Can foreigners buy property in Seychelles?

Yes, but with restrictions. Purchases outside Eden Island require government approval under the Immovable Property Act, which is not automatically granted. Eden Island is the exception — foreigners can freely buy freehold property there. Most expats rent rather than buy due to these restrictions and the high entry price point.

How do I find rental apartments in Seychelles?

The market is small and much of it operates through word-of-mouth and local agents. Start with MyPropertySeychelles.com and Arriva Real Estate online, then join Seychelles-focused Facebook expat groups. Once on the ground, local agents and community notice boards yield the best results. Finding housing before arrival is challenging — many expats book a short-term Airbnb first and search in person.

Are furnished apartments available?

Yes, particularly in tourist areas like Beau Vallon and Eden Island. Expect a 20–30% premium over unfurnished units. Furnished apartments are ideal for nomad visa holders on 6–12 month stays. For longer stays, renting unfurnished and buying basic furniture locally or second-hand is more economical.

What should I know about electricity costs?

Electricity is expensive in Seychelles because much of it is generated from imported diesel fuel. Air conditioning is the biggest cost driver — a small apartment using AC regularly can see bills of $150–$250/month. Many expats use fans and natural ventilation (trade winds help) to keep costs down. Solar water heaters are common and reduce bills.

Is Eden Island worth the premium?

Eden Island offers a lifestyle that is unique in Seychelles: modern apartments, a private marina, restaurants, a gym, and a beach — all in a gated, well-maintained development. For expats who want resort-style convenience and security, it's the most comfortable option. However, rents are 2–3× higher than standard Mahé apartments, and it can feel isolated from authentic Seychellois life.

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🇸🇨 Seychelles

Housing

$1,000–$1,550/mo

1-BR Beau Vallon

Mahé, popular area

$560–$1,000/mo

1-BR Praslin

More affordable

$1,400–$2,500/mo

Eden Island Apt.

Luxury marina

Restricted

Foreign Purchase

Government approval needed

Last updated: March 2026

Overview🏙️Victoria (Mahé)🌴Praslin

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Overview

Housing in Seychelles ranges from simple local apartments to luxury marina residences on Eden Island. The rental market is relatively small and moves fast — start searching early and be prepared to commit quickly. Foreigners face restrictions on property purchase (government approval required), making renting the default for most expats.

Key Takeaways

Typical lease: 6–12 months; shorter terms available at higher rates
Foreigners need government approval (Immovable Property Act) to purchase outside Eden Island
Budget ($500–$800/mo): Anse Royale, Takamaka (south Mahé), Grand'Anse (Praslin)
Electricity: SCR 3.25–5.00 per kWh — use air conditioning sparingly to control costs

Renting in Seychelles

Most expats rent in Seychelles, and the rental market is small compared to larger countries. Finding an apartment typically involves local real estate agents, word-of-mouth, and online listings. Furnished apartments are available at a premium, particularly in tourist areas. Long-term leases (6–12 months) offer better rates than month-to-month arrangements.

Typical lease: 6–12 months; shorter terms available at higher rates
Deposit: 1–2 months rent required upfront
Furnished vs. unfurnished: furnished apartments carry a 20–30% premium
Most apartments include basic appliances (fridge, stove); air conditioning varies
Key platforms: MyPropertySeychelles.com, Arriva Real Estate, local Facebook groups
Real estate agents: commission is typically one month's rent, usually paid by the tenant
Utilities (electricity, water) are usually paid separately by the tenant

Buying Property as a Foreigner

Foreign property ownership in Seychelles is restricted and requires government approval through the Seychelles Investment Board. The exception is Eden Island, a freehold marina development where foreigners can buy apartments and villas without special approval. Property prices on Eden Island start from $350,000 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Foreigners need government approval (Immovable Property Act) to purchase outside Eden Island
Eden Island: freehold purchases available to foreigners — no government approval needed
Eden Island prices: 1-BR apartment from $350,000; villas from $800,000+
Stamp duty: 5% of property purchase price
Annual property tax: based on assessed rental value
Mortgage availability: limited for non-residents; most foreign buyers purchase outright
Legal representation: recommended — use a Seychelles-licensed attorney for property transactions

Best Areas to Live by Budget

Your budget largely determines where you'll live in Seychelles. Mahé offers the widest range from budget-friendly southern areas to luxury Eden Island. Praslin is 20–30% cheaper overall. La Digue is the most affordable but the most isolated, with very limited rental stock.

Budget ($500–$800/mo): Anse Royale, Takamaka (south Mahé), Grand'Anse (Praslin)
Mid-range ($800–$1,400/mo): Beau Vallon, Victoria/English River, Anse Volbert (Praslin)
High-end ($1,400–$2,500/mo): Bel Ombre, north Mahé hillside, Anse Lazio area (Praslin)
Luxury ($2,500+/mo): Eden Island, Four Seasons residences, exclusive north Mahé properties
La Digue: limited stock, $490–$850/mo for 1-BR — suits those wanting ultra-quiet island life
Short-term Airbnb: $50–$150/night depending on location and season

Utilities & Internet Setup

Utilities in Seychelles are managed by the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC) for electricity and water. Internet is provided by Cable & Wireless Seychelles (CWS/Airtel) and Intelvision. Electricity costs can be high due to reliance on diesel generators, though solar adoption is growing.

Electricity: SCR 3.25–5.00 per kWh — use air conditioning sparingly to control costs
Monthly electricity bill (small apartment, moderate AC use): SCR 1,500–3,500 ($105–$250)
Water: PUC supply; monthly cost SCR 200–500 ($14–$35)
Internet (fibre): SCR 600–1,200/month ($42–$85) for 20–100 Mbps plans
Providers: Airtel Seychelles (formerly CWS), Intelvision (fibre to select areas)
Mobile data: Airtel and Intelvision; 4G coverage on Mahé and Praslin; prepaid SIM from SCR 100
Setup fees: typically SCR 500–1,000 for new internet connection

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