Since December 1, the Seychelles Department of Immigration and Civil Status has mandated a Maritime Travel Authorisation (MTA) for all international passengers arriving by sea, including those on cruise ships and private yachts. This requirement is part of Seychelles’ efforts to align maritime entry procedures with those already in place for air travel.
Key details of the MTA requirement:
- Application process: Travellers must complete their travel authorisation/disembarkation information form online either up to 30 days before arrival or at their last port of departure before reaching Seychelles.
- Entry requirements: Visitors arriving by sea, even if they do not disembark, must comply with the MTA process.
- Exemptions: Seafarers/crew disembarking from vessels and departing Seychelles by air on the same day are exempt. Seafarers/crew and visitors staying at a tourism establishment must complete the application.
Entry policies and supporting documents
Seychelles maintains its visa-free entry policy but travellers must ensure they meet all standard entry requirements including:
- A passport valid for at least six months.
- Proof of accommodation such as a hotel booking or a letter from a host.
- A return or onward ticket.
- Sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay.
Children are required to have identification, such as a child passport, for entry.
To ease implementation, Seychelles is allowing stakeholders one month to become familiar with the updated procedures.
