Seychelles is one of the few world-class beach destinations that admits Ugandan passport holders without a visa. The granite islands of Mahé, Praslin (home to the Vallée de Mai UNESCO site), and La Digue (with the famous Anse Source d'Argent beach) are accessible with just a USD 10 online Travel Authorization. The main catch: Seychelles is expensive, yellow fever certificate is required, and flight connections from Uganda are limited.
Key Warnings
Yellow fever certificate is MANDATORY on arrival in Seychelles for Ugandan travellers (Uganda is endemic). Without the original ICVP/yellow card, you may be refused entry. Get vaccinated at UVRI Entebbe or Mulago Hospital.
Seychelles is extremely expensive — budget USD 200–500+ per person per day including accommodation, food, and tours. This is not a budget destination.
The Travel Authorization (USD 10 at seychelles.govtas.com) is required before departure — do not confuse this with a visa-free policy that requires no pre-travel action.
Insider Tips
The cheapest way to reach Seychelles from Uganda is via Nairobi (Kenya Airways) or Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines). Both have regular connections to Mahé (SEZ).
La Digue is the smallest of the three main islands and the most photogenic — the famous Anse Source d'Argent beach is one of the world's most photographed. Take the inter-island ferry from Mahé to Praslin, then to La Digue.
Self-catering accommodation (guesthouses) is significantly cheaper than large resorts. Consider staying in a local guesthouse and buying groceries from the market in Victoria.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended — Seychelles has private medical facilities and emergency treatment or medical evacuation is very expensive.
Step-by-Step Guide
Ensure your yellow fever certificate is valid
Uganda is a yellow fever endemic country — Seychelles requires the certificate on arrival. If not vaccinated, visit UVRI Entebbe or Mulago Hospital. The certificate activates 10 days after vaccination and is valid for life.
Book flights and accommodation
Direct flights from Entebbe (EBB) to Mahé (SEZ) are rare — most routes go via Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Nairobi (Kenya Airways), or Dubai (Emirates). Book accommodation in advance as Seychelles is very popular.
Apply for the Travel Authorization online
Go to seychelles.govtas.com and complete the free Travel Authorization form. Pay the USD 10 (~UGX 37,000) processing fee by card. Save the approval confirmation.
Travel — present Travel Authorization and yellow card on arrival
At Seychelles International Airport (SEZ, Mahé), present your passport, printed or digital Travel Authorization, return ticket, accommodation proof, and yellow fever certificate. Entry is granted for up to 90 days.
Required Documents
Seychelles Travel Authorization (online, USD 10)Apply at seychelles.govtas.com before departure. Print a copy or save on your phone. Present at check-in and upon arrival.
Valid Ugandan passport (6+ months validity)Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay. At least 1 blank page for the entry stamp.
Confirmed return or onward flight ticketSeychelles immigration requires proof of onward travel. Have your return ticket ready at immigration.
Proof of accommodation for entire stayHotel booking confirmation, Airbnb reservation, or invitation letter from a host in Seychelles.
Proof of sufficient fundsSeychelles is one of the world's most expensive destinations. Immigration may ask about your financial means. Seychelles Rupee (SCR) or USD. Carry a bank card with international access.
Recommended (Optional)
Travel insuranceStrongly recommended for medical coverage. Seychelles has private hospitals and medical care is expensive.
Health Requirements
⚠️ Yellow Fever Certificate required. Seychelles requires a yellow fever certificate from travellers arriving from countries in the yellow fever endemic zone, which includes Uganda. Carry your original ICVP/yellow card — it will be checked at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ). Get vaccinated at Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) in Entebbe or Mulago Hospital in Kampala if not already vaccinated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ugandans need a visa for Seychelles?
No — Seychelles admits all nationalities without a visa. Ugandan passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. However, you must obtain a free Travel Authorization online at seychelles.govtas.com before departure (USD 10 processing fee). Also required: return ticket, accommodation proof, and — importantly — a yellow fever certificate (Uganda is endemic).
Do Ugandans need a yellow fever certificate for Seychelles?
Yes — Seychelles requires a yellow fever certificate from travellers coming from Uganda (a yellow fever endemic country). Carry the original ICVP/yellow card. Without it, you may be refused entry at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ). Get vaccinated at UVRI Entebbe or Mulago Hospital if you don't have one — the certificate activates 10 days after vaccination and is valid for life.
Is Seychelles affordable for Ugandans?
Seychelles is one of the world's most expensive destinations — budget USD 150–500+ per person per day including accommodation, food, and transport. Mid-range guesthouses cost USD 100–200/night per room. Staying in local guesthouses rather than resorts and shopping at markets can reduce costs, but Seychelles remains a premium destination.
How do you fly from Uganda to Seychelles?
There are no direct flights from Entebbe (EBB) to Mahé (SEZ). Common connections: Entebbe → Nairobi (Kenya Airways, ~1.5 hours) → Mahé (Air Seychelles or Kenya Airways, ~4 hours), or Entebbe → Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines) → Mahé. Kenya Airways has some of the most direct routings.