Licensing Process
The licensing process ensures that all fishing activities in Seychelles are carried out legally, safely, and sustainably. Requirements differ between artisanal, semi-industrial, and industrial sectors, with each category following specific documentation and approval steps.
Below is a summary of the current criteria and administrative process for obtaining a fishing licence:
|
Category |
Class 1–4 (Artisanal & Semi-Industrial) |
Industrial Sector |
|
Application |
Prescribed form with required documents and fees |
Prescribed form with required documents and fees |
|
Renewal / Transfer |
Licenses are non-renewable and non-transferable; a new application required each season or change of ownership |
Same principle applies – new application required |
|
Required Documents |
1. Completed application form 2. Copy of applicant’s ID/passport 4. For companies: a certified Certificate of Incorporation 5. Sale agreement/receipt for new vessels 6. Payment of license fee |
1. Vessel registration in PRC 2. Proof of seaworthiness 3. Appointment of local agent 4. Vessel tracking device (VMS) and electronic reporting system (ERS) fitted and compatible 5. Equipped for industrial pelagic longline 6. Owner and master in good standing 8. Vessel not listed on any RFMO IUU list 9. Copy of International Tonnage Certificate (for first-time license/authorisation) 10. Payment of prescribed license fees |
|
Language & Form |
Applications must be in English; fully completed, current, accurate, signed by the owner, company director or authorised person |
Applications must be in English; fully completed, current, accurate, and signed by the owner or local agent |
|
Administrative Process |
1. Initial Review – check completeness, return if deficient 2. Vessel Marking –SFA number, set marking standards 3. Pre-License Checks – inspection and photos by Enforcement Officer 4. Payment – fee (e.g., SCR 500 semi-industrial) 5. Approval – by Assistant Manager, License and Permit/MCS Manager/HOD, DCEO, CEO, depending on class 6. Issuance of a license certificate |
1. Initial Review – check completeness, return if deficient 2. Vessel Marking –SFA number, set marking standards 3. Pre-License Checks – inspection and photos by Enforcement Officer, VMS and compliance verifications 4. Payment – prescribed fees for the full period of validity of the license 5. Approval – higher-level approval required (DCEO/CEO) due to scale of operations 6. Issuance of a license certificate |
|
Fees |
Paid by applicant directly to SFA (cash/visa). |
Prescribed fees payable by the vessel owner for the full license period. Payment must be made to the designated Seychelles account as provided by the Central Bank of Seychelles. |