Living in the Seychelles: the ultimate expat guide

Seychelles operates one of the world's most welcoming immigration policies with a free permit-on-arrival system for virtually all nationalities. Before departure, you'll simply register on the SEBS electronic system (Seychelles Electronic Border System) for a EUR 10 fee. This administrative flexibility makes Seychelles particularly attractive for international professionals and retirees.

Visitor's Permit: your free entry point

All visitors automatically receive a free Visitor's Permit upon arrival at Seychelles International Airport. This tourist-style permit grants an initial stay of up to 3 months, extendable in 3-month increments for a maximum total duration of 12 months. Requirements are straightforward: a valid passport for your stay duration, return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for your visit.

Only Mauritius and Maldives residents receive specific exemptions (90 days during certain periods), while Kosovo remains the sole territory whose nationals cannot obtain this permit. Extensions are processed through the Department of Immigration and Civil Status before your current permit expires. This system allows you to explore the country, seek employment, or prepare your relocation without upfront commitment.

Gainful Occupation Permit for employment

Working in Seychelles requires a Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP), whether for salaried employment or self-employment. The multi-step process begins with your prospective employer obtaining approval from the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs. They must demonstrate that no qualified Seychellois candidate is available for the position—a requirement strengthened by 2020 pandemic-related reforms.

The GOP application must be submitted at least 10 weeks before work commencement to the Department of Immigration. You'll provide your passport, detailed CV, qualification certificates, medical certificate, and employment contract. Once approved, the permit can be collected within 1-5 days. Within the following month, you must establish a bank guarantee (amount varies by nationality, minimum SCR 20,000 or approximately USD 1,380) and have your contract attested by the Employment Department.

The GOP has an initial 1-year validity with annual renewals. For temporary assignments under 3 months, a short-term GOP covers seasonal work. Processing fees amount to USD 5, plus undisclosed permit fees. Working without a valid GOP carries a SCR 40,000 fine (approximately USD 2,760), and late renewal incurs SCR 400 daily surcharges.

Residence Permit for non-working residents

If you plan to reside in Seychelles without local employment—for retirement or as a remote worker earning foreign income—the Residence Permit provides the appropriate solution. This 5-year permit requires a minimum bank guarantee of SCR 20,000 and expects you to contribute to Seychelles' economic, social, or cultural development.

Fees are substantial: SCR 150,000 (approximately USD 10,350) for the main applicant, SCR 75,000 for a spouse applying simultaneously, and SCR 1,000 per minor child. Processing fees add SCR 1,000. Important: this permit grants no access to free medical services or social security benefits, requiring private health insurance. Full details are available on the Department of Immigration website.

Investor Visa for permanent residence

Investors with substantial capital can obtain permanent residence through the Investor Visa. This option requires a minimum investment of USD 1 million in an existing or new Seychelles business. If you're considering establishing or acquiring a significant business in the archipelago, this route offers the security of permanent status without annual renewals.

For US citizens, note that you remain subject to worldwide taxation and FATCA reporting requirements regardless of Seychelles' territorial tax system. UK citizens should verify their UK tax residence status post-relocation to avoid double taxation. Commonwealth citizens may find certain administrative processes streamlined due to shared legal heritage, though this provides no special visa privileges.

With unemployment dropping to 2.3% in Q2 2025—down 0.7 percentage points from Q1—Seychelles exhibits near-full employment conditions. This rate, among the world's lowest, indicates a tight labor market with opportunities for qualified professionals. Average net monthly salary stands around SCR 11,500 (approximately USD 785 or GBP 615), while average annual salary reaches USD 14,500. These wages appear modest by Western standards, but the territorial tax system and living costs significantly influence real purchasing power.

Key employment sectors

Tourism dominates the Seychelles economy and generates most expatriate positions. Luxury hotels, resorts, fine dining restaurants, dive centers, and travel agencies regularly recruit qualified professionals, particularly multilingual staff. The fisheries and tuna industry sector constitutes the second economic pillar, offering opportunities in processing, logistics, and export operations.

Offshore financial services continue growing despite 2025 transparency reforms. The International Business Companies (Amendment) Act strengthened compliance requirements, but the sector remains attractive for accounting, audit, and legal advisory experts. The blue economy—sustainable marine resource exploitation—represents an emerging sector requiring engineers, marine biologists, and environmental specialists. Agriculture and agro-processing are developing to reduce import dependency.

The Seychelles Investment Board regularly publishes priority sectors for foreign investment. English speakers benefit from the language being official and widely used in business and administration, alongside Creole and French.

Starting a business in Seychelles

Business creation follows a structured yet accessible process. First, submit a Project Memorandum to the Seychelles Investment Board (SIB) for business project review. Once approved, register your company with the Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC) within 28 days of commencing operations. Employee registration must occur within 7 days of hiring.

As a foreign entrepreneur, you'll need a Gainful Occupation Permit for self-employment, following the same procedure as salaried employment. Accounting obligations include maintaining records for 7 years—documents may be kept in English, French, or Creole, facilitating English-speaking entrepreneurs. Annual tax returns must be submitted by March 31st of each fiscal year.

For investment project inquiries, contact SIB directly at investinseychelles@sib.gov.sc or visit their online portal. The organization assists foreign investors with procedures and can facilitate contacts with relevant authorities.

Sources: Seychelles Nation, Numbeo, Statista

Seychelles operates a territorial tax system that stands as a primary attraction for expatriates: only Seychelles-sourced income is taxable. If you receive foreign-sourced income—whether retirement pensions, overseas rental income, dividends, or salaries paid by foreign companies—these amounts escape Seychelles taxation entirely. This feature explains why numerous retirees and remote workers choose the archipelago. Additionally, Seychelles imposes no capital gains tax on any asset type.

Personal Income Tax: progressive rates

Personal Income Tax operates on a three-tier progressive scale. Annual income up to SCR 10,830 (approximately USD 745) is exempt. Income from SCR 10,831 to 83,333 (approximately USD 745 to 5,750) faces a 15% rate. Above SCR 83,333, the marginal rate reaches 30%. This progressive system was introduced in 2025, replacing the previous flat 15% rate as part of tax equity reforms.

For employees, employers withhold tax at source through the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system. Self-employed individuals and professionals must make quarterly advance payments and reconcile during annual filing. The exemption threshold ensures low earners pay no tax, while the 30% top marginal rate remains moderate compared to rates in the UK (45%), US (37% federal plus state), Canada (up to 53% combined), or Australia (45%).

Corporate Social Responsibility Tax: business taxation

Seychelles companies pay Corporate Social Responsibility Tax (CSR), a profit-based tax with rates varying by sector. The standard rate stands at 25% for most businesses. Holding companies benefit from a reduced 12.5% rate. Conversely, petroleum, gas, and telecom sector companies face an elevated 33% rate. Companies with annual turnover below SCR 1 million may opt for a simplified flat fee of SCR 1,500, easing compliance for small structures.

This CSR tax differs from standard corporate income tax through its social purpose: revenue partially funds social programs and community development directly. Companies must file and pay CSR by March 31st following fiscal year-end.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

Value Added Tax applies at a standard 15% rate on most goods and services. Certain essentials receive exemptions, notably basic food products, medical services, and education. Businesses with annual turnover exceeding SCR 2 million (approximately USD 138,000) must register for VAT. Below this threshold, registration remains optional but may prove advantageous for recovering VAT on business purchases.

The Seychelles VAT regime requires monthly or quarterly returns depending on business volume. Exporting companies can benefit from zero-rating on international sales while recovering input VAT—a standard mechanism favoring exports.

Additional taxes and contributions

Employers pay a Social Security Contribution calculated at 3.5% of gross salary, capped at a monthly ceiling of SCR 834 (approximately USD 58). Employees contribute at the same rate with identical ceilings. This contribution funds the local social security system, though Residence Permit holders cannot access it.

The 2025 Budget eliminated the 15% withholding tax on technical and digital services provided by non-residents, simplifying taxation for businesses engaging foreign service providers. Import duties and customs taxes vary significantly by product—certain essentials are exempt while luxury goods face high duties.

For US citizens, understand that you remain subject to worldwide income taxation and FATCA reporting requirements regardless of residing in Seychelles. The IRS requires annual tax returns and disclosure of foreign financial accounts exceeding USD 10,000. Consult a US tax advisor specializing in expatriate taxation. UK citizens should clarify their UK tax residence status to avoid complications—generally, spending fewer than 16 days annually in the UK secures non-resident status. The Seychelles Revenue Commission provides detailed guides on their official website.

Seychelles operates a universal public healthcare system offering free care to all Seychellois citizens and permanent residents. However, expatriates holding Visitor's Permits, GOPs, or Residence Permits generally lack access to these free services, except for life-threatening emergencies. International health insurance becomes essential before relocation, unless your employer provides coverage.

Medical infrastructure

The country's main facility is Seychelles Hospital in Victoria on Mahé island. This reference hospital has 404 beds and provides most basic medical services plus certain specialties. A major new hospital project is under development to modernize infrastructure with substantial government investment. The current facility handles general consultations, emergency care, routine surgery, and obstetrics.

Additionally, the country operates seven regional health centers distributed across the three main islands: five on Mahé, one at Baie Sainte Anne on Praslin, and one on La Digue. These centers provide general practice consultations, nursing care, vaccinations, and chronic disease monitoring. For highly specialized care unavailable in Seychelles—neurosurgery, interventional cardiology, certain cancers—medical evacuations typically route to Mauritius, India, or South Africa.

Private health insurance

Several international insurers offer coverage suited to Seychelles expatriates. Monthly premiums vary considerably by age, health status, and coverage extent, ranging from USD 200 to 650 per month for comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation. Verify your policy covers medical evacuations to third countries, as this benefit can represent tens of thousands of dollars in severe emergencies.

Some employers, particularly in upscale hospitality and financial services, include international health insurance in compensation packages. Negotiate this point systematically during hiring, as employers often secure advantageous group rates. Victoria's private clinics accept most international insurance and offer direct billing with major insurers.

Healthcare considerations for different nationalities

UK citizens should note that NHS coverage ceases after leaving the UK for permanent residence abroad. European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) don't apply in Seychelles. Consider comprehensive international coverage from providers like Cigna Global, Allianz Care, or Bupa Global, which are familiar to UK expatriates and offer networks including Seychelles.

US citizens can explore international health insurance from providers like GeoBlue (partnered with Blue Cross Blue Shield) or IMG Global. Medicare generally doesn't cover services outside the US, and many US domestic health plans provide limited or no coverage abroad. Australian expatriates should verify whether their private health insurance includes international coverage or requires supplementation.

Pharmacies remain well-stocked in Victoria and tourist areas of Mahé and Praslin, but imported medications cost considerably. If you follow chronic treatment, bring sufficient stock or verify local availability of your medications. Certain specific treatments may require importation on medical prescription.

The Seychelles education system provides free, compulsory public education from ages 6 to 16, structured in three cycles: Prathom (primary), Sekonner (lower secondary), and Post-Sekonner (upper secondary). Instruction occurs primarily in Creole during early years, with gradual introduction of English and French. English serves as the primary medium of instruction from secondary level onwards, facilitating integration for English-speaking children.

International schools for expatriate families

For expatriate families seeking an international curriculum, International School Seychelles (ISS) serves as the primary institution. Located on Mahé, this school follows the British National Curriculum and prepares students for IGCSE and A-Level examinations, equivalent to high school graduation. ISS accommodates students aged 2 to 18 and provides a multicultural environment with qualified teachers, predominantly British.

Tuition fees for the 2025 academic year vary by level: expect between USD 6,500 and 15,500 annually depending on the child's age, plus registration fees and extracurricular activities. The school operates on the British calendar with three terms from September to July. Partial scholarships exist for families facing financial difficulty, assessed on application. Find complete practical information and detailed fee schedules on the ISS website.

The Independent School, another private institution on Mahé, also offers an international curriculum with slightly lower fees. It provides an interesting alternative for families seeking quality education at reduced cost. Some families opt for distance learning through online programs from their home countries—US families might use accredited online schools, UK families could consider British distance learning programs, or Australian families might access Australian correspondence schools. This option requires strong parental involvement and organization.

Local public system for full immersion

If you consider enrolling your children in the Seychelles public system, they'll benefit from total immersion in local culture while developing trilingualism (Creole, English, French). Public education delivers excellent results with a national literacy rate of 96.2%. Public schools follow the Seychelles Qualifications Authority (SQA) curriculum, preparing for locally recognized examinations.

Integration in the local system works particularly well for young children, who quickly acquire Creole and adapt to local pedagogy. For adolescents arriving mid-education, transition may prove more challenging, especially if their English proficiency is limited. In all cases, small class sizes and supportive supervision facilitate adaptation.

For higher education, Seychelles operates a University of Seychelles offering undergraduate programs in several fields. Most Seychellois students pursuing advanced degrees study abroad, particularly in the UK, Australia, India, or South Africa through government scholarship programs. The British higher education system remains familiar to many due to Commonwealth ties, while American students would find the transition to local higher education relatively smooth given English instruction.

The Seychelles property market features limited supply and elevated prices—direct consequences of restricted habitable land and strong tourist demand. Expatriates typically rent their accommodation, as property acquisition faces strict restrictions for non-citizens. Most rentals concentrate on Mahé, hosting the capital Victoria, international airport, and primary employment opportunities.

Property types and price ranges

Studios and one-bedroom apartments in standard residential areas of Mahé cost between USD 520 and 1,040 monthly. These properties typically sit inland from the coast in buildings without particular amenities. For a two-bedroom apartment, budget USD 1,040 to 1,950 monthly, depending on location and features (air conditioning, parking, beach proximity).

Three-bedroom houses or villas command rents of USD 1,560 to 3,250 monthly, or more in sought-after neighborhoods or gated communities with services. Furnished properties, particularly sought by expatriates on short-term assignments, typically cost 20-30% more than unfurnished rentals. Utilities (water, electricity, internet) add to rent and can represent USD 130-260 additional depending on consumption.

Preferred neighborhoods and residential areas

Eden Island, a premium property development near Victoria, constitutes the most coveted neighborhood for affluent expatriates. This artificial island offers apartments and villas with private marina, pools, restaurants, and 24/7 security. Rents start at USD 2,600 monthly for a two-bedroom and easily exceed USD 5,200 for a villa. The luxurious setting and substantial international community justify these rates for those with budgets to match.

Beau Vallon, on Mahé's northwest coast, offers an excellent balance between Victoria proximity (15 minutes) and beachside setting. This tourist area features a beautiful beach, numerous restaurants and shops, and a weekly local market. Rents range from USD 1,170 to 2,600 depending on standard. Anse Royale, on the east coast, attracts families with its quieter atmosphere and slightly lower prices (USD 910 to 1,950 for a three-bedroom).

In Victoria itself, modern apartments remain scarce and expensive despite no beach access. The advantage lies in proximity to shops, administrative services, and educational facilities. Residential neighborhoods of Roche Caiman and Mont Fleuri, a few kilometers from Victoria, offer family housing at more accessible rates (USD 1,040 to 1,820 for a three-bedroom).

Practical advice and procedures

Property searches occur primarily through local real estate agencies, Facebook groups dedicated to expatriates, or word-of-mouth. Residential leases typically follow one-year terms, renewable, with payment of first month plus deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent. Unlike UK deposit protection schemes or similar safeguards in other countries, deposits lack specific legal protection—photograph the property thoroughly before move-in.

Electricity operates at 240V with British-style plugs (Type G). If importing electrical appliances from the US, Canada, or Australia, you'll need voltage converters and adapters. Fiber optic internet is developing in Mahé's urban areas, offering adequate speeds for remote work (20-100 Mbps depending on provider). Subscriptions cost between USD 65 and 130 monthly depending on chosen speed.

For property acquisition, foreigners can only purchase in designated Integrated Development Scheme (IDS) zones, typically very high-end residences with imposed minimum prices (often USD 300,000 and above). This option suits primarily wealthy buyers considering a luxury second home. For available properties information, consult sites like My Property Seychelles.

Relocating to Seychelles from overseas requires meticulous organization given the distance and island-specific considerations. Most expatriates ship personal effects by sea container—more economical than air freight but requiring 6-8 weeks between dispatch and receipt. Here's a detailed checklist to prepare your Seychelles installation.

Complete moving checklist

1. 3-6 months before departure: Secure your job offer or plan your relocation. Contact multiple international moving companies for quotes. Verify passport validity (yours and family members') and renew if necessary.
2. 2-3 months before: Purchase international health insurance. Book flights and temporary accommodation for initial weeks (hotel or short-term rental). Complete SEBS online registration. Begin sorting belongings and planning what to ship.
3. 1-2 months before: Book your sea freight and prepare detailed inventory of goods. Compile your GOP or Residence Permit application with all required documents. Cancel utilities subscriptions (electricity, internet, phone) in your home country. Arrange bank account closure or transfer if needed.
4. 2-4 weeks before: Visit your doctor for health assessment and obtain current prescriptions. Get necessary vaccinations (yellow fever mandatory if arriving from endemic area, other vaccines recommended). Stock 3-6 months of medication if following chronic treatment. Have diplomas and official documents legalized or apostilled if your employer requires.
5. 1 week before: Confirm Seychelles temporary accommodation. Pack carry-on luggage with essentials for initial weeks (light clothing, swimwear, important documents, small medical kit, electrical adapters). Notify your bank of relocation to prevent card blocking. Exchange some currency to Seychelles rupees or arrange euros/dollars.
6. Upon arrival (first week): Collect your Visitor's Permit at Seychelles International Airport. Check into temporary accommodation. Activate a local SIM card (operators: Airtel, Cable & Wireless). Begin permanent accommodation search if not pre-arranged.
7. First weeks: Submit your GOP or Residence Permit application to the Department of Immigration. Open a local bank account (present passport, address proof, and employment contract). Enroll children in school if applicable. Explore your neighborhood and locate essential shops (supermarkets, pharmacies, health centers).
8. First month: Sign your rental lease and move into permanent accommodation. Establish utility connections (electricity, water, internet). Receive your shipping container and verify contents condition. Establish your GOP bank guarantee within the month following approval.
9. First months: Obtain your local driving license if planning to purchase or rent a vehicle (present international license and pass test if required). Join expatriate groups on social media to build your social network. Explore different islands and identify favorite spots for weekends.
10. Tax considerations by nationality: US citizens must maintain IRS filing obligations regardless of foreign residence and report foreign financial accounts exceeding USD 10,000 (FBAR). UK citizens should complete a P85 form to notify HMRC of leaving the UK and establish non-resident status. Canadians should file a departure tax return and notify CRA of emigration. Australians should inform the ATO of ceasing Australian tax residency.
11. Cultural adaptation: Learn basic Creole phrases to facilitate integration (hello = bonzour, thank you = mersi, goodbye = orevwar). Respect local customs: proper attire in town (no swimwear off beaches), consistent politeness and smiling. Participate in community events and local festivals to immerse in Seychellois culture.

Sea freight represents a significant investment (expect USD 3,900 to 7,800 for a 20-foot container depending on origin), but allows transporting furniture, appliances, and personal effects. Prioritize movers specializing in island destinations who understand Seychelles customs formalities. Customs duties apply on certain goods, with exemptions for justified personal effects.

Seychelles offers an unparalleled natural playground for outdoor activity enthusiasts, divers, and hikers. The archipelago hosts two UNESCO World Heritage sites and ranks among the world's premier destinations for marine wildlife observation. Beyond paradisiacal beaches, the country presents rich Creole culture blending African, Asian, and European influences.

Diving and water sports

The Indian Ocean's crystal waters make Seychelles a world-class diving destination. Top-rated sites include Shark Bank off Mahé, where you'll encounter seasonal whale sharks and manta rays, and Beau Vallon's coral reefs accessible even to beginners. Praslin island offers pristine spots like Anse Lazio, while outer islands like Aldabra (cruise-only access) reveal virgin underwater landscapes.

PADI-certified dive centers offer introductory dives (around USD 90), complete certifications (Open Water from USD 520), and trips for certified divers. Snorkeling can be enjoyed free from most beaches, notably at Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue, considered one of the world's most beautiful beaches with its sculptural granite boulders.

Sailing, sea kayaking, and paddleboarding complete the water sports offering. Numerous operators organize island-hopping excursions, discovering secluded coves and uninhabited islets. Sport fishing also attracts enthusiasts, with trips targeting marlins, tunas, and mahi-mahi.

Hiking and national park exploration

Morne Seychellois National Park, covering 20% of Mahé island, offers a network of hiking trails through primary tropical forest. The trail to Morne Seychellois summit (905 meters) rewards hikers with panoramic views across the entire archipelago—allow 3-4 hours round-trip for moderate difficulty. Other easier trails like Copolia Trail (45 minutes) suit families.

On Praslin, the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai protects a prehistoric forest harboring the famous coco-de-mer, endemic palm with giant nuts weighing up to 55 pounds. This nature reserve can be explored in 1-2 hours on developed trails, with possible sightings of the endangered Seychelles black parrot. Entry costs around USD 26.

Cultural life and events

Victoria, though a small capital, concentrates most cultural offerings. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, open Monday to Saturday, forms the city's beating heart with stalls of fresh fish, tropical fruits, spices, and local crafts. The small National Museum of History traces the archipelago's past from early explorers through 1976 independence.

The annual calendar includes several colorful festivals. The Victoria International Carnival in April transforms the capital into a giant parade of costumes and Creole music. The Kreol Festival in October celebrates Creole culture with concerts, gastronomy, and exhibitions. SUBIOS (Underwater Festival) in November gathers diving enthusiasts worldwide with underwater film screenings and conferences.

Creole gastronomy deserves thorough exploration: try fish curry with coconut milk, shark chutney (fermented shark, local specialty), bouchons (Chinese-influenced steamed dumplings), and ladob (dessert with plantain and sweet potato in coconut milk). Beau Vallon and Eden Island restaurants offer varied dining from grilled fish to international cuisines.

For nightlife, maintain modest expectations: Seychelles doesn't rival major party destinations. A few bars and clubs in Victoria and Beau Vallon animate weekends with Creole music, reggae, and Mauritian sega. The atmosphere remains family-friendly and relaxed, reflecting the island lifestyle pace.

Seychelles ranks among Africa's most expensive destinations—a direct consequence of insularity and massive import dependency. Food prices, rents, and services often align with European standards or exceed them for certain products. The heavily dollarized tourism sector economy also influences rates, particularly in visitor-frequented areas. Realistic budget planning is essential before relocation.

Current Numbeo data from June-September 2025 allows establishing typical monthly budgets. These estimates include rent, food, transportation, basic services, and minimal leisure, excluding exceptional expenses like vacations or initial accommodation equipment. Listed prices correspond to standard living—neither luxurious nor extremely economical.

Budget for a single person

A single expatriate living in Seychelles in a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center can expect the following monthly expenses:

Source: Numbeo Seychelles (data June-September 2025)

Add to this baseline budget your international health insurance (USD 200 to 650 monthly), mobile phone (USD 26 to 52), banking fees, and variable personal expenses. A single person needs minimum USD 1,950 net monthly to live comfortably, or USD 2,600 for a more comfortable lifestyle including regular dining out and water sports activities.

Budget for a family of four

A family with two school-age children requires substantially higher budget, particularly due to larger accommodation and school fees if choosing an international school:

Source: Numbeo Seychelles (data June-September 2025)

These amounts exclude family health insurance (USD 390 to 1,040 monthly for four people), potential childcare for young children, extracurricular activities, or savings. An expatriate family in Seychelles needs monthly net income of at least USD 6,500 to 7,800 to live comfortably with children in international school.

Reference prices

To refine your budget, here are common rates (Numbeo 2025 data): an inexpensive restaurant meal costs USD 17, cappuccino USD 5, one liter of milk USD 1.95, dozen eggs USD 3.90, one kilo of chicken USD 14.30, one liter of gasoline USD 1.62. European-imported products (cheeses, wines, charcuterie) display prices two to three times higher than home country rates. Local fruits and vegetables remain affordable at markets, while processed products cost considerably.

Independent vehicle rental runs USD 52-78 daily for a small car, cheaper monthly (USD 1,040-1,560). Purchasing a used vehicle starts around USD 10,400 for an older model. Public transport (public buses) remains very economical at under USD 1.30 per trip, but limited schedules and coverage make cars nearly essential for families or those living outside Victoria.