Seychelles: Updated COVID-19 measures in place nationwide as of Jan. 18 /update 12

Event

As of Jan. 18, authorities in Seychelles have implemented additional restrictions in continued efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This decision comes after a rise in the number of reported COVID-19 infections and the first related death. Amended regulations in place are as follows:

International Travel
Travelers to Seychelles have been classed as Category 1 and 2; Category 1 comprise low and medium risk countries as decided by authorities. Category 2 comprise special status countries as also decided by the authorities.

• Category-1 travelers must provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within a maximum of 72 hours before departure. Travelers must also submit their negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test results, flight, and accommodation details before departure. Visitors must make accommodation booking at establishments certified by the authorities. All arrivals by yachts must apply for entry into the country and may only come ashore 10 days after departing their last destination. Passengers may only disembark after 10 days of daily temperature and health checks recorded over the last 10 days prior to arrival. Travelers must also provide a negative PCR test. Cruise ships from any country are not permitted to berth in the country until further notice. Travelers will be required to self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival at accommodation provided by health authorities. Travelers staying for eight days or more will be required to undertake a test on the sixth day after arrival.

• Category-2 travelers must have a negative COVID-19 PCR certificate from an accredited laboratory within 48 hours prior to departure from the country of origin. Travelers arriving either by commercial flights or charter flights are required to spend the first ten nights in a category-2-certified establishment and may not leave the premises. A test will be conducted on the sixth day. Flights from the UK to the country are suspended until further notice.

Domestic Restrictions:

• All restaurants apart from those at guest houses and hotels are closed until further notice. Establishments open are only to serve those staying at hotels and guest houses.

• Al exercise activities are suspended, except for individual sports involving members from the same household.

• All nonessential businesses are closed until further notice. Supermarkets are permitted to operate in their current times, but with increased social distancing and sanitization protocols. Hardware stores are open between 0800-1200.

• No visitors at hospitals are permitted.

• Public swimming pools are closed until further notice.

• Locals are encouraged to work from home where possible; otherwise, they should only limit their travel to workplace and home location.

• The wearing of protective facemasks remains compulsory in public spaces.

Much of the business and retail sector, including postal service, tourism, schools, and indoor religious services, can reopen. Persons contravening movement and social distancing measures will be subject to a fine or arrest. Authorities will probably amend measures on short notice if the number of COVID-19 cases increases.

Advice

Follow all official instructions and consult the Ministry of Tourism for complete information regarding travel in Seychelles. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

World Health Organisation (WHO)
Ministry of Public Health and Hygiene
Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine
Seychelles Islands Travel Authorization