The dream of the Seychelles, its heavenly beaches and lush natural surroundings attract travellers from all over the world. If you're planning a trip to the Seychelles for more than 90 days, it's essential to know what you need to do beforehand to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch. If you hold a valid passport, find out what formalities you need to complete to obtain the necessary authorisation and make the most of your holiday.
Visa application to travel to Seychelles for more than 90 days
To visit Seychelles beyond the 90-day period authorised by a simple visa waiver, you need to obtain a visa from the Seychelles authorities for extended stay. It can be valid for up to 12 months and is renewable. Here are the steps to follow:
Submitting the visa application
Before you leave, find out about the conditions for obtaining an extended visa. Certain specific situations require a valid reason for obtaining this authorisation, such as work, study or family. Once you have read the criteria, you will need to compile a file containing a duly completed visa application form and the required documents.
Documents required to apply for a visa
To compile your application, you will need to provide a number of documents, some of which are listed below. information essential. Here is a non-exhaustive list:
- The copy of the passport and two recent passport photographs
- Proof of reception or booking of accommodation on site for the duration of the stay
- Proof of sufficient financial resources to ensure self-sufficiency during the stay (the minimum required will depend on the length of the stay)
- A return or onward ticket, with precise dates of arrival in and departure from Seychelles
- A medical certificate stating that the applicant is in good health and free from contagious diseases
- Payment of visa application fees.
Please note that the Seychelles authorities may require additional documents depending on the reason for and nature of the extended stay. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that all items are complete and comply with the requirements. Applications for long-stay visas are generally made at a Seychelles embassy or consulate.
Taking out travel insurance for a long-term stay in the Seychelles
Although optional, subscribing to a travel insurance adapted to a long-term stay in the Seychelles may prove wise. It will enable you to be covered for the risks associated with your trip and to enjoy your stay with peace of mind. Most insurance companies offer cover for :
- Medical and hospital expenses in the event of illness or accident during the stay
- Medical repatriation, if necessary
- Cancellation or interruption of the trip for a valid reason (serious illness, death of relatives, redundancy, etc.).
- Loss, theft or damage to luggage
- Civil liability for any damage caused to others.
To find the right insurance for your profile and your needs, don't hesitate to compare offers and rates from different insurers. Several online comparators are also available to make this process easier.
Comply with the conditions for entering Seychelles
To avoid any problems when you arrive in Seychelles, it is important to be aware of the rules in force concerning entry to the country. These include formalitiesThese include:
- The requirement to present a passport with an expiry date of more than 6 months after the planned date of departure from Seychelles.
- A return or onward ticket showing that you will be leaving Seychelles at the end of your stay.
- Proof of accommodation booked and paid for (hotel, guesthouse, flat, etc.).
- No criminal record and no current criminal sentence.
It is also important to check that you have all the documents required by the Seychelles authorities when you pass through customs. A strict check of supporting documents is carried out on arrival, and travellers who do not meet the requirements may be refused entry.
Travelling to the Seychelles for more than 90 days: practical advice
To make the most of your extended stay in the Seychelles, here are a few useful tips :
- Anticipate your administrative procedures as far as possible and prepare all documents required in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises when you leave
- Register on the Ariane platform of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate communication with the French authorities in the event of a problem or need for assistance in the country.
- Don't hesitate to consult various information sites and travel forums for advice and opinions on the formalities and procedures involved in a long-term stay in the Seychelles.