Are you planning a trip to the Seychelles and wondering what you need to do to apply for a visa? Find out about the legal and financial obligations linked to theelectronic travel authorisation (ETA) for this country is essential. In this article, we'll be revealing all the information you need to know about costs associated with an ETA application for Seychelles.
ETA: What is it?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation system, known as the ETA, is a online form for a fee which enables travellers wishing to visit certain countries, including the Seychelles, to have their request for authorisation checked and validated. This document contains a number of personal details about the applicant as well as information about the planned stay.
This travel formality was introduced to simplify immigration procedures and facilitate border controls. Even before departure, the authorities in the destination country can grant or refuse access to the country. The ETA must generally be presented together with the passport when it is checked by the immigration authorities on entry to the country concerned.
How much does an ETA application cost?
Payment of official fees
The ETA application fees may vary depending on the country or the service provider appointed to carry out these procedures. In the case of the Seychelles, you should be aware that from 1 October 2020, all travellers will have to pay a new Environmental and Health Tax (SET) when applying for an entry visa, including online applications via ETA.
This additional tax, introduced by the Seychelles government, aims to ensure optimum protection of the country's environmental quality and to support health measures designed to protect the health of tourists and the local population. It is payable even if entry to Seychelles does not require a visa for certain nationals, including those from the European Union.
Cost of online processing services
To make things easier for you and speed up the procedure, there are online platforms that offer to take charge of your ETA application for a fee. These professional service providers generally offer full, personalised monitoring of your application, with assistance available 24/7 if you need it.
However, these services come at an additional cost, which varies depending on the agency and the level of service offered. In addition to the official fees associated with your visa or electronic travel authorisation application, you should therefore expect to spend an extra amount to benefit from the support of a private service provider. Before using this type of service, it is advisable to compare the offers and prices proposed by several companies.
How do I apply for an ETA?
Online form
To apply for an ETA for Seychelles, start by filling in the online form on the official Seychelles government website or via a platform specialising in the management of administrative procedures relating to international travel. Carefully check all the information you enter and make sure it is accurate and matches the information in your passport.
Documents required
When you apply for an ETA, you should bring the following documents with you: your passport, valid for at least 1 month from the date of your departure from Seychelles, a recent passport-size photo that meets the required standards, your return air ticket and proof of accommodation.
To ensure the validity of your electronic travel authorisation, don't forget to confirm and submit your personal details and information on your travel to the Seychelles (dates, accommodation, etc.)and attach any additional documents requested during the procedure.
When will I receive my ETA?
The time taken to process and obtain an ETA application for Seychelles is generally fast, averaging 3 daysThis may vary depending on the number of applications received and the speed of the administrative services. It is therefore advisable not to wait until the last minute to make your request.
As soon as your electronic travel authorisation is granted, you will receive an e-mail with all the necessary information and a link to download the ETA in digital or paper form. Although communication between the IT systems of different countries makes border checks much easier, it is always advisable to print out and keep a copy of this important document during your stay abroad.
Refusal of ETA
If your application is refused, make sure you have provided all the information correctly and do not hesitate to contact the relevant departments or the service provider who managed your file if necessary. Some errors in the documents can be corrected quickly, while other more complex situations may require a new application for electronic travel authorisation.
An agency service 