Seychelles Visa from Dubai: Complete Guide 2026

Seychelles operates one of the most open border policies in the world. No country in the world requires a visa to visit Seychelles. Instead, all visitors receive a free visitor permit upon arrival at Seychelles International Airport on Mahe island. This permit is valid for the duration of your stay, up to a maximum of 3 months, and can be extended for an additional 3 months if needed.

While no visa is required, Seychelles immigration officers will check the following documents at the airport before issuing your visitor permit. Ensure you have all of these ready before you board your flight from Dubai.

1. 1Valid passport — must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Seychelles. While there is no strict 6-month rule, OraVisa recommends having at least 6 months validity as a best practice. Your passport must have at least one blank page for the entry stamp.
2. 2Return or onward flight ticket — you must show proof that you will leave Seychelles before your visitor permit expires. A confirmed return flight booking to Dubai (or any other destination) is required.
3. 3Confirmed accommodation booking — hotel reservation, resort booking, or guesthouse confirmation for every night of your stay. If staying with friends or family, a letter of invitation with the host's address and contact details.
4. 4Proof of sufficient funds — bank statement, credit card, cash, or a combination showing you have enough money to cover your stay. Seychelles is an expensive destination, so having at least USD 150-200 per day of your stay is advisable.
5. 5Completed Travel Authorisation (online) — Seychelles requires all travellers to complete an online travel authorisation form before arrival. This is a health and security declaration, not a visa.

In addition to the standard entry documents, Seychelles requires all arriving passengers to complete an online Travel Authorisation form before departure. This is a health and security declaration introduced to streamline arrivals and is not a visa. The form is free to complete and takes about 10 minutes.

1. 1Visit the official Seychelles Travel Authorisation portal before your travel date.
2. 2Create an account and fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel dates.
3. 3Enter your accommodation details in Seychelles (hotel name, address, booking reference).
4. 4Provide your flight details including airline, flight number, and arrival date.
5. 5Upload any required health documents if prompted (requirements may vary based on current health policies).
6. 6Submit the form and receive a confirmation via email. Save or print this confirmation.
7. 7Present the Travel Authorisation confirmation at check-in and on arrival in Seychelles.

The Travel Authorisation is typically approved quickly, often within hours. However, it is recommended to complete it at least 3 days before your departure to avoid any last-minute issues. Airlines may check for Travel Authorisation at check-in in Dubai.

One of the remarkable things about Seychelles is that the visa-free policy applies equally to every nationality. Unlike many destinations where entry rules differ dramatically by passport, Seychelles treats all visitors the same.

This universal visa-free policy makes Seychelles especially attractive for Dubai residents holding passports from countries that normally face strict visa requirements at many destinations. Whether you hold an Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, or Nigerian passport, you enter Seychelles on the same terms as any other traveller.

Seychelles is a premium destination that requires some planning to make the most of your trip. Here are essential travel tips for Dubai residents planning a Seychelles holiday.

• Direct flights from Dubai to Mahe operate via Emirates and Air Seychelles, taking approximately 4.5 hours. Book well in advance during peak season (December-January, April, July-August) as seats fill quickly.
• Seychelles uses the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), but euros and US dollars are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available on Mahe and Praslin.
• Seychelles is an expensive destination — budget at least USD 150-200 per person per day for mid-range travel. Luxury resorts can cost significantly more.
• The best time to visit is during the transition months of April-May and October-November when weather is calm and tourist numbers are lower.
• Island-hopping is a highlight — take the ferry or domestic flight from Mahe to Praslin (home to Vallee de Mai) and La Digue (known for Anse Source d'Argent beach).
• Travel insurance is not mandatory for entry but is strongly recommended. Medical facilities on the islands are limited, and medical evacuation can be very expensive.