By the end of this guide you’ll understand exactly who needs a visitor’s permit, how to get one on arrival, what documents you must carry, how to extend your stay—and even a few rarely mentioned rules that can trip you up at immigration.

What Is a Visitor’s Permit?

A visitor’s permit is your legal ticket for short-term stays in Seychelles. You can obtain one on arrival—no preapproved visas are needed for most nationalities, according to the Seychelles government’s official visitor information.
– Valid for up to three months initially
– Can be renewed in-country to total stays of up to 12 months
– Cannot be used for paid work or business activities

Who Qualifies?

You’re eligible if your trip purpose is:
– Holiday
– Visiting friends or family
– Informal business meetings (no paid employment)

Entry Requirements: What to Bring

When you arrive at Seychelles International Airport, have these in hand:
1. Passport (valid at least six months beyond your departure date)
2. Return or onward ticket
3. Proof of prepaid accommodation
4. Evidence of sufficient funds (commonly defined as USD 150 per day), as noted in the U.S. Department of State’s country information for Seychelles
5. Invitation letter, if you’ll stay with a host (Government of Canada guidance on invitation letters)

“Always double-check your documentation two days before departure—Seychelles takes arrivals very seriously.”
– Seychelles Immigration Office guide

Proof of Funds

Authorities generally expect around USD 150 per day in cash, traveler’s cheques, or a recent bank statement. This requirement helps ensure you can cover living expenses without needing employment that your permit does not allow.

Invitation Letter

If a Seychelles resident hosts you, they should provide a signed invitation stating your relationship, address, and intended length of stay, per the Government of Canada’s travel advice.

Health & Safety Clearances

Beyond routine health screenings, the Ministry of Health can impose special entry authorizations during public-health events. Always check the latest notices on the Ministry of Health’s website before you travel to confirm any additional requirements or vaccinations.

Seychelles Electronic Border System (SEBS)

Before you board your flight, complete your pre-arrival form via the Seychelles Electronic Border System (SEBS). Registration is free at the official SEBS portal: seychelles.govtas.com. Failure to register online may result in a penalty fee upon arrival or even denied entry.

Extending Your Stay

You may stay up to 12 months total, but after your first three-month permit you must apply for an extension.

How to extend:
1. Visit Independence House in Victoria, Mahé
2. Submit your current permit, passport, and proof of funds
3. Pay the extension fee (SCR 5,000 per three-month block), as outlined on seychelles-visa.com’s extension guide
4. Receive your new stamp—no need to return home

Things You Cannot Do

Your visitor’s permit bars you from:
– Taking paid employment
– Enrolling in formal study programs
– Holding any permit from an unrecognized territory
– Being classified as a “prohibited immigrant” under the Immigration Act, as defined in the official Immigration Act text

A prohibited immigrant is anyone the Minister of Immigration has deemed inadmissible—often for prior immigration violations or criminal reasons.

Ready to Go?

Armed with this information you can arrive stress-free, enjoy up to a year in paradise, and avoid the pitfalls others overlook. Pack your documents, complete SEBS, and look forward to azure waters and granitic shores—Seychelles is waiting for you.

Safe Travels to the Islands!