Permit Information

• PERMIT_POSTED_BY: admin
• PERMIT_POSTED_ON: Oct 22, 2024
• Views : 346
• Category : Africa » Eastern Africa
• Description : A Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) is required for non-Seychellois individuals to be legally employed or self-employed in Seychelles. Employers must first obtain approval from the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs before submitting the GOP application to the Immigration Office. This permit is essential for any foreigner intending to work in Seychelles, whether as an employee or as a self-employed individual. Joombaah facilitates knowledge to help you navigate the GOP application process smoothly.
• Phone : (+248) 4 293636
• Email : info@immigration.gov.sc
• Website : https://www.ics.gov.sc/permits/gainful-occupation-permit

Overview

• Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) in Seychelles: Requirements, Costs, and Application Process

  Introduction

  The Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) is a key requirement for non-Seychellois individuals who wish to be gainfully employed or self-employed in Seychelles. This permit ensures that foreigners comply with Seychelles’ immigration and employment laws before engaging in any work-related activities in the country. Joombaah is here to guide you through the process of obtaining a GOP, including the necessary approvals, costs, and submission timelines.

  Who Needs a Gainful Occupation Permit?

  A Gainful Occupation Permit is required for any non-Seychellois individual who plans to work in Seychelles. This includes:

  • Employees: Non-Seychellois individuals hired by a company in Seychelles.
  • Self-Employed Persons: Foreigners intending to start their own business or operate as freelancers in Seychelles.

  Application Process

  To obtain a Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP), the following steps must be followed:

  Step 1: Obtain Approval from the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs

  • The prospective employer must first apply for an approval certificate from the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs. This is necessary to confirm that the non-Seychellois employee is permitted to take up employment in Seychelles.

  Step 2: Submit the GOP Application

  • Once the approval from the Ministry of Employment and Social Affairs has been obtained, the GOP Application must be submitted to the Immigration Office at Independence House, Victoria.
  • The application must be submitted at least one week before the employee is due to start work in Seychelles.

  Step 3: Processing Fees and Permit Costs

  • A processing fee of SCR 1,000 is required when submitting the application.
  • The GOP fee is SCR 500 per month (or part thereof) and must be paid for the entire duration of the permit being sought. For example, for a 12-month permit, the total fee would be SCR 6,000.

  Step 4: Approval and Issuance of GOP

  • Once the application is processed and approved, the Gainful Occupation Permit will be issued, allowing the non-Seychellois individual to begin working legally in Seychelles.

  Conditions for Gainful Occupation Permit Holders

  • Prohibition on Entering for Work Without a Permit: The prospective employee must not enter Seychelles to take up employment before the GOP is issued. The permit must be secured prior to the arrival of the individual intending to work.

  • Application Form Submission: The application form must be completed by the prospective employer. For self-employed individuals, the application must be completed by the individual seeking the permit.

  • Extensions and Changes: The same procedures outlined above apply for the extension of the GOP or changes in the employee’s post title or duties.

  Costs of a Gainful Occupation Permit

  • Processing Fee: SCR 1,000 for the initial processing of the application.
  • Permit Fee: SCR 500 per month for the duration of the permit.
    • For example:
      • A 6-month permit costs SCR 3,000.
      • A 12-month permit costs SCR 6,000.

  Application Timeline and Important Notes

  • The GOP application must be submitted at least one week before the employee is due to start work.
  • For self-employed individuals, the person seeking the permit is responsible for completing the application form and paying the necessary fees.
  • Extensions and Changes: If the validity of the GOP needs to be extended, or if there are changes to the employee’s job title or duties, the same application process must be followed.

  Why is a GOP Important?

  A Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) ensures that non-Seychellois individuals comply with the legal framework governing employment in Seychelles. Whether you are coming to Seychelles for employment or to start your own business, securing a GOP is essential for staying compliant with local immigration laws. The permit not only allows you to work legally but also helps regulate the labor market to ensure that Seychellois citizens have fair access to employment opportunities.