In line with the announcement made by the Seychelles Department of Immigration and Civil Status on Monday, 4th November 2024, Seychelles will be introducing a Maritime Travel Authorisation (MTA) requirement for international passengers arriving by sea.
The Maritime Travel Authorisation requirement, which took effect on November 4th, 2024, became mandatory starting December 1st, 2024. Passengers arriving by cruise ship or private yacht will now need to apply for their travel authorisation online prior to their arrival in Seychelles.
To support a smooth transition, the Department of Immigration and Civil Status has confirmed a one-month adaptation period, allowing all stakeholders to become familiar with the updated procedures.
The Maritime Travel Authorisation will closely mirror the procedures currently in place for air travel, travellers can submit their TA/Disembarkation Information Form up to 30 days before arrival or at the last port of departure to Seychelles.
While the core entry requirements remain unchanged, this clarification reinforces that all sea arrivals—including those who will not disembark — must follow the same entry procedures as air travellers. This means that all visitors, including those aboard cruise ships or yachts, must complete the Maritime Travel Authorisation form in advance.
Exemptions will be applied to seafarers/crew who are disembarking from maritime vessels and leaving the country by air on the same day; these individuals will not need to apply for the travel authorisation. However, seafarers/crew and visitors planning to stay at a tourism establishment are required to complete the application.
Seychelles continues to offer a visa-free entry policy, welcoming travellers from around the world to visit the islands without the need for a visa. However, visitors must ensure they have the necessary travel documents for entry, including a valid passport or other government-recognised travel documents. The passport must have at least six months of validity remaining and must be valid for the entire duration of the stay, including re-entry to the traveller’s home country or country of residence. Children are also required to have identification, such as a child passport, for entry.
In addition to the standard travel documents, visitors must meet other entry requirements, including proof of accommodation for the duration of their stay. This could be a hotel booking or a letter from a family member or friend confirming accommodation. Visitors must also present a valid return or onward ticket and demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their stay in Seychelles.
Tourism Seychelles strongly encourages all visitors to take note of these updated entry requirements and complete the necessary forms in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient arrival process.
The Seychelles Tourism Department remains committed to providing a safe, seamless, and welcoming experience for all visitors. We look forward to welcoming travellers from around the world to enjoy the stunning beauty, vibrant culture, and exceptional natural wonders of our island paradise.
