"
Laura B.Dec 8, 2025
"First time traveling to the Indian Ocean. DoVisa answered all my questions about entry requirements and the travel authorization was approved same day."
Thomas G.Nov 30, 2025
"Business trip to Victoria went smoothly thanks to DoVisa. They explained exactly what documents I needed. Seychelles is beautiful even for work travel!"
Jennifer W.Nov 22, 2025
"The giant tortoises on Curieuse Island were amazing! So glad DoVisa handled our travel paperwork - we could focus on enjoying paradise."
Andrew C.Oct 15, 2025
"Diving holiday in Seychelles was incredible. DoVisa service was professional and the travel authorization came through quickly. Will definitely use again!"
Seychelles Visa FAQs
Do I need a visa to visit Seychelles?
No visa is required for any nationality to visit Seychelles. The islands maintain one of the world's most open visa policies — citizens of all countries can enter without obtaining a visa in advance. Upon arrival, immigration officers issue a free Visitor's Permit allowing stays up to 3 months. However, you must meet entry requirements: valid passport, confirmed accommodation, return flight, and proof of sufficient funds. Since 2021, all travelers must also complete the Seychelles Travel Authorization online before departure. This isn't a visa but a mandatory health and travel declaration form.
What is the Seychelles Travel Authorization and how do I get it?
The Seychelles Travel Authorization is a mandatory digital health and travel declaration that all visitors must complete before traveling. Introduced in 2021, it replaced paper arrival cards and serves as both an entry form and health screening tool. How to apply: Visit the official Seychelles Travel Authorization portal or use DoVisa's streamlined application service. Provide personal details, passport information, flight details, accommodation confirmation, and health declarations. Processing time: Usually instant to a few hours. Validity: Valid for your specific travel dates. Cost: The government fee varies but is typically minimal. Important: Complete this at least 72 hours before departure to avoid last-minute issues. Present the approval confirmation (printed or digital) at airline check-in and immigration.
How long can I stay in Seychelles?
Initial stays of up to 3 months are granted on arrival through the Visitor's Permit system. Extensions: Your stay can be extended beyond 3 months up to a maximum of 12 months total. Extension applications are processed at the Immigration Department in Victoria on Mahe island. Requirements for extension: Valid passport, proof of continued accommodation booking, evidence of sufficient funds for extended stay, and a valid reason for staying longer. Extension fees apply. Important considerations: Extensions are not automatic — you must apply before your current permit expires. Immigration officers assess whether your continued stay is justified and that you have adequate resources. Long-term options: Stays beyond 12 months require residence permits or other immigration categories. Many long-term visitors explore property investment or retirement visa options.
What documents do I need to enter Seychelles?
Essential entry documents: • Valid passport: Must be valid for the duration of your stay with at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps • Return or onward ticket: Confirmed flight booking departing Seychelles • Accommodation proof: Hotel reservation, resort booking, or invitation letter from host • Proof of funds: Bank statements, credit cards, or cash demonstrating approximately $150 per day of stay • Travel Authorization: Completed online before departure and approved. Additional recommendations: Travel insurance (strongly advised), vaccination records if arriving from yellow fever endemic country, and printed copies of all confirmations. Immigration officers verify these documents on arrival — incomplete documentation may result in denied entry or shortened permits.
Can I extend my stay in Seychelles?
Yes, Visitor's Permits can be extended beyond the initial 3 months. Maximum stay: Extensions allow stays up to 12 months total. Where to apply: Immigration Department headquarters in Victoria, Mahe (Independence House). When to apply: Before your current permit expires — do not overstay. Requirements: Valid passport, completed extension application form, proof of accommodation for extended period, evidence of sufficient funds, extension fee (varies by duration requested), and justification for continued stay. Processing time: Typically 1-3 business days. Tips: Apply at least one week before your permit expires; bring all original documents plus copies; morning visits to immigration tend to have shorter wait times. Note: Extensions are discretionary — immigration can refuse if your justification is inadequate or documentation incomplete.
Can I work in Seychelles with a Visitor's Permit?
No, the Visitor's Permit does not authorize any form of employment. Working without proper authorization is illegal and can result in deportation and entry bans. Legal work requirements: A Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) is mandatory for any paid employment. GOP requirements: Job offer from a Seychelles-registered employer, employer sponsorship and permit application, proof of qualifications (degrees, certificates), police clearance from your home country, medical examination, and permit fees. Processing time: Several weeks to process. Validity: Up to 12 months, renewable annually. Business activities: Short-term business visits (meetings, conferences, negotiations) are permitted under the Visitor's Permit, but you cannot receive salary from a Seychelles employer or engage in ongoing work activities. Investment options: Entrepreneurs can explore the Seychelles Economic Development Board for business investment permits.
What are the entry requirements for Seychelles?
Seychelles entry requirements are relatively straightforward compared to many destinations. Documentary requirements: Valid passport (for duration of stay), completed Travel Authorization, confirmed accommodation, return flight, proof of sufficient funds ($150/day recommended). Health requirements: Yellow fever vaccination certificate required only if arriving from or transiting through an endemic country. No other mandatory vaccinations. Seychelles is malaria-free. What you cannot bring: Strict biosecurity rules prohibit many items including spearfishing equipment without permit, drone equipment without authorization, and certain food products. Prohibited items: Drugs (severe penalties), firearms, counterfeit goods. Customs allowances: 200 cigarettes, 2 liters of spirits and wine, reasonable personal goods. Important: Immigration officers have discretion to deny entry if requirements are not satisfactorily met.
When is the best time to visit Seychelles?
Seychelles enjoys a pleasant tropical climate year-round, but timing affects your experience. April-May and October-November (Shoulder seasons): Ideal weather with calm seas, excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling, comfortable temperatures around 27-30°C. Transition periods between monsoons with minimal wind. December-March (Northwest monsoon): Warmer and more humid with occasional rain showers. Best time for: Anse Lazio and northwestern beaches (calmer waters), birdwatching on Cousin Island. Higher prices around Christmas/New Year. May-September (Southeast trade winds): Cooler and drier, some beaches experience rougher seas. Best time for: Anse Source d'Argent and southeastern beaches, hiking, whale shark sightings (August-October). Year-round attractions: Giant tortoises, Vallee de Mai, Victoria market, island hopping. Diving conditions: Best visibility March-May and September-November (20-30 meters).
Do children need separate travel authorization for Seychelles?
Yes, every traveler including infants requires their own Seychelles Travel Authorization. There are no family applications — each person needs individual submission. Requirements for children: Valid passport in child's own name, completed Travel Authorization with child's details, parent/guardian completing application on behalf of minors. Additional documentation for children: When a child travels with only one parent, immigration may request: birth certificate showing parental relationship, notarized letter of consent from the absent parent, custody documentation if applicable. When traveling without parents: notarized parental consent from both parents, details of the responsible adult in Seychelles. Fees: Children pay the same Travel Authorization fee as adults. Tip: Complete all family Travel Authorizations together to ensure processing at the same pace. DoVisa allows group applications for families traveling together.
What happens if my entry is denied?
Entry denials are rare for Seychelles given the visa-free policy, but can occur. Common reasons for denial: Insufficient funds to support your stay, no return ticket or onward travel proof, missing or invalid Travel Authorization, previous immigration violations, inadequate accommodation documentation, health concerns or missing required vaccinations. If denied entry: You'll be held at the airport and returned on the next available flight to your origin or another destination. Airlines may charge for return transport. Immigration typically doesn't provide detailed written reasons. Prevention: Ensure all documents are complete before departure — passport validity, accommodation confirmations, return flight, Travel Authorization approval, and evidence of funds. Appeals: Limited recourse at the airport; you may contact the Seychelles Immigration Department after departure to understand the refusal and request reconsideration for future travel. DoVisa support: Our pre-departure document review minimizes denial risk.
Is there a visa fee for Seychelles?
Seychelles does not charge a visa fee — the Visitor's Permit issued on arrival is free of charge. However, there are associated costs: Travel Authorization fee: A small processing fee applies for the mandatory online Travel Authorization (approximately $10-15 USD, subject to change). Extension fees: If you extend your stay beyond the initial permit, fees apply ranging from approximately SCR 500-1500 depending on extension duration. Gainful Occupation Permit: Work permits involve significant fees paid by employers. Tourism levy: Some accommodations include a tourism marketing levy in their rates. DoVisa service: Our fee covers application assistance, document review, 24/7 support, and travel authorization processing — providing peace of mind and reducing denial risk. Value: Compared to destinations requiring expensive visa applications, Seychelles offers excellent value with its free entry policy.
Do I need travel insurance for Seychelles?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended but not legally mandatory for Seychelles entry. Why it's important: Medical evacuation from Seychelles can be extremely expensive due to its remote Indian Ocean location. Healthcare facilities on the islands are limited — serious medical issues often require evacuation to South Africa or other regional hubs. Recommended coverage: Medical expenses and emergency evacuation (minimum $100,000 recommended), trip cancellation and interruption, luggage loss or delay, water sports and diving activities (verify coverage for these activities). Activities to consider: If planning diving, snorkeling, hiking, or water sports, ensure your policy explicitly covers these activities. Standard policies may exclude adventure sports. Cost perspective: Given Seychelles is a premium destination with significant travel investment, comprehensive insurance is sensible protection. DoVisa recommendation: We always advise travelers to obtain adequate insurance — it provides essential protection for your tropical paradise experience.
How do I get from Mahe to other islands?
Mahe to Praslin: • Domestic flight: Air Seychelles operates multiple daily flights (15 minutes, approximately $100-150 return) • Cat Cocos ferry: Fast catamaran service (1 hour, approximately $50-60 one way) operates several times daily. Mahe/Praslin to La Digue: • Inter-island ferry: From Praslin, ferries run frequently to La Digue (15 minutes, approximately $15). No direct ferry from Mahe. • Helicopter: Private charters available for direct Mahe-La Digue transfers. Outer Islands: • Private islands (Fregate, Denis, North Island) offer dedicated transfers for guests, typically by small aircraft or helicopter. • Island Development Company ferries serve some outer islands on schedules. Booking tips: Book ferry and domestic flights in advance during peak season (December-January, European holidays). Cat Cocos can sell out. Consider flight if prone to seasickness — ocean conditions can be rough during southeast monsoon.
What currency should I bring to Seychelles?
The official currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), but Euros are very widely accepted — often preferred by tourist establishments. Recommended: Bring Euros as your primary foreign currency. US Dollars and British Pounds are also accepted at major hotels and tourist venues. Card payments: Visa and Mastercard widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, larger shops. Smaller establishments and local markets prefer cash. ATMs: Available on Mahe (Victoria, airport, major tourist areas) and Praslin. Limited on La Digue — bring sufficient cash. International withdrawal fees apply. Exchange: Banks and exchange bureaus available in Victoria. Hotels offer exchange at less favorable rates. Costs: Seychelles is expensive — budget approximately $150-300+ per day depending on accommodation choices. Restaurant meals SCR 300-800, taxi rides SCR 150-500. Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated — 5-10% at restaurants if service charge not included.
What are the top attractions in Seychelles?
Seychelles offers unique natural wonders found nowhere else on Earth. Beaches: • Anse Source d'Argent (La Digue): Iconic granite boulder beach, consistently ranked among world's best • Anse Lazio (Praslin): Pristine crescent beach with excellent snorkeling • Beau Vallon (Mahe): Most developed beach with water sports and dining. Nature: • Vallee de Mai (Praslin): UNESCO World Heritage Site with prehistoric coco de mer palms • Aldabra Atoll: Remote UNESCO site with world's largest giant tortoise population • Morne Seychellois National Park (Mahe): Hiking through misty mountain forest. Wildlife: • Giant Aldabra tortoises at Curieuse Island, La Digue, and various sanctuaries • Rare endemic birds including Seychelles paradise flycatcher • Sea turtles nesting on several beaches. Victoria: World's smallest capital city with colorful market, botanical gardens, and colonial architecture.