Location and general conditions
Are you looking for a way to invest and/or to benefit from the tax advantages of an offshore company? We would be glad to help. Thanks to our direct contacts with lawyers, authorities and service providers, the process becomes simpler, and you can be sure of having an experienced contact right here on the ground.
The sections below outline what applies to foreign investors. They are no substitute for legal or tax advice in your individual case.
The Seychelles Investment Board as your first port of call
The Seychelles Investment Board (SIB) was founded in July 2004 as the first point of contact for all investment matters and builds on the work of its predecessor. Its aim is to promote the Seychelles as an ideal business location, to create an investor-friendly atmosphere, and to help investors set up companies, invest successfully and expand. The legal basis is the Investment Act of 2010.
What the SIB does
Its main tasks include:
- Putting the Seychelles on the map as an investment location, at home and abroad, and publicising investment opportunities in all sectors of the economy.
- Offering investors help and support, and acting as a link between local and foreign entrepreneurs and all government and private organisations.
- Speeding up the processing of investment applications for submission to the government.
- Carrying out analyses and making recommendations on investment-related topics.
The process for foreign investors
Foreign investors first submit their plans to the SIB. Some economic activities are reserved for Seychellois, while others are open to foreigners or only in partnership with a Seychellois. Anything that appears on none of the lists is assessed by the SIB case by case for its economic benefit to the country. The usual route:
- Submit your business concept to the SIB and receive a feedback letter.
- Use this letter to apply for a business licence from the Seychelles Licensing Authority.
- Register the business with the Seychelles Revenue Commission (SRC) within 28 days of starting trading.
Official information and forms are available from the Seychelles Investment Board.
Taxes and company structures
The Seychelles tax on a source basis: income from the Seychelles is taxable, while foreign income can, under certain conditions, remain outside the tax net. The Seychelles Revenue Commission is the authority that decides.
| Tax (as of November 2026) | Rate | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Business Tax, first SCR 1 million of profit | 15 % | in effect since 2022 |
| Business Tax, profit above that | 25 % | Banks, insurance companies and telecommunications pay higher rates of up to 33% |
| Value Added Tax (VAT) | 15 % | Exports are taxed at 0% |
| Tourism Marketing Tax | 0,5 % | from SCR 1 million annual turnover |
| Tax return | 31 March | for the preceding tax year, which follows the calendar year |
Offshore company (IBC)
The usual vehicle is the International Business Company (IBC) under the International Business Companies Act of 2016. Its foreign income is generally not subject to business tax. If the company belongs to an international group and earns passive income such as dividends, interest or royalties, it must demonstrate sufficient economic substance in the Seychelles. According to service providers, the government fee is around USD 150 for incorporation and the same again for the annual renewal (as of November 2026). The fees of the registered agent come on top.
Foreigners and offshore companies can only open a local bank account with proof of residence or company registration. You can read more about setting up a company under Setting up an offshore company in the Seychelles, and about accounts under Money & Banks.
For more detailed information on setting up a company in the Seychelles, just ask us. We can give you plenty of first-hand information, as we have gathered a good deal of experience and are happy to pass it on. An investment in the Seychelles could be worthwhile.
Property and residence
Property purchases by foreigners
Any acquisition of land by non-Seychellois requires government approval (a sanction) under the Immovable Property (Transfer Restriction) Act. According to specialist lawyers, the procedure takes about three months. For projects, clearance from the SIB is needed as well. On certain islands the purchase of land is ruled out, and only long-term leases are available.
According to reports from the property sector, the moratorium on the purchase of residential property by non-Seychellois was lifted in early 2025, with minimum values for plots (2,000 to 4,000 m²) and houses. Before buying, you should ask a local lawyer about the exact conditions.
| Cost items (as of November 2026) | Rate according to SIB | Basis of calculation |
|---|---|---|
| Processing fee | 1,5 % | Market value of the property |
| Sanction Duty | 11 % | Holiday home or residential development outside the Villas Policy |
| Stamp Duty | 5 % | Market value of the property |
Residence rights
Buying property alone does not confer a right of residence. Nor is there a “citizenship by investment” programme in the Seychelles. The following routes are possible:
- Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP): for anyone working or running a business in the Seychelles. Investors submit a project via the SIB for this.
- Permanent Residence Permit: requires an investment of at least USD 1 million in a company in the Seychelles and a commitment to that company lasting several years (as of November 2026). Holders pay a reduced sanction fee when buying property.
- Residence Permit: without a work permit. According to reports it costs SCR 150,000 for five years (as of November 2026), and minimum stays per year apply.
The entry rules can be found under Entry formalities, and the import of household goods under Customs regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners buy land and houses in Seychelles?
Yes, but only with government approval (a Sanction). The approval applies to the individual property and does not grant any right of residence.
Is there a passport in return for investment?
No. Citizenship cannot be bought. The investor scheme applies only to a permanent residence permit.
Do I have to travel to Seychelles to set up an offshore company?
Not for the incorporation, which is handled by a local registered agent. Opening a bank account in Seychelles, however, requires proof of residence or of a business.
Where can I find out the current rules?
From the Seychelles Investment Board, the Seychelles Revenue Commission and a local lawyer. Laws and rates change regularly.
More information: Money & Banks, Services in Seychelles and Why Seychelles?
