Warning Alert
Authorities in Seychelles maintain limited measures as of Oct. 9 due to COVID-19 activity. Low-level disruptions possible.
Alert Begins 09 Oct 2020 11:04 AM UTC
Alert Expires 22 Oct 2020 11:59 PM UTC
- Incident: COVID-19 restrictions
- Location(s): Nationwide
- Time Frame: Indefinite
- Impact: Possible low-level travel and business disruptions
Summary
As of Oct. 9, authorities in Seychelles are maintaining limited restrictions put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19); current measures remain in place until further notice.
International Travel
Limited international commercial air travel will continue at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ). Only travelers from Category 1 and Category 2 countries, as assessed by the Ministry of Tourism, can enter the country. Travelers arriving in Seychelles by private aircraft will also be considered. All Seychellois and persons holding resident permits who have spent at least 14 days in a country on the list of permitted countries immediately prior to travel may enter Seychelles with a Health Travel Authorization and can stay in their own homes. Seychellois and persons holding resident permit currently in a country not on the list of permitted countries may apply to enter Seychelles and will be required to undergo facility-based quarantine for a 14 day period and COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests at their cost. All returning citizens and residents must have proof of a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test taken up to 72 hours before departure.
Travelers from Category 1 countries must submit proof of a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test taken up to 72 hours prior to departure. All travelers must provide proof of accommodation in an approved establishment for the entire period of stay and must show booking vouchers at Immigration on entry. Travelers from Category 2 and "special status countries" must submit proof of a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test taken up to 48 hours prior to departure. Travelers are required to stay in one establishment, specifically authorized to accommodate visitors from such countries, for the first 5 days after entering Seychelles. On the fifth day after arrival, travelers from “special status countries” must take a COIVD-19 PCR test. Individuals who test negative will be allowed to continue travel.
Travelers arriving in Seychelles aboard private sea vessels must send an application for entry to the Public Health Authority before arrival. Disembarkation will be subject to temperature reviews and other screenings measures.
Domestic Measures
Interisland travel has resumed. Sporting events have resumed, and bars and restaurants are permitted to reopen. All resorts can reopen, provided individuals adhere to social distancing and sanitation protocols. Officials have also issued new travel and safety guidelines to assess establishment readiness before they can reopen. Businesses must maintain customer records for COVID-19 tracing purposes. The wearing of protective facemasks is mandatory in public transport and all 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.
Background and Analysis
COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus (previously known as 2019-nCoV). Symptoms occur 1-14 days following exposure (average of 3-7 days). These symptoms include fever, fatigue, cough, difficulty breathing, sometimes worsening to pneumonia and kidney failure - especially in those with underlying medical conditions. On March 11, the WHO declared the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic.
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.
Back to the COVID-19 Risk Intelligence & Resource Center