In Seychelles, short-term rentals are officially known as self-catering accommodations or Self-Catering Establishments in regulatory terms. These are fully furnished accommodations with private kitchens, similar to self-contained apartments, and are rented to tourists for short stays, typically under six months.

While international platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com use terms like short-term rental and vacation rental, Seychelles’ tourism policies emphasize sustainable tourism, requiring STRs to comply with zoning laws, environmental standards, and licensing regulations. These accommodations offer an alternative to hotels, providing guests with the comforts of home while supporting the local economy and promoting community-based tourism.

In Seychelles, subletting is permitted only if explicitly stated in the lease agreement. Tenants must obtain written consent from their landlord, as unauthorized subletting can lead to legal action or eviction, as outlined in the Rent Board Fact Sheet.

For self-catering accommodations, tenants must secure a license from the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA) and register the property with the Seychelles Tourism Board. Registration requires proof of ownership or a lease agreement, which is reviewed for compliance. Illegal subletting or non-compliance can result in fines or suspension of operations.

Additionally, landlords may prohibit subletting due to concerns over property management, and tenants must adhere to zoning laws, as some residential areas restrict tourist accommodations.

In Seychelles, there is no nationally mandated maximum length of stay for self-catering accommodations. The duration of a guest’s stay is primarily determined by the agreement between the accommodation provider and the guest.

According to the Seychelles Tourism Board, self-catering accommodations are defined by their daily rate structure and the inclusion of cooking facilities, but there are no legal restrictions on the length of stay. As a result, the duration is typically set by the provider’s policies and the guest’s needs.

To avoid misunderstandings, guests should confirm any stay limitations with the provider before booking. Property owners are encouraged to clearly define the maximum allowable stay in their rental agreements. Additionally, guests must ensure their stay complies with the conditions of their Visitor’s Permit to prevent any immigration issues.

Operating a short-term rental in Seychelles requires a business registering to obtain a tourism accommodation license to comply with safety, environmental, and zoning regulations, supporting the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

​

Hosts must first register their business under the Registration of Business Names Act before applying for the license. Once registered, hosts must apply for a tourism accommodation license through the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA). This involves approval from various departments before obtaining the license:

• Health Approval: Needed if offering catering/takeaway services (Department of Public Health).
• Planning Approval & Certificate of Occupancy: Required for new or renovated properties with more than 7 rooms.
• Public Liability Insurance: Mandatory for higher-risk establishments.
• Gainful Occupational Permit (GOP): Required for foreign employees working in the business.

The licensing fee for guesthouse is SCR 1,200 while the fee for self-catering accommodation is SCR 50 per room and a of minimum SCR 1,000. Failure to register or obtain a license can lead to fines, legal action, or suspension of operations.

In Seychelles, there is no dedicated national association exclusively for short-term rental operators. However, the Seychelles Tourism Board provides support and resources for operators of self-catering accommodations. The board offers guidance on compliance with regulations, marketing strategies, and maintaining quality standards to enhance guest satisfaction.

Operators can also join broader hospitality industry associations, such as the Seychelles Hospitality and Tourism Association (SHTA), which advocates for the interests of tourism stakeholders, including short-term rental hosts. Membership in such organizations provides access to networking opportunities, industry updates, and training programs.