Work permits and visas in Seychelles

Seychelles offers a structured system for foreign nationals seeking to live and work within its borders. Understanding the various visa categories and work permit requirements is crucial for both individuals and employers. The primary mechanism for foreign workers to gain legal employment is through a specific work permit, which is closely linked to the individual's visa status upon entry or application.

Navigating the application processes involves specific documentation, adherence to eligibility criteria, and coordination between the prospective employee and the sponsoring employer. Compliance with immigration and labor laws is an ongoing obligation throughout the duration of employment.

Common Visa Types for Foreign Workers

While a standard visitor's permit allows entry for tourism or short business trips, it does not permit employment. Foreign nationals intending to work in Seychelles must obtain a specific authorization, primarily the Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP).

Visa/Permit Type	Purpose	Allows Employment?	Typical Duration
Visitor's Permit	Tourism, visiting family/friends, short business	No	Up to 3 months initially, extendable
Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP)	To live and work in Seychelles	Yes	Varies based on contract, typically 1-2 years, renewable

The Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) is the essential permit for any non-Seychellois national wishing to be gainfully occupied in Seychelles, whether as an employee or a self-employed person.

Work Permit Application Requirements and Procedures

The Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) application process involves both the prospective employer and the employee. The employer typically initiates the application.

Eligibility Criteria

• The applicant must have a valid job offer from a Seychelles-based employer.
• The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a suitably qualified Seychellois national.
• The applicant must meet specific health and character requirements.
• The applicant must possess the necessary qualifications, skills, or experience for the position.

Required Documentation

Common documents required for a GOP application include:

• Completed application form.
• Passport copy (valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay).
• Passport-sized photographs.
• Employment contract signed by both employer and employee.
• Copies of educational certificates and professional qualifications.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Medical examination report from a registered medical practitioner.
• Police clearance certificate from the applicant's home country and any country where they have resided for more than six months in the past year.
• Employer's documents (e.g., business registration, license).
• Justification from the employer on the need to employ a foreign national.

Application Procedure

1. Employer Submission: The prospective employer submits the GOP application form and supporting documents to the relevant authorities (typically the Department of Employment and the Department of Immigration).
2. Assessment: The application is assessed based on labor market needs, the applicant's qualifications, and compliance with immigration regulations.
3. Approval in Principle: If approved, an 'approval in principle' is issued.
4. Visa Application (if applicable): The employee may need to apply for an entry visa or convert their status upon arrival, depending on their nationality and current location.
5. Permit Issuance: Upon arrival in Seychelles (if applicable) and completion of any necessary entry procedures, the final GOP is issued.

Processing Times and Fees

Processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and the complexity of the case, but typically range from a few weeks to a couple of months.

Fees are associated with both the application submission and the issuance of the permit. These fees are subject to change, but generally involve:

• An application processing fee (non-refundable).
• A permit issuance fee, often calculated based on the duration of the permit (e.g., monthly or annual fee).

Specific fee amounts should be confirmed with the relevant Seychelles authorities or through the sponsoring employer/EOR service.

Sponsorship Requirements

The employer acts as the sponsor for the GOP application. This involves:

• Initiating and submitting the application.
• Providing necessary company documentation.
• Justifying the need for foreign labor.
• Often being responsible for the employee's repatriation costs if the employment ends.

Pathways to Permanent Residency

Gaining permanent residency in Seychelles is a separate process from obtaining a work permit and typically requires a significant period of legal residence in the country, often under a GOP or other long-term permit.

Eligibility criteria for permanent residency usually include:

• A minimum period of continuous legal residence (e.g., 5 or 10 years).
• Demonstrated contribution to the Seychelles economy or society.
• Clean criminal record.
• Financial stability.
• Integration into the community.

The application process involves submitting a formal application to the Department of Immigration with extensive documentation proving eligibility. The decision is made based on a comprehensive assessment of the applicant's circumstances and the national interest.

Dependent Visa Options

Foreign nationals holding a valid Gainful Occupation Permit can typically apply for permits or visas for their eligible dependents to reside with them in Seychelles.

Eligible dependents usually include:

• Spouse (legally married partner).
• Dependent children (typically under 18 years old, or older if disabled and dependent).

The application for dependent permits is usually submitted concurrently with or after the main GOP holder's application is approved. Required documentation for dependents includes:

• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates).
• Passport copies.
• Passport-sized photographs.
• Medical examination reports.
• Police clearance certificates (for adult dependents).
• Proof of the main GOP holder's valid permit and financial capacity to support dependents.

Dependents are generally not permitted to work in Seychelles unless they obtain their own Gainful Occupation Permit based on separate employment.

Visa Compliance Obligations

Both employers and employees have significant obligations to ensure compliance with Seychelles immigration and labor laws.

Employer Obligations

• Ensure the employee has a valid GOP before they commence work.
• Adhere to the terms and conditions specified in the GOP and the employment contract.
• Notify the authorities of any changes to the employee's employment status (e.g., termination, change in role).
• Ensure the employee's permit is renewed in a timely manner if their employment continues.
• Maintain accurate records of foreign employees.
• Facilitate the employee's departure from Seychelles upon termination of employment, including potential repatriation costs as per the law or contract.
• Comply with all relevant labor laws, including wages, working hours, and conditions.

Employee Obligations

• Hold a valid GOP and entry visa (if applicable) at all times while working in Seychelles.
• Adhere to the conditions of their permit (e.g., only work for the sponsoring employer in the approved role).
• Notify the authorities of any significant changes in personal circumstances (e.g., change of address, marital status).
• Not engage in any other form of gainful occupation without proper authorization.
• Depart Seychelles upon the expiry or cancellation of their GOP unless a renewal or change of status has been approved.
• Comply with all Seychelles laws and regulations.

Failure to comply with these obligations can result in penalties, including fines, permit cancellation, deportation, and legal action against both the employer and the employee. Maintaining strict adherence to the regulations is essential for legal and uninterrupted employment in Seychelles.