Joombaah Residence Permit in Seychelles: Eligibility, Conditions, and Application Process

Permit Information

  • PERMIT_POSTED_BY: admin
  • PERMIT_POSTED_ON: Oct 22, 2024
  • Views : 124
  • Category : Africa » Eastern Africa
  • Description : A Residence Permit in Seychelles allows individuals with a family connection or who have made significant contributions to the country’s economic, social, or cultural life to reside legally in Seychelles. However, the permit does not grant the holder the right to work. Applicants are required to provide proof of their financial status and maintain a bank guarantee. Joombaah facilitates knowledge to help you navigate the residence permit process smoothly.
  • Phone : (+248) 4 293636
  • Email : info@immigration.gov.sc
  • Website : https://www.ics.gov.sc/permits/residence-permit

Overview

  • Residence Permit in Seychelles: Eligibility, Conditions, and Application Process

    Introduction

    The Residence Permit is intended for non-Seychellois individuals who wish to reside in Seychelles based on their family connections or contributions to the country. It offers long-term residency but does not allow the holder to engage in paid work without a separate Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP). This permit is ideal for those looking to retire or contribute to Seychelles’ development in meaningful ways. Joombaah provides guidance on the application process, required documents, and associated fees.

    Who Can Apply for a Residence Permit?

    A Residence Permit may be granted to individuals who meet the following criteria:

    • Not a prohibited immigrant: The applicant must not be classified as a prohibited immigrant under Seychelles law.
    • Family or domestic connection with Seychelles: The applicant may have family ties or domestic relations with someone in Seychelles.
    • Special contribution: The applicant has made or will make a significant contribution to the economic, social, or cultural life of Seychelles.

    Note: The Residence Permit does not allow the holder to be gainfully employed in Seychelles. If the permit holder wishes to work or start a business, they must apply for a Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP).

    Conditions of the Residence Permit

    Holders of the Residence Permit must comply with the following conditions:

    1. Residency Requirement: The permit holder must reside in Seychelles for at least five days during each twelve-month period of the permit’s validity.

    2. Bank Guarantee: The permit holder must provide a bank guarantee of at least SCR 20,000 to the Chief Immigration Officer. This guarantee can be used to cover any government expenses related to the permit holder’s care, treatment, maintenance, or removal from Seychelles.

    3. No Access to Free Services: The permit holder is not entitled to:

      • Free medical services in Seychelles.
      • Any social security benefits under the Social Security Act of 1987 or similar legislation.
    4. Contribution to Seychelles: During the validity of the permit, the holder must actively seek opportunities to contribute to Seychelles’ economic, social, or cultural life.

    5. Gainful Occupation: If the permit holder wishes to start a business or engage in paid work, they must apply for a Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) separately.

    Application Process

    Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for a Residence Permit in Seychelles:

    Step 1: Gather Required Documents

    • Financial Status Evidence: Submit documentary proof of financial status, including a banker's confirmation letter, to demonstrate that the applicant can support themselves during their stay in Seychelles.
    • Bank Guarantee: Prepare a bank guarantee of at least SCR 20,000 for the Chief Immigration Officer.

    Step 2: Submit the Application

    • Complete the Residence Permit Application Form and submit it to the immigration office.
    • Pay the SCR 1,000 processing fee when submitting the application.

    Step 3: Approval and Permit Fees

    • Upon approval of the application, the following fees must be paid:
      • Permit Fee for Main Applicant: SCR 150,000 for a five-year permit.
      • Spouse's Permit Fee: SCR 75,000 if applying at the same time.
      • Endorsement for Children: SCR 25,000 for each child endorsed on the permit.

    Fees Associated with the Residence Permit

    • Processing Fee: SCR 1,000 for the application.
    • Permit Fee: SCR 150,000 for the main applicant for five years.
    • Spouse’s Permit Fee: SCR 75,000 for the spouse if applied at the same time.
    • Endorsement of Child: SCR 25,000 for each child.

    Important Notes

    • No Employment: The Residence Permit does not allow the holder to engage in employment or run a business. A separate Gainful Occupation Permit must be applied for if the holder wishes to work.
    • Healthcare and Social Services: The permit holder is not entitled to free healthcare or social security benefits. Private health insurance and other personal arrangements must be made for healthcare needs.
    • Permit Renewal: The permit is valid for five years and must be renewed at the end of the term.

    Why Choose a Residence Permit in Seychelles?

    Seychelles offers an idyllic lifestyle with its pristine beaches, stable economy, and welcoming culture. A Residence Permit allows individuals to enjoy long-term residency in this beautiful island nation while contributing to its social, economic, or cultural life. Whether you have family ties in Seychelles or wish to retire in a tropical paradise, the Residence Permit provides a pathway to residency without the need for employment.