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🇸🇨 Seychelles

Moving Guide

Moving to Seychelles requires less bureaucratic complexity than many countries — no pre-arrival visa, straightforward nomad visa application, and English as an official language simplify the process. The main challenges are finding housing remotely, managing the high cost of shipping goods, and adjusting to island-scale infrastructure..

All nationalities

Visa on Arrival

Up to 3 months

$50 online

Nomad Visa

Workcation program

$3,000–$6,000

Shipping (20ft container)

From Europe/US

May–September

Best Time to Arrive

Dry season

Overview

Moving to Seychelles requires less bureaucratic complexity than many countries — no pre-arrival visa, straightforward nomad visa application, and English as an official language simplify the process. The main challenges are finding housing remotely, managing the high cost of shipping goods, and adjusting to island-scale infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply for the Workcation Retreat Program online if planning to work remotely (processing: 5–10 days)
  • 20ft container (Europe to Seychelles): $3,000–$5,000; transit time 4–6 weeks
  • Rent a car immediately — essential for house-hunting and exploring Mahé ($30–$50/day)
1

Before You Move — Checklist

Preparing for a move to Seychelles is simpler than for most countries, but there are key steps to complete before departure. The biggest decision is whether to come on a visitor's permit first (to scout housing and settle in) or to arrange everything remotely.

  • Apply for the Workcation Retreat Program online if planning to work remotely (processing: 5–10 days)
  • Arrange health insurance with medical evacuation cover — required for nomad visa and strongly recommended regardless
  • Book short-term accommodation (Airbnb, guesthouse) for your first 2–4 weeks while you search for long-term housing
  • Bring 3–6 months supply of any specialty medications — availability in Seychelles is limited
  • Get an international driving permit if you plan to rent a car (valid alongside your home license)
  • Notify your bank about your relocation to avoid card blocks when transacting in SCR
  • Research school options early if moving with children — International School Seychelles has waiting lists
2

Shipping Your Belongings

Shipping to Seychelles is expensive due to its remote island location. Most expats bring essentials in luggage and buy locally or ship a small number of items. Full container shipping from Europe or the US costs $3,000–$6,000+ for a 20ft container and takes 4–8 weeks by sea.

  • 20ft container (Europe to Seychelles): $3,000–$5,000; transit time 4–6 weeks
  • 20ft container (US to Seychelles): $4,000–$6,000; transit time 6–8 weeks
  • Main port: Port Victoria on Mahé — all international shipping arrives here
  • Import duties: apply to most goods; electronics and appliances subject to 15% GST + customs duty
  • Duty-free allowance: personal effects and household goods may qualify for reduced rates with proper documentation
  • Tip: ship only what you can't buy locally — furniture and appliances are available in Victoria, though expensive
  • Prohibited items: drugs, weapons, spear guns (without permit), certain plant and animal products
3

Your First Weeks in Seychelles

Your first weeks should focus on securing long-term housing, setting up essential services, and getting oriented. Seychelles is small enough that you can explore Mahé thoroughly in a few days. Having a car (rental) for the first month makes house-hunting and settling in much easier.

  • Rent a car immediately — essential for house-hunting and exploring Mahé ($30–$50/day)
  • Buy a local SIM card: Airtel from any phone shop in Victoria — prepaid plans from SCR 100 ($7)
  • Open a bank account: visit Nouvobanq or SCB in Victoria with your passport, permit, and proof of address
  • Register with a local GP or visit a health centre to establish your medical access
  • Explore neighbourhoods: spend time in Beau Vallon, Victoria, Anse Royale, and Bel Ombre before committing to a lease
  • Visit Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market in Victoria — great introduction to local food and culture
  • Join Facebook groups: 'Expats in Seychelles', 'Seychelles Community' for housing leads and social connections
FAQs

Common Questions — Moving Guide in Seychelles

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