Seychelles: COVID-19 measures tightened nationwide through May 21 /update 17

Event

COVID-19-related restrictions in place in Seychelles were tightened May 4-21. The update follows an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country. Under new measures, a nightly 23:00-04:00 curfew is in place until further notice. Only essential workers who possess the necessary permit may be outside their homes during curfew hours. Shops, bars, casinos, and other businesses will be expected to operate shorter business hours. Schools will be closed during this period. The use of facemasks is compulsory in public spaces, and gatherings with individuals outside one's household are banned.

International travel restrictions remain unchanged, and travelers are allowed to enter the country regardless of vaccine status; however, they must provide a negative result from a COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours prior to departure for Seychelles. Visitors must also submit a Health Travel Authorisation document and stay at locations approved by the authorities. Residents do not need to quarantine if arriving with valid proof of vaccination; however, those who have not been vaccinated must quarantine for seven days and must undergo a PCR test after five days in isolation. This test is free of charge.

Individuals traveling from countries with variant strains of the virus or which are experiencing high infection rates, including South Africa, Brazil, and India, are temporarily banned from travel to Seychelles. All arrivals by yacht must apply for entry into the country and may only come ashore 14 days after departing their last destination. Passengers may disembark early if they take a PCR test at their own expense.

Violations of directives governing movement and social distancing are punishable by criminal penalties, including fines. 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.

Resources

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