Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) allows its owner to work in Seychelles as an employed worker or a self-employed person.  GOP has to be obtained at least a week before an employee starts working. 

An application form for the permit has to be filled out by a person who is going to be self-employed, or by the potential employer otherwise. 

Firstly, an approving certificate must be obtained by a non-Seychellois person from the Ministry of Employment and Civil Status. 

In order for the application for GOP to be reviewed, the following things are taken into account:

• Health, character and reputation of the prospective worker;

• Technical or professional qualification of the prospective worker;

• Whether the employer already owns a residence permit for Seychelles;

• It has to be figured out, if a Seychelles citizen does not seek this job;

• The benefits lie in the economic and social spheres that the applicant or prospective employee can refer to in order to contribute to positive change in Seychelles.

A prospective employee must not enter Seychelles for the purpose of employment before obtaining a Gainful Occupation Permit.

What are the additional requirements for obtaining an employment permit?

After obtaining a Seychelles work visa, workers must meet additional requirements upon entry to Seychelles, including:

• Obtaining a bank guarantee or bond from a Seychelles bank, the amount of which depends on the employee's country of origin;

• Availability of an employment contract certified by the employment department.

How much does a Gainful Occupation Permit cost?

An application fee of 1000 SCR is charged, and the fee for the entire permit period is 700 SCR per month and must also accompany the application.

Additional information about working in Seychelles

If employees plan to work in Seychelles International Trade Zones, they will need a separate permit. It is the employer's responsibility to apply for authorization through the Financial Services Authority (FSA) in Seychelles. 

The country also offers a permanent residence permit for individuals complying with specific criteria. 

Those individuals will be prioritized, if they have legally resided on the territory of Seychelles for at least 5 years and:

• They have outstanding abilities in science, art, education, economics, business, law or sports;

• Have a higher degree – doctorate, master's or bachelor's degree – in fields that will contribute to the development of the country;

• Made a significant contribution to the development of the Seychelles.