Navigating Your Trip from Latvia to the Seychelles

Trading the Baltic breeze for the tropical warmth of the Seychelles is an incredible choice for any Latvian traveler. While the islands are welcoming, the "paperwork" has moved entirely into the digital world. This guide is designed to help you navigate the administrative Info about Seychelles Travel Authorization from Latvia, as if you were getting advice from a seasoned traveler who just returned to Riga from Victoria.

Do Latvian citizens need a visa to travel to Seychelles?

Every traveler entering the archipelago must obtain a mandatory Seychelles Travel Authorization (TA) before boarding their flight. This digital document has replaced the old paper disembarkation forms and is a prerequisite for entry for all foreign nationals. While your passport allows you to receive a visitor's permit on arrival for up to 90 days, the digital authorization must be secured in advance.

What is Seychelles Travel Authorization for Latvian passport holders?

The Seychelles Travel Authorization is an official digital document that is issued by the government for health and safety screening purposes. Every traveller, regardless of age, including infants and children, must obtain a separate Seychelles Travel Authorization. The Seychelles Travel Authorization is linked electronically to your passport, and you will be required to provide this document at the time of check-in to your airline, as well as to Immigration at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) when arriving on the island.

How can travelers from Latvia apply for Seychelles Travel Authorization?

The Seychelles Electronic Travel Authorization application process is fully online and can be facilitated through an official website or mobile device.

• Required Information: Provide basic personal identification information such as name, date of birth, nationality, contact information and citizenship; Input flight details including airlines, flight numbers/letter numbers (if applicable) and depart/arrival times; Provide accommodation address (hotel, hostel or other) where you will be staying during participation in event.



• Document Submission: Completed electronic application form along with scanned digital versions (jpeg or pdf format) of your passport; Current photos (one 2x2 inches); Proof of onward or return flight via email or other means (see below); Hotel reservation for each night during participation in event (the hotel should be listed as an approved accommodation) Where applicable, proof of adequate bank balance or other means to support yourself while in the host country; and evidence of travel insurance is recommended for peace of mind as you will likely require some type of insurance coverage for at least medical emergencies.

What documents are required for Seychelles Travel Authorization from Latvia?

To finish your application process properly you need to have three types of digital documents (JPG, PNG or PDF) ready;

• Valid Latvian Passport - The passport needs to be valid throughout your entire stay in Latvia.



• Digital Passport photo/selfie, this is simply a head shot taken against a plain coloured background.



• Flight Confirmation - this is proof of your return flight or a flight that continues to your next destination.



• Confirmation of your Accommodation - This is the confirmation from your hotel, guesthouse or liveaboard boat regarding your accommodation for every night of your trip.



• Provide your contact information including your home address in Latvia and valid email address.



• Credit / Debit card - to pay for processing fee.

How long does Seychelles Travel Authorization processing take for Latvian travelers?

Application Timeline

• Phase 1: You should spend between 30 and 60 minutes collecting and preparing your digital documents.



• Phase 2: After collecting your digital documents, it will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete the form.



• Phase 3: If you are applying for a standard review and the application is processed on a full-time basis, you should expect to wait 6 to 9 working days for processing.

Once your application has been submitted, it will go through the following stages during processing:

• Stage 1 - Initial Review: Review of the following: document completeness; payment verification.



• Stage 2 - Detailed Verification: Verification of the authenticity of your passport, as well as verification of accommodation and financial stability.



• Stage 3 - Security Screening: Conduct background checks to ensure border security through immigration database searches.



• Stage 4 - Issuance of Authorization: Issuance of an electronic PDF containing the authorization will be sent to your email, and you will also receive a confirmation through SMS.

What is the validity period of Seychelles Travel Authorization for Latvians?

The Travel Authorization is specific to your travel dates. It is valid for a single entry into the country. If you leave the islands and wish to return, you will need to apply for a new authorization. Once you are in the country, the visitor’s permit issued based on this authorization allows you to stay for up to 3 months, which can be extended at the local Immigration Office if needed.

How much cash can travelers carry when entering Seychelles from Latvia?

There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into the Seychelles. However, if you are carrying cash equivalent to $10,000 USD or more, you must declare it to customs upon arrival. For the local currency, the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), you are generally allowed to import or export up to SCR 2,000 without declaration.

What currency is used in Seychelles and can Latvians exchange money easily?

The currency of Seychelles is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR) and you can exchange it at a variety of locations. There are several exchange kiosks at the international airport, where you can exchange currency upon arriving in Seychelles. There are many banks in Victoria that will provide competitive rates for the exchange of Euros to Rupees. There are also several licensed exchange bureaus located in main tourist areas such as Beau Vallon, Praslin, and the other main tourist areas in Seychelles.

Tip: Always keep your receipts for currency exchange. You may need your receipts if you want to convert any leftover Rupees back to Euros before you leave Seychelles.

Are international debit and credit cards accepted for tourists in Seychelles?

Yes, international cards are widely accepted throughout the islands. You can use them for:

• Hotel payments and resort activities.



• Major restaurants and upscale boutiques.



• Car rentals and ferry tickets between Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.

However, for small purchases at local "shop-kiosks," fruit stalls on the beach, or local buses, cash in SCR is essential. Some smaller establishments may apply a surcharge for card transactions.

Is ATM service available in Seychelles for travelers from Latvia?

ATMs are widely available on the three main islands: Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. Most machines accept international debit cards.

• Locations: ATMs are found at the airport, inside bank branches in Victoria, and near major tourist beaches.



• Withdrawals: Most ATMs dispense local currency (SCR). Note that your Latvian bank may charge a foreign transaction fee. It is safer to use ATMs located within or attached to bank buildings.

How can Latvian tourists buy a SIM card or eSIM in Seychelles?

Staying connected is easy and relatively affordable.

• Physical SIM Cards: The two main providers are Airtel and Cable & Wireless. You can buy a "Tourist SIM" directly at the airport arrivals hall or at retail shops. You will need to present your passport for registration.



• eSIMs: For convenience, you can purchase an eSIM online before you even leave Latvia. This allows you to have internet access the moment your plane touches down without swapping physical cards.

What is the availability of mobile internet and Wi-Fi in Seychelles?

• Mobile Internet: 4G/LTE coverage is excellent on Mahe and Praslin, and quite good on La Digue. In more remote hiking spots or on smaller outer islands, the signal may drop.



• Wi-Fi: Most hotels and resorts offer free Wi-Fi. However, the speed can vary. Large resorts usually have high-speed connections, while smaller guesthouses might have limited bandwidth.



• Public Wi-Fi: Some cafes and major tourist spots offer Wi-Fi, but it is not as ubiquitous as in Riga. Using a local SIM or eSIM is the most reliable way to stay connected.

Final Travel Tips for Latvians

• Power Up: Pack a British-style Type G adapter. Your Latvian Type C/F plugs won't fit the wall sockets.



• Sun Warning: The sun in the Seychelles is much closer and stronger than a mid-summer day in Jurmala. Pack high-quality SPF 50+.



• Respect the Islands: The Seychelles is a leader in conservation. Avoid taking shells or coral, and always take your trash with you.

Safe travels—or as they say in Seselwa, Bon vwayaz!