Do I need a visa for SEYCHELLES?

Seychelles is an archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean comprising 115 islands, located northeast of Madagascar. The country operates one of the world’s most open visa policies: all nationalities are granted a free Visitor’s Permit on arrival for up to 3 months, making Seychelles one of only a handful of countries with universal visa-free access. Despite this openness, Seychelles has introduced the Seychelles Electronic Border System (SEBS) ETA, which is mandatory for all visitors before arrival.

2. Universal Visa-Free Policy

Every foreign national — regardless of passport — is entitled to a free Visitor’s Permit on arrival in Seychelles. This permit is issued at the port of entry and is valid for up to 3 months. No visa application is required in advance. However, the SEBS Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is mandatory for all visitors.

Universal Visitor’s Permit — Key Facts • Available to ALL nationalities without exception • Issued free of charge on arrival • Valid for up to 3 months (duration may vary by country — see below) • Exception: Kosovo — entry and transit refused • SEBS ETA mandatory for all visitors (EUR 10 fee) • Issued at all international entry ports: Seychelles International Airport (Mahe), other island ports

3. SEBS Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Since the introduction of the Seychelles Electronic Border System (SEBS), all visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel. The ETA is mandatory and costs EUR 10. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers without a valid ETA.

SEBS ETA Details • Mandatory for ALL nationalities • Fee: EUR 10 per person • Apply online at the official Seychelles immigration portal • Recommended to apply at least 72 hours before travel • ETA linked to passport — non-transferable • Must be presented at check-in and on arrival

4. Length of Stay by Nationality

While all nationalities receive a Visitor’s Permit on arrival, the maximum initial duration varies depending on bilateral agreements. The following table summarises the stay provisions by country group.

Country / GroupPermitted Stay
All EU/EEA member states, United KingdomUp to 90 days
Brazil, Singapore, and other bilateral partnersUp to 90 days
Cape Verde, Sri LankaUp to 60 days
China, Malaysia, Russia, and selected othersUp to 30 days
Cambodia, Oman, and selected othersUp to 14 days
All other nationalities (universal default)Up to 30 days (extendable)
KosovoEntry and transit REFUSED

5. Visa Extension

Visitors may apply for an extension of their Visitor’s Permit through the Seychelles Immigration Department. Extensions are considered on a case-by-case basis. The maximum cumulative stay permitted per year may be subject to limits. Overstaying without authorisation is a violation of Seychellois immigration law and may result in fines or deportation.

6. General Entry Requirements

Requirements for All Visitors • Valid SEBS ETA obtained before travel (EUR 10) • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity recommended) • Return or onward ticket • Proof of sufficient funds for duration of stay • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or confirmed address) • Health insurance recommended • No visa required — Visitor’s Permit issued free on arrival

7. Entry Points

International Entry Points • Seychelles International Airport (Victoria, Mahe Island) — primary air gateway • Port Victoria (cruise ships and chartered vessels) • Other island ports may be available for private yachts/vessels with prior clearance

8. Note on Kosovo

Kosovo passport holders are refused entry and transit in Seychelles. This is consistent with Seychelles’ non-recognition of Kosovo as an independent state. Holders of Kosovo passports will be denied a Visitor’s Permit and refused entry at all Seychellois ports.