seychelles tourist visa for indian

Seychelles Visa for Indians - Tourist Visa Application & Conditions

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Seychelles Visa on Arrival - Requirements

Type of Visa - Visa on Arrival  Duration of Visa - Maximum of 30 Days Conditions - Onward and Return Tickets, Fund of USD 150 per person per day for a span of 30 days, Proof of Accomodation. 

Entering Seychelles for Indian Citizens - Seychelles Visa Procedures

Seychelles tourist visa fees for indian , conditions for entry into seychelles.

The person visiting Seychelles isn't a prohibited immigrant The person visiting Seychelles is not a resident of Seychelles The person visiting Seychelles holds a valid return or onward ticket out of Seychelles The person visiting Seychelles have confirmed accommodation in Seychelles The person visiting Seychelles have sufficient funds to support their stay in Seychelles, i.e. have enough money to fund their stay in Seychelles. The minimum amount is around USD 50 or equivalent per day of the trip.

Documents Required

Confirmed air ticket Two passport-sized photographs Original valid passport Adequate funds for the span of the stay in Seychelles Proof of hotel accommodation or a letter of invitation if visiting friends, family or company

This post was published by Abhijit Sreepada

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Seychelles Visa For Indian: Everything You Need To Know

The Republic of Seychelles is currently at the top of many Indian’s wish lists for a vacation because of its picture-perfect blue waters and smooth white sands.

Seychelles is a fantastical location that frequently appears in films. There are 115 islands in this island nation, along with several beaches, natural areas, and coral reefs. The region is famous for attracting families, honeymooners, and backpackers because it offers several significant tourist attractions.

Understanding the Seychelles visa requirements is essential if visiting Seychelles is on your travel bucket list and you want to go there soon. Moreover, you will need to get travel insurance if you want to relax and take advantage of everything that this magnificent country has to offer.

For Indians who are thinking about visiting the Republic of Seychelles, there is excellent news. It’s a country without visas! How nice does that sound now? This suggests that visitors from India can visit the Seychelles without a visa. Upon admission into the Republic of Seychelles, a valid Indian passport is stamped with the consent of the tourist or traveller, provided that certain prerequisites are fulfilled. The validity of this permission is three months from the date of arrival.

Indian Citizens Seychelles Visa

Considering that the Seychelles do not require visas, Indian nationals visiting the country do not have to obtain one. Therefore, there are no fees for Indian people seeking a tourist visa to the Seychelles. Nonetheless, to enter the Seychelles, travellers must provide a valid passport along with several other travel documents approved by the Republic of Seychelles.

For Indian tourists coming to visit family and friends, attend a business conference, or go on vacation, these documents are required to issue a Visitor’s Permit. The Seychelles Department of Immigration issues it to an Indian visitor as soon as they arrive at the Seychelles International Airport. This permit has a 3-year validity period.

Types of Seychelles Visas

In general, Indian passport holders can apply for Seychelles visa under one of three categories:

Tourist Visa for the Seychelles

Indian nationals who want to travel to the Republic of Seychelles to see friends and family or for leisure are granted a tourist visa upon arrival. On a tourist visa, they are not allowed to work in the Seychelles. The ability to obtain a Seychelles tourist visa on arrival is one of its key benefits; this eliminates the need for you to go through a lengthy application process and wait several weeks for your visa. 

Work Visa for the Seychelles

Indian nationals who want to go to the Republic of Seychelles for business or work purposes are eligible for this type of visa. Other subcategories of this specific visa include sports, culture, photography, and other uses.

Transit Visa for the Seychelles

Indian nationals who are visiting the Republic of Seychelles for a few days and are awaiting transit out of the country to visit another country are granted a Seychelles transit visa. 

Essential Conditions for Entering the Republic of Seychelles

You only need a valid Indian passport, the same as you would expect when travelling abroad. Validity of your passport is required until the end of your trip to the Seychelles or until you return home. To be eligible for a visitor’s permit, you need to fulfil the following requirements:

• Must possess a current passport
• Maintain good health and a respectable moral code
• A basic knowledge of your travel schedule and the information on your lodging that you can provide at the immigration counter if needed
• Tickets for a return or subsequent flight to ensure that you go back to your home country or your intended destination as soon as your visitor’s permission expires
• Respect the nation’s moral norms and basic guidelines
• Sufficient funds (at least $150) to cover your stay in the Republic of the Seychelles

Documents Required for a Visit Permit to the Seychelles

The following list contains all of the documentation that Seychelles immigration officers may want, which you must show when you arrive in Seychelles:

• Tickets for confirmed flights
• Two passport-sized pictures
• Authentic Indian passport
• Enough money to last the duration of your visit to the Republic of the Seychelles
• You need to bring an invitation letter or evidence of your hotel reservation if you are visiting family, friends, or business.

How to Apply for a Seychelles Visa for Indians

As there is nothing special to perform other than to ensure that all the conditions are met, the procedure itself is rather simple.

To get a Visitor’s Permit, anyone planning to travel to the Republic of Seychelles for leisure, business, or to see family and friends must fulfil the following requirements:

• Must not be an immigrant who is prohibited
• Must not hold legitimate permission allowing them to stay in the Seychelles
• Must have secured housing and adequate cash for the stay
• When visiting the Seychelles, a valid return ticket is required. 

A GOP (Gainful Occupation Permit), often known as a Work Permit, is required for anyone intending to travel to the Republic of Seychelles for work. This document permits the person to work as an employee or as a self-employed contractor in the Seychelles.

If the worker is self-employed, the application should be completed by the prospective employer or the worker at least ten weeks prior to the start of work. Without obtaining a GOP, a foreign national is unable to enter the country with the intention of employment.

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• Visitors Permit

A Visa is not required for visitors regardless of the nationality of the person.

A visitor’s permit is issued on arrival in Seychelles to a person who comes for the purpose of holiday, pleasure, business, visit friends or family and who –

• is not a prohibited immigrant;
• is not the holder of a valid permit which entitles the holder to reside in Seychelles.
• holds a valid return or onward ticket for duration of visit;
• has confirmed accommodation;
• has sufficient funds for duration of the stay.

Immigration and Civil Status

The Seychelles Immigration maintains an effective Border Control, Assess claims of citizenship of Seychelles and reponsible for the issuance of passports to citizens of Seychelles.

Image Source Visitors travelling to Seychelles do not require a visa, regardless of his/her nationality due to the fact that its a visa-free access country. However, in order to enter into the island nation a visitor must possess a valid passport and other travel documents as recognized by the Republic of Seychelles. These documents are required to issue a Visitor’s Permit to travelers visiting for the purpose of a holiday, visiting friends or attending any business meeting. Therefore, no Seychelles tourist visa fees for Indian will be required as such. It is issued by the Seychelles Department of Immigration when a visitor arrives at the Seychelles International Airport. and is valid for the first month of a visitor’s stay in nation.

Must Read: Witness The Best Of Nature At These 10 Seychelles National Parks

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Eligibility Criteria For Seychelles Visitor’s Permit

Image Source To be eligible for Seychelles Visitor’s Permit you will have to meet the following criteria:

1. You must have a valid passport and the validity should cover the duration of your entire stay in Seychelles, that is, from the day you enter the nation till your day of exit and at least 90 days after your planned departure date from Seychelles. 2. Two unused pages of your passport are required. 3. You must not have a criminal record or refused entry into Seychelles previously. 4. You must confirm accommodation and hold a valid return ticket or ticket for the onward journey for the duration of the visit 5. Sufficient fund for the duration of the stay is a must(minimum USD 150)

Suggested Read: Curieuse Marine National Park: A Tiny Granitic Island In The Seychelles

Extension Of Seychelles Visitor’s Permit

Image Source We already learnt that the visitor’s permit is valid for the first month of your visit in Seychelles. It can be extended for up to three months from the date of issue in any case to a maximum period of twelve months. For the same to happen, the visitor should meet the following criteria:

1. The person is not a prohibited immigrant and has applied for the permit’s renewal at least one week before its expiry. 2. The person has enough funds to support himself/herself for the duration of the stay and holds a valid open return ticket

Required Fees for Seychelles Visitor’s Permit: The visitor’s permit is issued free of charge for the first three months, after which INR 23,249.25 is charged as the Seychelles tourist visa fees for Indian for extension covering each period of three months or any part of that.

Please note that the visitor’s permit extension fee is subject to change at any time depending on the current conversion rates into India currency which may change.

Suggested Read: Silhouette Island: A Pristine & Stunning Isle Of Seychelles

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Dos And Don’ts for Seychelles Visitors

Image Source It is very important to remember the following do’s and don’ts before you start packing your bags for your journey to Seychelles.

1. Always remember to check with your airline in case you have connecting flights overseas as part of your journey. The reason being you will require a separate transit visa for those countries that you pass en route to your destination.

1. You don’t need to apply for the visitor’s permit if you are a holder of a valid permit. The valid permit makes you eligible to reside in Seychelles.

Suggested Read: Praslin Island: A Picturesque Emerald Of The Seychelles

Steps To Follow To Apply For Seychelles Visa

Image Source Go well through the Seychelles Immigration Information, in case you require a visa to enter Seychelles. It is mandatory to apply for Seychelles visa at least one month prior to your planned visit to the nation. Once you are confident of all the details regarding the application, you can proceed with the following steps:

1. Download the visa application form

The first step to applying for visa application is to obtain the visa application form. You can simply download the form from the internet.

2. Filling the visa application form

Next step is to fill out the details required in the application form diligently. Your signature is a must on your completed application form.

3. Submit your visa application form

Finally, you need to send your completed visa application form along with your passport to the below-mentioned address along with courier charges or “Freight Collect” for either DHL or FEDEX for the return of your passport:

Director General of Immigration, Department of Immigration Independence House PO Box 430, Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles Email

Further Read: 9 Spots Famous For Scuba Diving In Seychelles

The above-mentioned details regarding the Seychelles Visa For Indians will provide you with a clearer understanding regarding the requirements and travelling to this awesome destination. So wait no longer, book your trip to Seychelles and visit Earth’s own Paradise in Seychelles. There is no long and expensive visa procedure, you just need to go out there and make some amazing memories.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seychelles Visa For Indians

Is Seychelles visa free for Nigeria?

The passport holder of Nigeria do no need the visa to Seychelles if they’re planning to stay here for 30 days. However. they do need to show the permit as they’ll arrive in Seychelles.

Is Seychelles visa free?

The country of Seychelles is visa free and no visas are required from you if you’re traveling to this country.

Do Indian passport need visa for Seychelles?

For maximum 30 days, you can travel in the country of Seychelles without having to be asked for visa, as it is a visa-free country.

How can I go to Seychelles from India?

There is a nonstop flight from India to Seychelles and it takes about 4 hours to travel there. SEZ airport is located near the capital city of Victoria and this is the hub of Air Seychelles. Travelers can also fly to Seychelles via other airlines like Emirates, Jet Airways, SriLankan, and Kenya Airways to reach Seychelles from India.

Do we require a visa for Seychelles?

There are travel and visa rules for visitors traveling to Seychelles. Though a visa is not required to enter Seychelles, visitors should, however, have a valid passport and other valid travel documents with them that are recognized by the Seychelles government to gain entry.

How do I get a Seychelles visa?

There needs to be a valid passport on your arrival date in Seychelles and also on the departure date. The passport must have at least two blank pages, a copy of a valid return or onward ticket needs to be there, proof of confirmed accommodation and the contact details of where you can be reached during the stay in Seychelles.

Is Seychelles visa-free for Indian citizens?

The Seychelles Visa for Indians is a bit different yet the same as the rest. The American citizens are eligible for a lot of countries to travel visa-free and India too has some list of countries, Seychelles is one of them.

Is Seychelles safe for honeymoon?

Well, you may think of Seychelles as an adult only place and it is one of the favorite destinations for honeymoon. It has a lot of exclusive resorts and couples everywhere and there is plenty of family-friendly places to stay on the island. You are going to be safe in this country.

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Seychelles Visa for Indians

Indians visiting Seychelles for tourism do not require a visa. They are, however, required to furnish a “Digital Travel Authorization” at https://seychelles.govtas.com/ . The Travel Authorization requirement did not exist pre-COVID.

A visitor’s permit is issued on arrival in Seychelles to travellers upon furnishing the following : 

• Proof of accommodation
• A passport valid for entire period of intended stay in Seychelles
• A valid onward or return ticket 
• Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of stay (US$ 150 or equivalent per day)

The visitor’s permit may be granted for a period of visit of up to  three months upon arrival. It can be extended for successive periods not exceeding three months at a time, up to a maximum period of twelve months, provided, the person is able to furnish proof of sufficient funds for the extended period.

The visitor’s permit is issued free of charge for the first three months , after which, a fee of Seychellois Rupees 5,000/‐ (approx. Indian Rupees 31,500) is applicable for extension covering each period of three months or any part thereof.

There is however a fee associated with the Digital Travel Authorization service. While the official portal does not mention what the exact fee is, users on TripAdvisor have mentioned it as being 10 Euros (approx. 950 INR as of 24 August 2023).

If you have any queries or doubts, let us know in the comments below.

Happy Traveling! 🙂

Source : Immigration Authority, Seychelles Link1 – Link 2 – Link 3

Frequently Asked Questions

Do indians need a visa for seychelles.

Indians visiting Seychelles for tourism do not require a visa but are issued a visitor's permit on arrival in Seychelles. required to furnish a "Digital Travel Authorization" at https://seychelles.govtas.com/ .

How long can one stay in Seychelles on the visitor's permit?

The visitor's permit allows one to stay in Seychelles for a maximum of three months. It can however be extended for successive periods not exceeding three months at a time, up to a maximum period of twelve months.

What is the visa fee for Indians visiting Seychelles?

The visitor's permit is issued free of charge for the first three months , after which, a fee of Seychellois Rupees 5,000/‐ (approx. Indian Rupees 31,500) is applicable for each three month extension. The Digital Travel Authorization service carries a fee of 10 Euros (approx. 950 INR as of 24 August 2023).

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Seychelles Visa for Indians: Requirements, Validity & Fees

Seychelles is made up of 115 Islands in the Indian Ocean. It has beautiful beaches and thriving marine life. It is Ideal for tourism and activities such as sailing, diving, fishing are very popular. Creole is the language that is spoken the most here. English and French are also spoken almost everywhere. Indians that want to enjoy Seychelles need to understand the process for entering the country. This article explains the different aspects required for the Seychelles Visa for Indians .

Seychelles lies to the northeast of Madagascar. Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are the most popular cities here. The Seychelles capital Victoria, has a variety of restaurants, cafés, bars and casinos. The warm and clear water of the Indian ocean and the soft white sand are inviting and relaxing. The Seychelles National Botanical Garden in Mahé is a must see, given the flora and fauna of the region. Giant tortoises and fish can also be found on the Curieuse Island and off of the off the Beau Vallon coast.

Do Indians require a visa for Seychelles ?

Travellers need to get a permit from the Seychelles Immigration Department after reaching the country. 

Validity 

This permit is valid for 30 days and can be extended for 3 months.

Required Documents 

To obtain a permit for Seychelles, please carry the following documents with you.

• Two passport-sized photographs
• Confirmed return tickets from Seychelles
• Indian passport with at least six more months of validity from the date of arrival in Seychelles
• Proof of hotel accommodation, in the form of receipts or bills
• Indian travellers must possess $150 or around Rs. 11,202 per person per day of stay. 

These are some of the basic requirements that a Seychelles traveller must meet  in order to acquire a permit. 

Seychelles Visa Fee for Indians

There is no visa fee required. 

Visiting Seychelles is irresistible. It is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable countries worldwide. It also makes things easier that the travel process is relatively simple and straightforward. Seychelles is an ideal location with highly enjoyable activities. The vegetation, marine life and wonderful beaches make it stand out. Seychelles even has good vegetarian options along with a variety of international cuisines. The local creole dishes are flavorful and use many seasonal vegetables. 

We hope that you travel to this beautiful archipelago in the Indian Ocean. We also hope that you have an enjoyable and uniquely fulfilling experience. 

To ask any questions related to the rights of NRIs, PIOs, and OCIs, you can  download SBNRI App  from the Google Play Store or App Store. You can also use the SBNRI app for investment in stock market/ mutual funds, NRI account opening, tax filing, etc. To ask any questions, click on the button below. Also, visit  our blog  and YouTube channel for more details. 

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Indians need a permit   from the Seychelles Immigration Department after reaching the country. 

There is no visa on arrival but a permit is required from the Seychelles Immigration Department after reaching the country. 

The traveler must possess $150 or around Rs. 11,202 per person per day of stay.

No there is no visa fee required. 

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08/12/2020 11:53:14

Seychelles Visa: Eligibility, Documents & Process for Indians

/seychelles-visa-guide.

13 Jan 2022

About Seychelles

Seychelles is a country in the Indian Ocean that is primarily dependent on the tourism industry to boost its economic growth. However, the nation is currently witnessing progress and development on economic front due to improvement in service and public sectors. It has led to an increase in purchasing power parity. Very few countries in Africa are reported to have a high Human Development Index and the highest nominal per capita GDP in Africa. So, the nation of Seychelles has emerged as a place where expats have increased over the last decade. However, the country also offers some tourist destinations. But, before visiting the nation, you should know that it is officially known as the Republic of Seychelles, and is believed to have the smallest population of any sovereign African country.

Seychelles Visa Application Process

Seychelles is considered to be a Visa-free country. Therefore, if a person desires to travel to Seychelles, he may do so without a Visa. Still, it is recommended to have a passport which should have the validity up to the day of stay and other essential documents permitted by the government of Seychelles.

Any person desiring to visit Seychelles for holidays or meeting friends and families or any other business purpose shall be issued a Visitor's Permit upon the fulfillment of the following aspects:

• Should not be a prohibited immigrant
• Should not be holding a valid permit which makes the holder reside in Seychelles
• Should have sufficient funds for the stay and confirmed accommodation
• Should be a holder of a valid return ticket during the visit.

Normally the Visitor's permit is granted for three months, which can be extended to a maximum period of three months, but subject to maximum twelve months provided the criteria of bona fide visitors must be met by the person.

According to the norms, for the Initial three months, the Visitor's Permit is issued free of charge, after which fee of Sr. 5000 is charged for the extended period of three months.

The conditions of obtaining an extension of Visitor's permit are the same as Visitor's permit which are:

Seychelles Visa For Indians

Indians are granted Visa on arrival for a maximum period of 90 days as per the norms of the country subject to a condition of holding a return ticket, proof of accommodation and sufficient funds of minimum $150 per day. The Seychelles Department of Immigration is authorized to issue the Visitor's permit on arrival in Seychelles.

Types of Seychelles Visa

Primarily, there are three types of Seychelles visa for Indians; they are:

Seychelles Tourist visa

A tourist visa is issued to Indian citizens who want to visit the nation of Seychelles for sightseeing or visiting friends and families. Under this visa, they cannot work in the nation of Seychelles. One of the best benefits of Seychelles tourist visa is that you can get one on arrival. It means that you do not have to go through a prolonged and rigorous application process and wait a few weeks before getting your visa.

Seychelles Work Visa

This type of visa is issued to Indian citizens who want to visit the nation of Seychelles with specific reason for working or for business. This visa category also contains numerous sub-categories such as for shooting, cultural, sports and various other reasons.

Seychelles Transit Visa

Transit visa is issued to those Indian citizens who are in the nation of Seychelles only for a few days as they wait for transport out of the nation to visit another country.

Seychelles Visa Fees

Since Seychelles is a Visa Free country, the applicability of Seychelles Visa Fees does not necessarily apply. However person resident of India should be holding passport and travel documents recognized by the Republic of Seychelles. Therefore, Indian resident does not necessarily have to apply for Seychelles Visa online.

Seychelles work visa can be obtained if the below-mentioned procedure is followed:

• Any person desirous of obtaining Seychelles work visa need to apply for Gainful Occupational Permit if the person is self-employed in his own company
• GOP applications after being filled will have to be submitted for approval to Immigration Office, Independence House, Victoria
• In order to receive GOP, the following should be submitted to the Authority:
• Proof of your approval letter issued by Seychelles Investment Bureau [www.sib.gov.sc] to state the approval.

Furthermore, the fee for payment for processing of the GOP application is Sr. 1000, and the cost of GOP is Sr. 700. The fee shall have to be submitted together with the application.

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What is gainful occupational permit.

Gainful Occupational Permit enables the holder to occupy himself either as a person who employs others, in other words, Employer or as a person who is self-employed. Either of the two is permissible.

Time Limit: GOP should be submitted within a time frame of at least one week before the employee starts working. To elaborate, no person is permitted to work or enter in Seychelles for employing self without having obtained Gainful Occupational Permit. Another condition required to be met the application form has to be completed by the person who is going to engage himself as self-employed or by the prospective employer.

In order for the application for GOP to be considered, the following points are taken into consideration:

• The prospective employee's health, character and reputation and where necessary, any member of his/her household to be granted the permit.
• Technical or Professional qualifications of a prospective employee to be considered.
• The person rendering service already exists in Seychelles.
• Local interest to be protected.
• The benefits are it economy, be it social that could be brought up by the applicant or prospective employee in order to contribute to the positive changes in Seychelles.

Residence Permit

The following conditions have to be met in order to be eligible for obtaining Residence Permit:

• Should have a domestic or any familial connection
• Should make or should have made a special contribution to Seychelles on an economic, cultural or social level

Additionally, there are other requirements for being a residence permit holder for Seychelles has to stay at least five days during each month the past year in the nation during the valid duration of the permit.

Furthermore, if the permit holder resides in Seychelles for more than one month (in any year) he/she shall keep a deposit with a bank in Seychelles or provide a bank guarantee to the Director General of Immigration, of not less than SR 20,000/- and allow the Director General of Immigration to draw on the deposit or call on the guarantee for the purpose of meeting expenditure incurred by the government in connection with the care, treatment or maintenance within or removal from Seychelles of the permit holder and his/her dependents.

The fee for processing the application is US5/- and the fee for the resident Permit is SR50,000/- for the main application and SR25,000/- for the spouse if applied at the same time.

The fee for endorsement of each minor dependent on a Residence Permit is SR1,000/-.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of commonly asked questions while applying for visa.

Can I enter Seychelles without a valid visa?

It is mandatory for Indian citizens to have a valid visa issued to them when visiting the nation of Seychelles. Even though the nation of Seychelles has a visa on arrival policy; it does not mean that you enter the nation without a visa. The visa on arrival is granted to you at the airport. If you do not have a valid Seychelles visa when you enter the nation, you could be deported, jailed, fined or never allowed into Seychelles again.

Do I need travel insurance to visit Seychelles?

It is always recommendable that you take travel insurance for every trip regardless of duration and destination. Travel insurance allows you to travel stress-free by paying minimal premium charges. ICICI Lombard General Insurance offers individual and family travel insurance plans in addition to student travel insurance policies.

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Seychelles Visa for Indians: eTA Requirements & Application

Last Updated : 28 Apr 2024

Last Updated : 28 Apr 2024 at

30-second Summary

Indian nationals planning to visit Seychelles for tourism must obtain a Seychelles eTA.

Seychelles eTA process is conducted entirely online.

It does not require you to submit your passport and visit any embassy for interviews.

Important Information

— Visa type

— Seychelles visa cost

— Seychelles visa processing time

— Seychelles visa validity

— Length of stay

Do Indians need a visa for Seychelles?

Yes. Indian nationals must have a valid eTA to enter the country to enter Seychelles. You can apply 30 days before the travelling date as it is important to have travel authorisation; otherwise, you won't be allowed to enter the country.

One of the most convenient visa options is the eTA, enabling applicants to complete the process online. Indian citizens have the option to apply for an eTA through Atlys or directly via the official government website.

Can Indians get a Seychelles visa on arrival?

Indians are not eligible for a Seychelles Visa On Arrival (VOA). To enter Seychelles, Indian nationals must apply for an electronic travel authorisation before travelling. This straightforward online process can be done through Atlys or the government portal.

Seychelles visa requirements for Indians

For the Seychelles eTA for Indians, you'll need to provide specific documents through the online form:

Valid Passport: Upload a scan of the information page of your valid passport, which should display your photo and personal details. Ensure your passport has a minimum validity of 6 months from your arrival date and contains at least 2 blank pages.

Visa Photo: Provide a recent digital, passport-sized photo taken against a white background, with the applicant facing forward and not wearing glasses.

Atlys simplifies the document upload process, allowing you to use your smartphone or laptop camera to submit the necessary documents.You can also use the free visa photo maker to ensure your photo meets the specified requirements.

Seychelles visa fees for Indians

The Seychelles eTA for Indians is ₹ 1,820 on Atlys. When you apply on Atlys, there is a guarantee you'll receive your visa on time. This makes planning your trip easier and stress-free.

Seychelles visa application process for Indians:

We always want to ensure that our readers know exactly how to apply and their options. For the Seychelles eTA for Indians, you can either apply for your eTA through Atlys or handle the application yourself.

How to apply through Atlys

Follow these steps for a timely visa application through Atlys online:

Start application: Initiate your Seychelles eTA process by visiting Atlys.

Upload or take your photo: Use the portal to upload a pre-existing photo or capture a new one with your smartphone or laptop.

Provide details: Accurately enter all necessary personal and travel information.

Finalise and pay: Confirm your application details, proceed to the payment section, and cover any visa fees required.

Why choose Atlys

Seychelles visa approval times are uncertain. Atlys promises same-day delivery of your pre-arrival registration.

Atlys has tie-ups and public relations officers at Seychelles Immigration to ensure that visas come on time.

Atlys enables you to apply for visas for your entire family in a single application.

How to apply through the government website

Here's a simplified guide to applying for a Seychelles eTA for Indian citizens through the Seychelles immigration portal:

Website navigation and document upload: Navigate to the official Seychelles Immigration Portal . Fill out the application form with all necessary information, such as passport details, date of birth, and travel plans. Upload the required documents, including a portrait photo and the image of your passport's data page.

Detail confirmation: Review the information you've provided in your application thoroughly. Make sure everything is correct and complete. If you need to make changes, do so before proceeding.

Application submission: After ensuring your application's accuracy and completing the payment, submit your application. This marks the completion of your application process.

Download and print eTA: Once your application is approved, return to the portal to download your eTA. Print it out to show the Immigration Officer when you arrive at the airport or another entry point in Seychelles.

Additional documents to be submitted:

If you are wondering what documents are required to apply for a Seychelles eTA through the government portal, here is the list of documents:

Airline booking confirmation: Upload a copy of your airline booking confirmation showing your arrival and departure dates. Get your dummy flight booking using the dummy airline ticket generator .

Accommodation booking confirmation: Upload the booking confirmation (s) for each place you'll stay in Seychelles. This should include the name of the hotel/guesthouse, boat charter, or employer's name. If staying with friends or family, a letter of invitation is required. Generate dummy hotel reservation using this tool.

Tips to apply

Verify the completeness and correctness of all documents needed for your eTA, such as your passport and photo.

Ensure the application form is meticulously completed with details corresponding to your travel documents.

Apply for your eTA before your planned travel date to provide enough time to fix any problems, guaranteeing a timely visa receipt.

Consistently monitor the status of your eTA application online to respond to any additional requests or necessary adjustments quickly.

Receive your approved Seychelles visa for Indians

Once you've submitted your visa application, a waiting period for processing begins. Applying for your eTA in advance is important to allow sufficient time for this processing phase.

Through Atlys:

After your visa gets approved, Atlys will send you an approval notification. You can then download the eTA, print it out, and bring it when travelling.

Through the government portal:

The government will not send you any email; you must manually check to verify your visa has been granted. Once approved, you can download the visa and print it.

Seychelles visa information for Indians

How to check seychelles visa status.

To view the status of your eTA application, follow these instructions on the official government site:

Navigate to the Immigration Portal's webpage.

Enter the necessary details, such as your document number, reference number, and date of birth, to access and print your eTA status.

Keep your registration code handy to check and print the Seychelles eTA for Indians, as the results will not be sent to you via email.

Download the Atlys app to monitor progress effortlessly at every step for real-time updates on your visa application.

Seychelles visa processing time

You will receive your Seychelles eTA in 3 days when applying through Atlys. Opting for Atlys streamlines this process, significantly reducing wait times.

Seychelles visa validity & length of stay:

Your eTA will specify the validity period of your Seychelles eTA upon receipt, which is 30 days. This eTA permits a single entry into the country and allows for a stay of up to 3 months.

Our Commitment To Visa Accuracy:

All the information in this blog is sourced from official government websites, ensuring reliability and accuracy. You can trust the content to be accurate, but remember to stay informed, as changes may happen without notice.

Seychelles Immigration Portal Website

Atlys suggests confirming the latest information on government fees and processes by checking the official website before you apply, as these details may change.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Travel Authorisation (TA) system checks if travellers meet certain health and security criteria before they can fly to Seychelles. It makes travel safer, gives the government information about who is coming, and improves the travel experience.

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Seychelles Visa

Seychelles tourist visa is not required for citizens of India for a stay up to 30 days.

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Seychelles Tourist Visa Requirements - Documents, Eligibility & Fees

Indian passport holders who are willing to apply for a Seychelles Tourist visa can find the necessary visa information on this page. In the following, you can find Seychelles Tourist visa requirements which mainly include the visa documents and eligibility criteria. General guidelines to be followed at the time of submission of Seychelles Tourist visa documents are mentioned on the page. For further visa consultation, you can contact BTW Visa Executives.

• Tourist Visa
• Business Visa

Following is the list of documents required for Seychelles Tourist visa for Indians.

A passport is a document that is required at the time of international travels. It is issued by the government of the country to verify the identity and nationality of the candidate.

The submitted passport must meet the parameters given below

• The passport must be valid for the period of the intended stay until arrival back in the holder’s country of origin or residence.
• It must be a valid passport or other travel documents recognized by the government of Seychelles in order to gain entry.
• It must not be torn, ripped, split, or damaged in any kind of way.

One cannot cross international boundries without the passport. It is considered a criminal offense otherwise.

An air ticket is a ticket or pass that is possessed by the traveller who is taking a flight for travelling from one location to another.

It is an important document and it should be submitted for the given reason

• It must be a valid return ticket or ticket for onward travel for the duration of the visit.
• It must be confirmed for the complete round trip.

An air ticket shows your course of travel and confirms your return to the native country.

Bank statement is a document that issued from the bank. This is obtained for the savings bank account to show ratify if you will be able to support your stay in the country.

The Bank statement is a mandatory document and it should meet the following criteria

• It must reflect sufficient funds for the duration of the stay (minimum of US$150 or equivalent per day).
• It must be original and should have the bank's stamp and signature on every page.

If the Bank Statement doesn't show enough funds or shows irrelevant expenditure, it could lead to visa rejection on financial means. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

Eligibility for getting Seychelles Tourist Visa:

In order to be eligible to travel to the country on a visa, you will have to meet the following eligibility criteria.

Be a genuine traveller- You must have a valid and good intention behind travelling to the country.

Eligible to bear all expenses - You must possess sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents throughout the stay.

Reasons to return - You must have strong ties in your home country that will ensure that you will return after your stay.

Be of good character - You must have a clean criminal track record and be of good character. You may have to provide PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) for the same.

Be in good health - You must at least meet the minimum health requirements required by the authorities.

• You must be a genuine travelling enthusiast wanting to explore the country.
• You must already have the necessary travel arrangements made to prove your intention to visit.

Visa Fees for Seychelles Tourist Visa:

*Important Note:

Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask for additional documents or personal appearance for an interview in special cases. Submission of the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee that a visa is granted, so It's recommonded to get the professional visa consultation. Submission of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear for a special visa interview may result in the rejection of your visa application .

Although the information on this website has been prepared with utmost care. However, regulations and requirements are subject to change.

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Seychelles Tourism

India to Seychelles (A Complete Guide) | Seychelles Tourism

Seychelles remains a relatively unexplored destination even though it hides a number of splendid beaches and alluring greens. A group of islands in the Indian Ocean, this East African country offers the perfect escape to holidayers looking for some change in the air. The journey from India to Seychelles is not a very long one, but well worth the time.

Indians’ Love for Seychelles

Indians are known the world over to be avid travellers. However, the bond between India and Seychelles goes far beyond tourism. About 6% of the local population consists of Indo-Seychellois inhabitants. Thanks to inter-marriages with Seychellois people of Creole, French and African origin, more than 80% of the present generation has some Indian heritage, even if it is distant.

One can easily spot a bit of Indian-ness in most spheres of the Seychellois culture, whether it is food, language or religion. In the past decades, this African archipelago was one of the top favourites of wealthy Indian celebrities and business tycoons. However, the recent boom in overseas tourism has seen a lot of Indians warming up to this tropical paradise.

Where is Seychelles?

The Republic of Seychelles sits in the Somali Sea, which is a part of the Indian Ocean. An island country in Sub-Saharan Africa, Seychelles is located 1,500 away from the mainland. While it is too tiny to appear on the globe, this archipelago is a cluster of 115 little islands which are fairly big in size (when compared to similar archipelagos in the rest of the world).

Seychelles is spread over 459 square kilometres and follows the time zone of UTC+4 throughout the nation, also abbreviated as SCT (Seychelles Time). The country is 1,600 kilometres to the east of Kenya, about 1,300 kilometres from Somalia and to the north east of Madagascar.

The constitution of Seychelles recognizes more islands than the number (115) observed by the world. At 155, it claims to have many named islands, some part of the Outer Islands which were recognized by the tourism ministry more recently.

Since Seychelles is located south of the equator, weather patterns follow the southern hemispheric trends. Nevertheless, its unique tropical rainforest climate ensures that there is a perpetual wet season here, apart from a handful of dry season months.

India to Seychelles Map

It is hard to spot Seychelles on a regular world map as its size is impossible to be accurately represented in reference to other countries such as India. Even though India is in the continent of Asia, and Seychelles, a part of East Africa, both the countries are less than 5 hours away from each other.

The islands in Seychelles are segregated into 26 administrative regions with Victoria as the capital. From India, Seychelles appears as we move to the south west, towards Africa. We must look below the horn of East Africa to be able to locate this island cluster.

India to Seychelles Distance

Seychelles is roughly 3,794 kilometres away from India, with some variations depending on your starting location in India and exact destination in the archipelagic island country. This seemingly large figure, however, is nothing more than a number, especially when you remember that the flight time from India to Seychelles is hardly a few hours.

Which is Closer to India? Seychelles or Mauritius?

We are spoilt for choice when it comes to island vacation destinations in the Indian Ocean. Many tourists tend to compare Seychelles with Mauritius when making their holiday decision. It may seem a bit confusing to pick between the two as both are gorgeous island locations off mainland Africa.

Both Mauritius and Seychelles have a sizable Indian population by heritage, and offer a decent amount of variety when it comes to topography and sightseeing. However, Mauritius is approximately 5,110 kilometres from India, much farther than Seychelles.

When one compares the flight time, it takes 6 and half hours to fly direct from India to Mauritius, whereas it takes just 4 and a half hours for Seychelles. Seychelles is, no doubt, closer to India, but the fare difference varies only marginally.

How to Reach Seychelles from India?

There are different modes of transportation to travel from India to Seychelles . Before rushing to book your flights, understand the other options and the pros and cons of each. The choice you make should reflect what you want, not what all other Indians do.

India to Seychelles by Flight

The most popular way to get from India to Seychelles is by air. There are a few flight operators that connect different Indian cities to Seychelles. One will find both direct flights and connecting ones, from numerous places in India to a number of islands in Seychelles.

In case there are no flights that are convenient to you, and if you are willing to loosen the purse strings, you can also charter a small plane or whizz past in a private jet. Helicopter tours are also possible, but only for getting from one Seychellois island to another as helicopters cannot scale the long distance between India and Seychelles.

Seychelles Airport

There are a total of 15 airports in Seychelles, with many more helipads. One must not be led into thinking that international flights operate from all, as there is only one international air base here – Seychelles International Airport on Mahé Island. All other airports are for domestic flights, chartered aircraft and private jets only.

Other airports in Seychelles are Praslin Island Airport, Frégate Island Airport, Alphonse Airport, Assumption Island Airport, Coëtivy Airport, Platte Island Airport, Astove Island Airport, Denis Island Airport, Remire Island Airport, Bird Island Airport, Farquhar Airport, D’Arros Island Airport, Marie Louise Island Airport and Desroches Airport.

Each of these airports is located in its own island in Seychelles. In fact, most of the aerodromes are air strips, without the regular facilities of a full-fledged airport. But that also means check-in and check-out procedures are quicker. The smaller airports and airstrips in Seychelles are connected by domestic flights to Seychelles International Airport (known as Aéroport de la Pointe Larue in French), making local tourism possible to the world.

Flight Duration from India

The flight time from India to Seychelles is contingent on the Indian city you are flying from. The only direct route that exists from India is from Mumbai, taking 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach Seychelles International Airport . All other routes have at least one stop over (and some with more than one halt), taking the total flight time to over 10 hours. Some very long flight routes can even cross 30 hours.

Flight Operators from India

A select few airlines fly from India to Seychelles International Airport, connecting a handful of cities. Only 2 airlines offer direct flights – Air Seychelles and Air India , the latter being the only Indian airline to operate on that route. Also note that direct flights are only available for Mumbai. All other Indian cities will have at least one stop over, either in India or abroad, depending upon the connecting airline(s).

If layovers are no problem for you, then you will have more airlines to experiment with. Including 1 or 2 halts, other airlines that connect various Indian cities to the Seychellois island of Mahé are Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Air and Kenya Airways .

Departing Cities from India and Average Air Ticket Price

Flight connections to Seychellois islands from Indian cities are infrequent and with multiple layovers that involve switching airlines as well. However, most airlines have code-sharing agreements with one another, and let you fly on the same PNR with through-booking of checked baggage. That means, you will not need to collect your check-in bags at the stopovers or re-check them in for the next connecting flight.

Departing cities from India to Seychelles are Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai, Nagpur, Goa, Surat and many more. Except for Mumbai, though, all other cities have layovers. The cheapest tickets for a direct one-way flight from Mumbai to Seychelles will cost about INR 17,000 per head.

Figures can soar to INR 30,000+ for a single journey, while return fares begin at INR 33,000 when you book direct with Air Seychelles or Air India. Many connecting routes offer tickets that can cost up to several lakhs of rupees. However, average return ticket prices from India to Seychelles hover around INR 40,000 per person.

India to Seychelles by Cruise

As of now, there are no active cruises that operate between India and Seychelles. However, in the past, Azamara Club Cruises offered a 20-day sail along various points of interest in the Indian Ocean. Their seaborne vessel started from Mumbai and stopped at Kochi for a couple of days before setting sail for Seychelles, where it would remain for 3 days.

The full itinerary also included visits to The Maldives and Sri Lanka, before returning to India, where it had a halt in Goa and finally docked in Mumbai. The sea route is an affordable alternative to flying, and one should keep an eye out for any new voyages that are announced in the future.

Sea Route Distance and Time Taken

The distance between Mumbai and Victoria – capital city of Seychelles is 3,251 kilometres. However, the sea route can be longer as there may be other halts on the way. From Kochi, this distance is 2,815 km – an important docking station for most cruise liners that sail in the Indian Ocean.

Currently unavailable on any Seychelles vacation package , sailing from Kochi to the island of Mahé takes at least 3 days. The return journey takes just as long. A cruise from India to Seychelles, therefore, will take at least a couple of weeks to be properly enjoyed.

Cruise Fare

The 20-day long cruise from the Arabian Sea to the Somali Sea in the Indian Ocean was priced at USD 5,999 plus taxes, fees and port expenses. At present, one can choose to cruise between multiple islands in Seychelles on liveaboards. The costs range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,70,000 per person for cruises that last between 4 and 11 days.

India to Seychelles by Road (Possibility)

On the surface, it may seem impossible to do a road trip from India to Seychelles as both the countries are not only in different continents but also separated by many seas in the Indian Ocean. However, for those keen on road-tripping, it is possible to break the journey into multiple laps and cover the Indian bit via roadways.

Since Mumbai is the only Indian city with a direct flight to Seychelles International Airport , it makes sense to drive up to Mumbai from whichever other city in India that you reside in. Being the financial capital of India, Mumbai is well connected to most other cities, towns and villages via expressways, national highways, state highways and other roads.

Once you reach Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), take the 4 hour 25 minute direct flight to Seychelles. If your itinerary only includes exploring the island of Mahé, you can continue your road trip there.

Visiting Seychelles from various Indian Cities

One need not worry if arriving from a city that does not have any well-popularized flights to Seychelles. There are plenty of connections with either a single airline or multiple airlines to get you from any Indian city to the island of Mahé.

Delhi to Seychelles

New Delhi is about 4,365 km away from the Seychellois archipelago. The capital of India has no direct flights to Mahé but several connecting routes are available. Choose from Air India, Air Seychelles and Emirates when flying from Delhi to Seychelles .

The shortest flight takes 13 hours and 40 minutes with a 7 hour layover in Mumbai. Operated by Air India and Air Seychelles, this route costs just INR 37,000 for the return journey, and INR 23,000 for the onward flight.

You can also fly Emirates if you prefer a halt in Dubai and wish to spend some time checking out the famous Dubai Airport. The journey time in that case will range between 16 hours and 28 hours, depending on the layover duration.

Mumbai to Seychelles

Mumbai to Seychelles route is the best connected one, with maximum flight options. Air Seychelles, Etihad, Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Air operate flights on this route, Air Seychelles and Air India being the only two operators with direct flights.

It takes only 4 hours and 25 minutes when you fly non-stop. The cheapest fare is offered by Air Seychelles at INR 17,000 one way. Mumbai is 3,254 km from Seychelles, and the flying time can go up to 40 hours, with layovers in Dubai, Doha, Addis Ababa or Delhi and Abu Dhabi.

Bangalore to Seychelles

Previously known as Bangalore, Bengaluru is 3,132 km away from Seychelles. This tech hub in the Indian state of Karnataka is connected to the African archipelagic islands through multiple airlines such as Air India, Air Seychelles, Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways and Kenya Airways.

Since there are no direct flights from Bangalore to Seychelles , expect layovers at Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Nairobi or Doha, depending on the airline connections you choose. The shortest route takes 14 hours and 30 minutes, costing INR 29,000 for one person one way.

Chennai to Seychelles

About 3,374 km from Seychelles, Chennai has a select few flight routes with a single stopover. Since none of the airlines operate on a daily basis, the flight options you have will depend on the day of the week you choose to fly.

The shortest flight from Chennai to Seychelles takes 18 hours and 45 minutes, a layover in Mumbai. Operated by Air India and Air Seychelles, this is also the cheapest one-way flight at INR 26,000. Other airlines that service this route are Etihad, Qatar Airways and Emirates.

Kolkata to Seychelles

The Seychelles is located at a distance of 4,683 km from Kolkata. Even connecting flights from Kolkata to Seychelles are only available on certain days of the week. The quickest route is via Mumbai, with a 9.5 hour layover. This is also the cheapest flight at INR 27,400 for a single journey.

Airlines that ply from Kolkata to Seychelles on a code-sharing basis are Air India, Air Seychelles and Emirates, the latter offering a halt in Dubai. Flights can cost up to INR 47,000 for the onward journey for one person.

Hyderabad to Seychelles

Separated by 3,519 kilometres, Hyderabad and Seychelles are serviced by Etihad, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air India and Air Seychelles.11 hours and 40 minutes is the fastest you can get from Hyderabad to Seychelles via Mumbai.

The most economical flight rate is INR 28,000 while the average cost typically hovers around the INR 44,000 ballpark figure. Some long haul flights can take your entire journey time from the city of pearls to Seychelles to over 30 hours.

Ahmedabad to Seychelles

3,594 kilometres away from Seychelles, Ahmedabad may be a newly upgraded tier-1 city in India, but there are no direct flights that connect the two destinations. Even the shortest flight takes 26 hours and 20 minutes, with a 21-hour long layover in Mumbai.

Prices can range between INR 25,000 and INR 64,000 for a one-way economy-class ticket from Ahmedabad to Seychelles . Airlines on this route are Air India, Air Seychelles, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Kenya Airways and Emirates.

Goa to Seychelles

Goa and Seychelles share similar vibes, with so many beaches to laze around on. Separated by 3,023 km, there are only 3 airlines that operate from Goa to Seychelles as of now. Choose between Qatar Airways which has a layover in Doha, and a code-sharing flight operated by Air India and Air Seychelles that halts in Mumbai.

The shortest route takes 10 and a half hours whereas some can cross the 30-hour mark. Prices for a single journey start from INR 28,000. One should plan their trip in advance when coming from Goa as flights are only available on certain days of the week, and sometimes on certain weeks only.

Pune to Seychelles

Pune is 3,271 km from Seychelles International Airport . As of now, there are no flights that connect Pune to the island of Mahé. However, it is possible to drive down to Mumbai in 3 to 4 hours and catch any of the flights available from Mumbai to Seychelles. Alternatively, on a separate PNR, it is possible to fly from Pune to Mumbai before getting on the plane to Mahé.

The road trip from Pune to Mumbai can be made via long-distance buses (private or state operated), cabs or self-drive rental cars as well. Costs vary depending on how you plan on reaching Mumbai’s international airport from Pune. Budget for approximately INR 100 for an MSRTC bus ride to INR 2,000 for a pre-booked hatchback.

Cochin to Seychelles

Cochin is 2,817 away from Mahé Island. Carriers that fly from Kochi to Seychelles are Air India, Air Seychelles, Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad. All of these flights have at least one stopover in cities like Mumbai, Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi (based on the airline).

The lowest one-way flight rate is INR 30,000, taking 13 hours and 30 minutes for the entire journey. Other connections typically cost over INR 50,000 per head per way for economy seats.

Nagpur to Seychelles

3,854 km away, Nagpur has no flights to Seychelles. The nearest airport from where one can catch a flight to Mahé is in Mumbai. Nagpur and Mumbai are well connected by railroads and roadways, but over 800 km apart.

Driving or taking a bus could be too tiresome, so the best way to reach Mumbai airport is by taking a train or catching a domestic flight from Nagpur to Mumbai. From Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, take any of the flight options to Seychelles.

Surat to Seychelles

Surat is 3,439 km from Seychelles, and without any flight connections. However, one can fly down to Mumbai or drive up to Ahmedabad for their onward journey to Mahé. Surat and Mumbai are serviced by several trains and buses as well. Also, it takes just 5 hours to reach Mumbai from Surat by road.

India & Seychelles’ Currency

While both India and Seychelles deal in rupees, one must not confuse both the rupees to be the same. India’s currency is the Indian Rupee (INR) while Seychelles uses the Seychellois rupee or roupi (as it is called in the Seselwa dialect).

The Seychellois rupee is denoted by SCR, SRe or SR. Each roupi or roupie is subdivided into 100 cents. Currency notes presently in circulation are in the denominations of 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500, whereas coins in circulation are in the denominations of 1, 5 and 10 rupees, and 1, 5, 10 and 25 cents.

Accepted Currencies

The Seychellois rupee is accepted all across the country, being the official currency. However, most hotels in Seychelles also accept Euros (EUR). While most other currencies are not freely accepted, one can easily exchange reserve currencies such as US dollars and British pounds as well.

When travelling from India, one must remember that the Indian rupee is not a reserve currency, and hence, not easily changeable in Seychelles. Always carry your money converted into Euros (most preferred) or USD (the next best option), if not GBP. You will have to change your USDs and GBPs into SCR or EUR once you reach this African island nation though.

Average Conversion Rate

Whether you book activities in Seychelles or pay for your hotel stay or simply enjoy a meal, you will need to settle your bills in either Seychellois rupees or Euros. In some rare cases, dollars will also be accepted. It is good to know the trends for the conversion rates of INR against all of these currencies (as of March 2021).

• 1 SCR = 3.42 INR
• 1 USD = 72.45 INR
• 1 USD = 21.21 SCR
• 1 GBP = 29.42 SCR
• 1 GBP = 100.52 INR
• 1 EUR = 86.27 INR
• 1 EUR = 25.25 SCR

Is USD accepted in Seychelles?

The United States dollar is not as widely accepted as Euro or the Seychellois rupee. Nevertheless, if you are unable to carry your local currency in Euro, USD is a good alternative. Your banknotes can be easily changed into SCR or EUR at the airport or international banks in Victoria – capital city of Seychelles . Apart from cash, credit cards are readily accepted by most establishments.

Seychelles Visa details for Indians

Seychelles is a visa-free destination for the entire world, including India. This means, Indians do not need a visa to enter Seychelles. In fact, the Republic of Seychelles, an East African country does not even issue a tourist visa, so there is no way to apply for it!

However, after reaching the island nation, every foreigner must apply for a visitor’s permit. To obtain this, Indians should have a return ticket to India or any onward flight to another country. One should also possess proof of accommodation for the entire duration of the stay. Travel insurance, though important, is not required by the authorities.

Is a Passport required for Indians?

Passport is required for Indians to enter Seychelles. The passport must be valid until at least the date that you return to your originating country. Outside of India, your passport is your most important and the only official document that can identify you in any part of the world.

Seychelles Visa Fee

Since there is no visa or even e-visa, there is no fee for it. Even the visitor’s permit is free of cost for all arriving foreigners. There is no way to get any sort of pre-authorization or apply for it online or in advance. The visitor’s permit must be obtained only once you reach Seychelles.

This permit allows one to stay in the Seychellois islands for at least 30 days. One can then have it extended for 2 more months (totalling 3 months of stay). Indians should also carry 2 passport-sized photos and at least USD 150 per person per day for each day of the stay in Seychelles (as proof of their ability to afford the holiday).

Seychelles Visa on Arrival

As an Indian, when you arrive at the Seychelles International Airport, you do not receive a visa on arrival. Instead the document is a visitor’s permit. This is issued at the discretion of the immigration authorities, and is given once you furnish all the aforementioned proofs of being a tourist, i.e., return tickets or onward journey tickets, confirmation voucher of the resorts in The Seychelles you’ll be staying at, and proof of sufficient funds.

Communication in Seychelles

Seychelles is a place where you will want to forget all ties with the rest of the world, and just frolic on the golden beaches of the archipelagic islands. However, you will still need a phone and a way to stay connected with your family back home.

Even during emergencies and instances when you lose your way, it helps to have a phone to make a call or use a map app. Let’s not forget, you will need data to update your social media feed as well! While most hotels in Seychelles offer complimentary WiFi, you might want to have some data on your phone for the secluded islands.

There are 2 main telecom operators in Seychelles – Airtel and C&W (Cable and Wireless). It is possible to buy a local SIM from Victoria or Praslin, and also from the Mahé airport itself. You will need to show your passport to register yourself as a user.

International SIM Cards from Indian Airports

For those who do not wish to change their number or SIM (to be able to receive important calls on their existing number), getting international roaming activated on your existing postpaid plan is one option. However, international calls and call reception charges can be steep, not to mention the data charges that cost an arm and a leg.

If you don’t mind having a different number in Seychelles, you can get an international SIM card from either the international airport in India that you are departing from, or have it pre-delivered to your home in advance. Matrix, WrapTel, PlanetRoam and a few others offer a mix of prepaid and postpaid global SIM cards that will save you a lot of money when making calls or browsing the internet in Seychelles.

Airtel Call Rates from Seychelles to India

If you buy the Airtel local SIM from Seychelles, you will get a calling credit of SCR 25 along with it. Data packs have to be bought separately. Consider buying one of the International turbo packs if you will be making a lot of calls to India.

Airtel call rates from Seychelles to India can be as low as SCR 1.5 per minute (if you buy their international calling pack for the maximum duration). Many other calling packs offered by Airtel differ in their validity (duration and choice of countries) and option of using data. Some packs can cost over SCR 6 per minute for a call from Seychelles to India.

India to Seychelles Phone Code

Seychelles’ phone code is +248. Whenever you make a call to any local Seychelles (SC) number from a SIM registered in a foreign country, you must prefix these 3 digits to successfully make a call. Note that when calling from a local Seychellois number, the phone code is optional.

Availability of Indian Cuisine in Seychelles

Seychelles has its own cuisine that is inspired by French, African, Indian, British and other European and Asian styles of cooking. However, if you want to give Seychellois food a miss and instead stick to Indian fare, there are few restaurants where you can dine.

Indian restaurants are more readily available in Mahé than on other islands. Praslin and La Digue barely have a couple of places where you will find some Indian dishes. Indian staples available in Seychelles are paneer preparations, vegetable curries, dhal (lentils), naan, roti, paratha, rice, seafood such as prawn curry and meats (an assortment of chicken and mutton dishes).

Vegetarians will always have something they can order from most restaurants in Seychelles even if the establishment does not cater specifically to vegetarians. Creole, Italian, Japanese and Chinese food served at most restaurants have plenty of vegetarian options such as saffron rice, Creole curry, pasta, pizza, miso soup, soba noodles, and more.

Seychellois cuisine itself has a handful of vegetarian specialities such as ladob (a plantain-based dessert flavoured with vanilla), chilli cakes ( gateau piment – lentil and chilli-based fritters served with dips), tropical fruits, coconut palm, papaya or mango salad, coconut based curries and cassava pudding.

Respect to Seychelles’ Culture & Sentiments

One of the smallest countries in the world, Seychelles has a fairly diverse mix of people with shared and distinct ethnicities. Seychelles’ history & culture are speckled with interactions of the native Africans with the French, British, Indians, Chinese and other Asians. The nation has a past infused with instances of slavery and imperialism. However, the present demographics reflect an independent, respectful, multicultural and tolerant attitude towards all.

While a majority of the population of Seychelles is Christian (including its various sects such as Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, Pentecostalism, Seventh-Day Adventism, Protestantism etc.), minority groups include Hindus, Muslims, and a few others. The country has no state religion, and the residents are free to practise their own religions.

What to Do and What Not To

Be mindful of certain things when out and about in Seychelles:

• Do not feed anything to the animals and sea birds you find in Seychelles. You may unintentionally end up poisoning them or (over a period of time) cause them to lose their natural scavenging instincts.
• Do not collect seashells as those as sometimes used by hermit crabs to rest. Seashell collection is prohibited in the marine parks and nature reserves in the country.
• Do not disturb tortoises and turtles or interfere in their nesting grounds. Many of the Seychellois turtles are protected species.
• One may not take back Seychelles’ native flora with them to their own country, unless one has an official export permit and a certificate which are to be furnished at the airport.

Tourists are largely free to wear what they wish. Trendy beachwear is welcome at the beaches and seafront cafés. However, when you visit a church, remember to cover up and dress soberly. The locals generally wear formals when they go to church.

What to Carry

Seychelles’ weather is rather balmy, with a hot sun shining down on you at most times of the day. It is recommended to carry sunscreen lotion and reapply the sunblock cream at regular intervals, especially when outdoors.

If you are planning to go on Seychelles walking tours , remember to wear a sturdy pair of shoes and carry a hat to stay safe from the strong sun. Light cotton clothes are better for this tropical island. Also note that it often rains in Seychelles, so an umbrella will help.

One cannot miss the opportunity of exploring the undersea when in Seychelles. This archipelago has plenty of reefs and dive sites to boast of. If you’ve booked Seychelles diving tours , it helps to have a waterproof camera like GoPro. For snorkelling, you can either bring your own gear or rent it here.

Remember to keep all your important documents such as passports, insurance vouchers and the bulk of your cash in the hotel safe. Only carry the amount of money that you think you will need each day. It is good to have a copy of your passport and hotel and flight booking vouchers (and not the originals) with you when you are out sightseeing.

Things to Note if Travelling with Kids

Choose Seychelles tour packages from India that are specially designed for tourists travelling with their babies, infants or young children if you have your kids in tow. Some handy information for the parents is enlisted below:

1.     A select few Seychelles resorts have dedicated kids’ clubs with attendants who will be able to babysit your toddlers and guide young adults through various games and activities while you enjoy your couple-spa or go on a dinner date.

2.     Seychelles is mostly a safe destination for travelling with kids as it falls outside the hurricane zone, is free of dangerous diseases, and also does not require certain vaccinations (unlike most other African and South American destinations).

3.     Beach visits for children are better early in the morning as that time is mostly crowd-free and the sun is not so hot.

4.     Seychelles has a lot of shallow-water beaches which are safe for young children to swim and play around in. In most cases, the depth is too low for adults to properly submerge.

Activities & Things to Do

There are so many activities to do in Seychelles that you will run out of time but not out of experiences! Take a look at some of the popular things to do in this magical holiday destination:

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving in Seychelles is not only for adults. Children as young as 10 years old can sign up for the Junior Open Water Diver Course. There are plenty of things to explore underwater. This part of the Indian Ocean has submerged reefs, overhangs and even caves that one can check out. Diving packages include the cost of gear such as wetsuit and oxygen.

Rock Climbing

Bursting with jungles and hills, Seychelles offers numerous destinations for hikes, trail walking and rock climbing. Head to La Digue to scale giant mountains of granite while wandering through protected national parks. The capital Mahé also boasts of tall peaks suitable of solo and tandem climbs for that adrenalin rush.

Snorkelling

One of the easiest things to enjoy on a vacation to Seychelles, snorkelling can be done even if you are not a swimmer or have little ones to take care of. Possible even in shallow waters, snorkelling allows toddlers to enjoy watching tropical fish, corals and other undersea creatures at leisure.

Walking Tours

There are many types of walking tours in Seychelles that one can choose from. Explore city sights in Victoria, explore the art scene of Mahé, or hop on a food tour that lets you taste everything – from seafood and chilli cakes to locally brewed alcohol and desserts. Some walks also help you understand the history of this East African archipelago while others focus on the architectural and cultural influences of Europe, Asia and Africa.

Island Hopping

Archipelago trips are wasted opportunities if you don’t do island hopping at least once. Seychelles has 115 officially recognized islands, and it’s possible to explore many of them on a cruise or liveaboard. Make sure you have Mahé, Cocos Island, Praslin, Grande Soeur, La Digue and Curieuse on your itinerary for the diverse experiences they offer. Don’t miss watching the coco de mer (sea coconut) trees which are found in no other place in the world except Seychelles.

The crystal clear waters of Seychelles are fun to do a canoe ride on. If you can’t get a dug-out canoe, even a fibreglass kayak will serve you well for a few hours of rowing in the sun. Health conscious travellers will get a nice workout when they take up canoeing on their Seychellois holiday.

What to do in Seychelles for Honeymoon

Get the most out of Seychelles honeymoon packages from India when you book a luxurious hotel stay with a private pool or a villa by the beach. Honeymooners can either have a relaxed time, with couple massages, cabana breakfasts by the beach or sunset cruises on their itinerary, or pick active and more immersive things to do such as cycling from one isle to another via the causeway, exploring the local markets or tandem hiking.

Sunbathing on a private beach is another tempting option. Show up in your brightly coloured bathing suit and slump on the loungers with your favourite cocktail in hand. Also, walking up a hill is a sure-fire way to catch a view that will make your honeymoon even more memorable.

What to do in Seychelles with Family

When travelling with family, especially one that includes aged members as well as very young one, one must plan with care to ensure all the age groups are comfortable. Seychelles half day tours are quite convenient as your sightseeing is wrapped up in 4 hours, with enough time to head back to your hotel to rest.

You can also opt for Seychelles island hopping tours that take you to marine reserves and nature parks. Children, in particular, will love interacting with the Aldabra giant tortoise or watching the hatching or release of Hawksbill sea turtles into the sea after their incubation.

What to do in Seychelles on a Budget

Seychelles is regarded as an expensive destination by many – mostly due to its exorbitantly priced luxury hotels and expensive speciality restaurants. However, budget travellers can scout for guest houses in Seychelles that won’t burn a hole in their pocket. If you get your own snorkel, mask and fins, you can practically snorkel for free here!

Seychelles on a budget can easily be enjoyed when you explore the sights on foot, eat Creole food from small cafés, shop from local markets, and sunbathe on the warm sands. Local ferries connecting one island to another also make your journey affordable.

What to do in Seychelles for Non Swimmers

If you cannot swim, there is no need to be disheartened. Apart from going on bike rides along the coast, steep hikes in the jungles, and gorging on Seychellois seafood, you can enjoy water sports that can be done even by non-swimmers.

Glass-bottom boat tours are perfect for those afraid of snorkelling while dolphin-watching cruises rival the sightings of sea turtles underwater. Parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides and windsurfing are some fun things to do since you’ll have a life jacket on. The lack of knowledge of swimming will not be a hindrance.

When you plan your holiday from India to Seychelles , experience a magical world that is sun-soaked and lively. Travel with an open-mind, and explore diverse forms of landscape – from beaches and lagoons to lush plantations and tall peaks. Only remember to rub enough sunscreen to keep safe in the strong sun!

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

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Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

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How to get a multi-year Schengen visa on your Indian passport

There's good news for indian passport holders who are planning to visit europe this summer. the eu is easing the schengen visa process for frequent travellers..

Listen to Story

• Visiting Europe is getting easier for Indian passport holders
• A new 'cascade' visa scheme will allow frequent travellers to get a multi-year multiple-entry Schengen visa
• However, you need to meet certain criteria to be able to apply for this 'cascade' visa

There's good news for Indian passport holders who want to visit Europe this year on. The European Union is looking to ease Schengen visa processes for Indian tourists.

European Union adopts more favourable Schengen visa rules for Indians

Indian Nationals can now apply for a multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity

On 18 April 2024, the European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the Visa Code that applied to date. This new visa ‘cascade’ regime for Indian nationals residing in India who apply for Schengen (short-stay) visas in India will provide easier access to visas with multi-year validity for travellers with an established travel history, if the passport validity allows. 

According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals.

This decision comes in the context of strengthened relations under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India, with facilitation of people-to-people contacts being of key aspect due to the importance of India as a partner for the EU. 

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.