When do I need to apply for Seychelles entry permit?

**Seychelles does not require advance visa applications** – you receive a free Visitor's Permit on arrival at Seychelles International Airport on Mahé. There's no online visa or ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system to complete before your trip, unlike many other destinations. As long as you meet the entry requirements, immigration will stamp your passport with a permit valid for up to 3 months initially.

**What You Need on Arrival:** To receive your Visitor's Permit, you must present: - **Valid passport** (must be valid for duration of stay) - **Return or onward ticket** (proof you're leaving Seychelles) - **Accommodation confirmation** (hotel booking, rental agreement, or host's details) - **Proof of sufficient funds** (credit cards, cash, bank statements)

No health declaration forms or advance immigration paperwork is required as of current regulations. The immigration process at Seychelles International Airport is straightforward and typically takes 10-20 minutes unless you arrive with multiple large flights.

**Vaccination Requirements:** Seychelles does **not require any mandatory vaccinations** for visitors from the UK or most countries. Yellow fever vaccination is only required if you're arriving from a yellow fever endemic country (mainly certain African and South American nations). For UK visitors traveling in April or any time of year, no jabs are compulsory, though your GP may recommend routine vaccinations like Hepatitis A or typhoid as general travel precautions.

**Pro Tips from Immigration:** Have your accommodation details easily accessible on your phone or printed – immigration officers will ask where you're staying. If you're island hopping and staying at multiple properties, have your first accommodation ready to show. **Book your accommodation before arrival** – immigration can refuse entry if you can't demonstrate where you'll be staying, though this rarely happens with genuine tourists.

The initial permit is typically granted for your intended stay (up to 3 months). If you need to extend beyond 3 months, visit the Immigration Office in Victoria on Mahé, though most tourists visit for 1-2 weeks. Keep your passport safe throughout your stay – you'll need it for inter-island ferry travel and when departing.

Seychelles' visa-on-arrival system makes entry simple for tourists from all countries. Focus your pre-trip preparation on booking accommodation and arranging travel insurance rather than worrying about visa applications.