The Seychelles, a paradise archipelago in the Indian Ocean, attracts thousands of travellers every year thanks to its idyllic beaches, tropical climate and exceptional marine wildlife. Whether it's for a cruise, a stopover during a round-the-world sailing trip or simply to enjoy the islands aboard a yacht, many people choose to arrive in the Seychelles by sea. However, the question often arises: Do I need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Seychelles by boat?
Visa waiver for travellers arriving in Seychelles
Another of Seychelles' tourist attractions is the ease with which international travellers can access the country. Unlike many destinations, the Seychelles archipelago applies a visa waiver system for nationals of almost all countries. There is no need to apply for a visa at an embassy or consulate before departure. However, as with any entry into a foreign country, certain conditions must be met.
Seychelles entry permit: conditions to be met
Before boarding your boat for the Seychelles, make sure you have the following documents:
- A valid passport Passport requirements: All travellers wishing to enter Seychelles must be in possession of a passport valid for longer than the intended stay. It is recommended that the passport be valid for 1 month beyond the planned return date.
- Return or onward tickets Leaving Seychelles: to prove your intention to leave Seychelles at the end of your stay, you will need to present an exit ticket, whether it is a plane ticket, boat ticket or other. Note that this may be required even if you arrive by sea.
- Proof of accommodation This proof may be in the form of a hotel reservation, an invitation from a Seychelles resident or other. The contact details of the establishment or person accommodating you are also required.
- Sufficient funds for the stay Although the minimum amounts are not clearly defined, it is generally recommended to have at least USD 150 per person per day to cover expenses on site.
By presenting these documents when you arrive in Seychelles, a "Visitor's Permit" stamp will be placed in your passportThis permit gives you the right to stay in the archipelago for a set period, generally up to 90 days. This permit can also be extended on the spot if necessary.
Electronic travel authorisation (ETA) not required for Seychelles
It is important to note that the Seychelles authorities do not currently require an ETA or prior authorisation online to enter the Seychelles, by sea. Whether you arrive by boat or not, your visit permit will be issued on arrival in the archipelago, provided you present all the required documents mentioned above.
Why do some countries require an ETA?
More and more countries are introducing electronic travel authorisation systems, such as ESTA in the United States, e-Visa in India and AVE in Canada. The main aim of these systems is to facilitate and accelerate the entry process on their territory for international travellers. These authorisations also enable governments to strengthen security and better manage migratory flows.
However, Seychelles has chosen to maintain a more flexible entry regime to encourage tourism, with a visa waiver and no online application for prior authorisation for nationals of almost all countries (with a few exceptions). So, when arriving by sea in the Seychelles, you won't have to worry about an ETAYou'll be able to make the most of your stay on this paradise archipelago.
Useful information for a trip to the Seychelles by boat
Formalities for a cruise to the Seychelles
If you are planning to discover the Seychelles on a cruise, you should be aware that several companies offer itineraries that include stopovers in the archipelago. If this is the case, it is highly likely that your cruise line will take care of the entry formalities for you, in particular by providing the local authorities with the passenger list before your arrival.
However, we strongly recommend that you check with your cruise company what steps you need to take and what documents you will need to present to ensure that everything runs smoothly during your stopover in Seychelles.
Sailing between the islands of the Seychelles: what are the regulations?
Finally, if you are planning to sail between the various islands of the Seychelles on your own yacht or a charter yacht, there are a number of rules that must be observed:
- Choosing anchorages, ports and sailing areas Some areas of the Seychelles are protected and not accessible to pleasure boats. It is therefore vital to find out about authorised areas and regulated anchorages before you arrive.
- Customs formalities If you are entering the Seychelles aboard a sailboat or yacht, you should be aware that you will have to complete certain formalities with the local customs authorities. Allow plenty of time to complete these formalities, and find out what documents are required beforehand.
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