A Certificate of Authorisation (COA) is a permit issued to fishing vessels larger than 24 metres in length overall, or to vessels under 24 metres operating outside the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of their Flag State, allowing them to fish for tuna and tuna-like species managed by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) within the IOTC area of competence.
The Flag State must ensure that its vessels comply with all relevant IOTC Conservation and Management Measures and meet the responsibilities and reporting obligations outlined under the IOTC Agreement.
Summary of Procedures for Authorisation
Applications for Seychelles-flagged vessels wishing to operate in a third country or on the High Seas must be submitted to the Seychelles Fisheries Authority (SFA). Each application must include vessel details, the proposed area of operation, target species, crew list, and confirmation of a valid fishing licence.
SFA reviews all applications to ensure compliance with IOTC Conservation and Management Measures, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act 2025, and any applicable bilateral or multilateral agreements. Once all requirements are met, authorisation is granted in the form of a Certificate of Authorisation (COA).
To renew your authorisation to fish outside the Seychelles EEZ, please complete the digital form below or download the PDF form, fill it out, and return it to us.
Rules and Conditions of Authorisation
To obtain and maintain a COA, a vessel must hold a valid Seychelles fishing vessel licence and operate strictly within the authorised fishing area, target species, and approved methods. Compliance with all IOTC requirements and regional fisheries agreements is mandatory.
The COA is non-transferable, and a new authorisation must be obtained before expiry to continue fishing operations legally.
Reporting Requirements
Authorised vessels must submit catch reports using the prescribed formats, including logbooks, electronic reporting systems, or AREP submissions where applicable. Reporting timelines—such as daily electronic logbook entries and monthly summaries—must be strictly adhered to.
Failure to report or late reporting may result in penalties or suspension of the COA.
Termination or Revocation of COA
SFA may revoke or suspend a COA in cases of non-compliance with conservation measures, reporting obligations, or licence conditions. Authorisation may also be withdrawn if a vessel breaches international agreements, fishes outside approved areas, or fails to settle required fees or penalties.
Upon termination or revocation, the vessel must immediately cease all fishing operations in the authorised area.
Renewal of Authorization to Fish outside the EEZ
To renew your authorization to fish outside the Seychelles EEZ, please complete the digital form below or download the PDF form, fill it out, and return it to us.
Completed forms are to be returned to:
Fisheries Management, Seychelles Fishing Authority, PO Box 449, Fishing Port, Mahé,
Seychelles
Tel: +248 4670335 Fax: + 248 4225957