Work visas
Seychellois Gainful Occupation Permit (Work Permit)
The permit every non-Seychellois needs to work in Seychelles, whether they are employed or self-employed.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Seychelles government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP)
- Route type
- Work permit (employed or self-employed)
- Processing fee
- SCR 1,000
- Permit fee
- SCR 500 per month or part thereof, payable on submission
- Processing time
- Collectable 1-5 days after submission
Who it is for
- Non-Seychellois taking up employment in Seychelles
- Self-employed non-Seychellois
- Foreign nationals setting up a business (after Seychelles Investment Board approval)
Requirements
- Employees: prior approval from the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs
- Application form completed by the prospective employer, or by the self-employed applicant
- All supporting documents from the ICS checklist to avoid delays
- New businesses: a Project Memorandum submitted to the Seychelles Investment Board
- The worker must not enter Seychelles to take up employment before the GOP is granted
What you can do
- Work legally in Seychelles as an employee or self-employed person for the duration of the permit
How to apply
- The employer (or self-employed applicant) submits the application with the processing fee and permit fee
- Applications are processed by the ICS Work Permit Section
- The permit can usually be collected 1-5 days after submission
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.