Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean off East Africa, is famed for its granite islands, coral reefs, and lush jungles. Home to iconic sites like Anse Lazio, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, and the capital Victoria, Seychelles offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity.

The country’s geography includes pristine beaches, tropical forests, and rocky outcrops. Seychellois culture combines African, French, and Indian influences, reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine like fish curry and coconut-based dishes. Known for its luxury resorts and warm hospitality, Seychelles is a paradisiacal destination for beach lovers and cultural adventurers.

Documents

Driving

Currency

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Seychelles.
Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Seychelles.

Visa Requirements

Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from all nations can enter Seychelles with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Visa-required countries: No countries require a pre-arranged visa for entry; instead, a Visitor’s Permit is issued on arrival for all travelers, subject to meeting entry conditions (e.g., proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, and return ticket).

Special Entry Provisions

Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Seychelles without additional documentation beyond standard entry requirements.
Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without additional documentation beyond standard entry requirements.
Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without additional documentation beyond standard entry requirements.

ID Card Entry

No countries are permitted to enter Seychelles using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Issued as a Visitor’s Permit on arrival; can be extended up to 3 months with approval.
Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit; must be arranged through immigration authorities prior to or during the visit.

Important Links

Official Seychelles e-Visa application portal: https://www.seychelles.gov.sc/visa (for extensions or special permits)
Visa regime information: https://www.immigration.gov.sc/visa-services
Seychelles Immigration Services: https://www.immigration.gov.sc/

Additional Considerations

Length of stay: Visa-free stays (Visitor’s Permit) are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period, extendable up to 3 months with approval.
Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the Seychelles Immigration and Civil Status Department.
COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health or Seychelles Tourism website.

Driving in Seychelles

Current Toll Roads

As of 2025, Seychelles has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Victoria-La Misère road on Mahé are publicly funded, and tolls are not in place due to the small size of the islands.

Toll Rates and Payment

Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Seychelles Land Transport Division.
Payment Methods:
- Cash: Seychellois Rupee (SCR) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
- Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Seychelles

Drive on the left side of the road (due to historical ties with the British Commonwealth).
Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Speed limits:
- Urban areas: 40 km/h
- Rural roads: 80 km/h
- Highways: 110 km/h (though highways are limited due to island geography).
Road conditions: Generally good on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, with paved roads in urban areas; rural roads can be narrow and winding. Exercise caution, especially during the rainy season (November to March).
International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a Seychellois driver’s license.

Important Considerations

Vignette System: Seychelles has no vignette system, and tolls are not applicable—check locally for any road fees.
Road Safety: Remain vigilant due to narrow roads, sharp bends, and occasional pedestrian traffic or wildlife (e.g., giant tortoises on La Digue). Avoid night driving in less populated areas due to limited lighting.
GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in urban areas like Victoria, but keep an updated physical map as a backup, especially on smaller islands like Praslin and La Digue.
Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, and fire).

Useful Links

Seychelles Land Transport Division: https://www.lta.gov.sc/
Ministry of Transport: https://www.transport.gov.sc/
E-Seychelles Services Portal: https://www.seychelles.gov.sc/

Seychelles Currency

The official currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR).

Key Information

Banknotes: 25, 50, 100, 500 SCR
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25 cents; 1, 5, 10 SCR
Symbol: SR or ₨

Currency Exchange

Exchange services available at banks, Seychelles International Airport (Mahé), and major hotels in Victoria and Beau Vallon.
ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct SCR withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards accepted).

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and smaller islands like La Digue.
Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in Victoria, Praslin, and tourist areas.

Travel Tips

Inform your bank of travel plans.
Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas, as card acceptance is limited outside tourist hubs.
Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Seychelles website: https://www.cbs.sc/exchange-rates

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Seychelles

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Seychelles, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
Alcohol & Smoking:
- Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines or detention.
- Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport (including ferries).
Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or historical issues, though Seychelles is generally relaxed about cultural debates.
LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection are generally tolerated but may attract attention in rural areas.
Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites (e.g., Coast Guard bases), or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products (e.g., turtle shells).
Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

Submit grievances to the Seychelles Tourism Board or local police stations.

Beach Access

Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like Beau Vallon and Anse Royale.

Key Resources

Seychelles Tourism Board: https://www.seychelles.travel/tourist-rights (Tourist rights & complaints).

Seychelles Travel Safety

Seychelles is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Seychelles.

Safety Overview

Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or tourist sites in Victoria and Beau Vallon. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
Solo/Female Travelers: Seychelles is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night, though risks are minimal.

Road Safety

Driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and steep inclines, particularly on Mahé and Praslin.
Avoid night driving in rural areas due to limited lighting and road hazards.
Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

Food/Water Safety:
- Tap water is generally safe in urban areas, but bottled water is recommended in rural zones or on smaller islands.
- Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
Vaccinations:
- Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays).
- Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue and chikungunya (malaria is not present).
Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 905 meters (Morne Seychellois).

Medical Facilities

Hospitals: Private facilities like Seychelles Hospital in Victoria offer good standards. Smaller islands like Praslin and La Digue have limited care.
Pharmacies: Available in Victoria and larger towns; stock essential medications.
Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, especially for remote islands.

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
Ambulance: 151 | Fire: 133 | Police: 999.
Tourist Police (Victoria): +248 428 8000.