Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Seychelles: Emerging Hotspot for Digital Nomads
The Seychelles, an idyllic archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is increasingly attracting digital nomads—modern workers who blend technology and mobility to work remotely.
Growing Impact on the Rental Market
This recent phenomenon is gradually transforming the rental market in this preserved natural paradise. Indeed, the influx of these nomadic professionals, often seeking quality temporary stays, is causing notable changes in rental dynamics, influencing both prices and housing availability.
Opportunities and Challenges for the Real Estate Market
Thus, this article explores how the arrival of these new temporary residents is redefining the Seychelles rental market, presenting both opportunities and challenges for islanders and investors.
Good to Know:
Digital nomads typically seek accommodations with high-speed internet and suitable workspaces, prompting property owners to upgrade their offerings.
Attracting Nomadic Clientele to Seychelles
The “Workcation Retreat” program launched in April 2021 enables Seychelles to actively open up to digital nomad clientele. This specific visa allows remote workers to live and work in the archipelago for up to one year, without obligation to pay local income tax. While non-renewable, applicants can reapply after expiration.
Overview of Seychelles Digital Nomad Visa
| Criterion | Detail |
| Official Name | Workcation Retreat Program |
| Duration | 1 year (non-renewable) |
| Taxation | Exemption from local income tax |
| Main Requirements | Proof of employment or self-employment, sufficient income, health insurance, reserved accommodation |
Application Process for the Visa
- Prepare documentation: passport valid for minimum 6 months, employer letter or proof of freelance activity and income, accommodation reservation.
- Apply for work permit (VWP) at least 60 days before arrival.
- Obtain health travel authorization (HTA).
- Pay administrative fees ($46 USD total).
- Provide recent negative PCR test.
Technological Infrastructure and Coworking Spaces
While internet connectivity on main islands like Mahé or Praslin remains stable through fiber optics and reliable mobile networks from major local providers, essential improvements to attract more digital nomads include:
- Expanding broadband coverage to less touristy areas
- Developing more dedicated coworking spaces with secure high-speed Wi-Fi
- Offering complementary services: professional printers/scanners/meeting rooms
Natural and Cultural Attractions Suited for Digital Nomads
Seychelles captivates with its exceptional environment:
- Paradise beaches
- Year-round tropical climate
- Lush national parks
- Preserved coral islands
Cosmopolitan Creole culture with local festivals
Fusion cuisine
Accessible activities: diving/snorkeling/kayaking/hiking
This unique quality of life attracts those seeking balance between professional productivity and personal wellbeing.
Suitable Accommodation: Key Recommendations
To fully meet digital nomad expectations:
- Short/mid-term furnished rentals with ergonomic workspace
- Included fast internet connection
- Easy access to quiet common areas/gardens/shaded terraces
- Flexible stay duration with simple extension options
Digital Marketing Strategies Targeting Digital Nomads
Seychelles tourism institutions primarily focus on:
- Lifestyle-focused social campaigns (#workfromparadise)
- Active presence on specialized platforms for international mobility/coworking/digital nomadism
- Video testimonials/blogs highlighting authentic archipelago experiences
Studies show these strategies actively contribute to strengthening the country’s “remote friendly” image among international communities.
Inspirational Testimonials & Case Studies
Multiple testimonials shared by specialized blogs report positive experiences: administrative ease during the “Workcation” process, exceptional natural setting enhancing creativity/concentration, and quick integration thanks to local dynamism. Some feedback highlights the growing need for modern coworking infrastructure outside major urban areas—a strategic opportunity to further enhance overall attractiveness.
Seychelles thus offers an exceptional setting combining pristine nature, warm Creole hospitality, and simplified administrative conditions—major assets likely to retain demanding yet mobile international clientele.
Good to Know:
Seychelles aims to attract digital nomads through specific visas like the ‘Workcation Retreat’ program, facilitating extended stays. With reliable internet connection and modern coworking spaces, the country is adapting its infrastructure to meet the technological needs of these itinerant workers. The idyllic beach setting and cultural richness offer an attractive work-life balance. To maximize accommodation for this clientele, rentals could improve by offering short-term stays with dedicated workspaces. Digital marketing initiatives targeting digital nomads emphasize inspiring testimonials, such as those from expatriates finding harmony between their profession and island life.
The Rise of Coliving Spaces for Digital Nomads
The growth of coliving spaces in Seychelles stems from a combination of benefits sought by digital nomads and remote workers. These spaces are becoming popular for several reasons:
- Flexibility: Colivings offer flexible stay options suited for short or extended periods, without long-term commitment or administrative hassles associated with traditional rentals.
- Community: They foster social and professional networking by bringing together people sharing similar values, interests, and lifestyles.
- Resource Sharing: Tenants benefit from common areas (equipped kitchens, lounges, coworking with fast internet) enabling comfortable living while reducing costs.
Main Advantages for Digital Nomads:
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Networking | Daily opportunities to connect with other professionals |
| Coworking Access | Work-adapted spaces with reliable Wi-Fi |
| Practical Living | Move-in ready furnished housing and shared services (cleaning, laundry) |
| Local Discovery | Organized activities to explore Seychellois culture |
The diversity of options is notable: some locations transform former residences into shared housing while others combine accommodation and offices in the same building.
Influence on Local Rental Market
The growing arrival of digital nomads directly impacts rental demand. Properties adapted for coliving are multiplying in urban or tourist areas where rents are traditionally high. This leads to:
- General increase in average housing prices in some attractive localities
- Progressive transformation of private residences or traditional hotels into hybrid spaces dedicated to coliving
- Reduced access to affordable housing for some local residents
Cultural and Economic Impact on Local Communities
The emergence of coliving generates several effects:
Positive Effects:
- Economic stimulation through regular influx of new international consumers
- Job creation related to tourist hospitality, property management and associated services
- Cultural enrichment through exchanges between foreign visitors and local population
Potential Challenges:
- Increased pressure on traditional residential real estate market
- Limited but real risk of cultural homogenization if poorly integrated with Seychellois society
Recent Statistics & Case Studies
Seychelles shows growing popularity among remote workers since introducing the digital nomad visa offering complete tax exemption throughout the stay. The average cost remains 7.7% lower than the United States according to a recent study (2024). Several platforms now list about ten specialized structures offering this type of adapted community housing.
Key Takeaway:
The dynamic coliving ecosystem addresses both professional expectations and the fundamental need for social connection among these new long-term travelers. This phenomenon is durably shaping Seychelles’ urban landscape while posing challenges regarding its harmonious integration into the local socio-economic fabric.
Good to Know:
The rise of coliving spaces in Seychelles is gaining popularity among digital nomads thanks to numerous advantages such as flexible commitment without long-term leases, strong community spirit, and resource sharing like high-speed Wi-Fi and collaborative workspaces. These spaces meet growing demand, thereby pushing the local rental market to adjust prices upward, influencing both supply and demand. A notable example is the recent launch of “Coco CoLiving” in Mahé, which reached 90% occupancy within just a few months, according to a 2023 local study. This trend positively impacts the Seychelles economy by stimulating hospitality and commerce sectors, but also sparks debates about cultural repercussions, with some fearing rapid internationalization may dilute local traditions. Balancing modernity with cultural preservation remains a crucial challenge for economic and political stakeholders in the region.
Digital Nomads’ Short-Term Impact on Rental Market
The growing arrival of digital nomads in Seychelles has profoundly modified short-term rental market dynamics, particularly in urban and tourist areas. Since introducing the digital nomad visa in 2020, allowing renewable one-year stays and attractive taxation (0% tax on foreign income), the country attracts more international mobile workers each year.
Supply and Demand Evolution
- Digital nomad flow is fueled by significantly progressing internet connectivity: 87.4% of Seychellois were connected by early 2025.
- Rental demands concentrate on furnished, well-equipped housing near beaches or urban centers.
- This demographic primarily seeks flexible rentals (1-12 months) with good value for money.
| Year | Estimated Digital Nomad Visas Issued | Annual Increase (%) |
| 2022 | ~500 | – |
| 2023 | ~750 | +50% |
| 2024 | ~1200 | +60% |
Consequences on Prices and Availability
- Rapid increase in temporary expatriates has caused average short-term rent increases between +15% and +25% over two years in some tourist areas (Mahé, Praslin).
- Seasonal apartment shortages for local market now exist in some foreigner-favored neighborhoods (Beau Vallon, Eden Island).
- Increased competition makes affordable housing access difficult for some Seychellois residents.
Property Owner and Real Estate Agency Adaptation
- Many owners now prefer short-term rentals through international platforms or specialized agencies over traditional long-term leases.
- Local real estate agencies more frequently offer:
- “Move-in ready” housing
- Additional services adapted to professional needs (guaranteed high-speed Wi-Fi, coworking spaces)
- Automated or outsourced management
Key Market Player Testimonials
“Demand has never been this strong outside classic tourist season; we’ve adapted our offerings with more fully-equipped apartments.”
— Mahé Property Manager
“I always choose accommodation offering contract flexibility. Owners are now open to negotiations if I extend my stay.”
— Digital Nomad Settled in Victoria
“We had to revise our rates because many prefer renting just a few months but accept paying more than our former local clients.”
— Individual Praslin Owner
Economic Benefits for the Archipelago
Non-exhaustive list:
- Additional direct income from short-term rentals
- Indirect spending increase in local restaurants, digital/tourist leisure
- Enhanced contribution to economic development outside traditional high season
Encountered Challenges
Main list:
- Pressure on available rental inventory: increased difficulties for young local professionals
- Rapid evolution requiring reconsideration of urban regulation to prevent excessive speculation in some island markets
- Growing need for high-performance digital infrastructure facing demanding clientele
Relevant Recent Statistics
| Indicator | Seychelles Value Early 2025 |
| Total Population | Approximately 132,000 |
| Internet Penetration Rate | 87.4% |
| Social Media Users | ~70,400 |
| Estimated Share of Short-Term Rentals Occupied by Non-Residents* | Up to 35% in Some Areas |
Good to Know:
In Seychelles, the growing flow of digital nomads has significantly influenced the short-term rental market, increasing housing demand in urban and tourist areas. This boom has led to rent increases reaching up to 20% in some popular zones, according to a 2023 Seychelles Tourism Board report. Testimonials from local real estate agencies indicate many property owners are turning to more lucrative short-term rentals. This offers economic benefits through increased rental income and tourist activity, but creates challenges for local residents facing heightened housing competition. Digital nomads report in online forums they choose Seychelles for its picturesque landscapes and improved internet connectivity, while rental managers emphasize the need for adjustments, such as infrastructure improvement and regulation to balance demand between tourists and residents.
High-Speed WiFi’s Role in Seychelles’ Attractiveness
High-speed WiFi plays a central role in Seychelles’ attractiveness to digital nomads, meeting their primary requirement: reliable, fast connectivity for remote work. Continuous internet infrastructure improvement now allows nomadic workers to enjoy an idyllic setting without sacrificing professional efficiency.
Main High-Speed WiFi Advantages for Digital Nomads in Seychelles:
- Facilitated access to professional platforms (video conferences, online project management, cloud)
- Reduced stress from connection interruptions or slowdowns
- Ability to perform varied activities: streaming, heavy downloads, real-time international collaboration
- Better work-life balance through flexibility offered by telework
| Professional Advantages | Impact on Quality of Life |
|---|---|
| Efficient work without interruptions | Greater geographical freedom |
| Increased productivity through high-speed | Less anxiety about connection |
| Smooth participation in virtual meetings | More free time to explore archipelago |
Widespread access to fast WiFi also fosters emergence of new economic dynamics. Seychelles thus positions itself as a competitive destination in the global flexible work market: increased presence of equipped coworking spaces (up to 100 Mbps), coliving offers with dedicated internet, and numerous establishments (cafés, hotels) providing free or included access in their services.
Key Local Initiatives:
- Progressive deployment of fiber optic network in main islands
- Partnerships between major operators (Airtel, Cable & Wireless) and public actors to improve mobile coverage to remote areas
- Official promotion through “digital nomad” visas facilitating extended stays for remote workers
Collaborations between Seychelles government and private sector accelerate this digital transformation. These initiatives not only attract more digital nomads but also retain existing ones through offered technological comfort.
Continuous high-speed WiFi development is therefore a major strategic lever enabling Seychelles not only to host more international workers but also ensure their professional wellbeing while valuing its unique natural setting.
Joint efforts invested in connectivity actively participate in Seychelles’ international prominence as a flagship destination for modern telework.
Good to Know:
High-speed WiFi plays a crucial role in Seychelles’ attractiveness for digital nomads, enabling them to efficiently perform professional tasks while enjoying a paradise living environment. Improved technological infrastructure, through local initiatives and government-private sector collaborations, has extended connectivity throughout the archipelago, positioning Seychelles as an ideal destination for remote workers. This enhanced connectivity not only facilitates work accomplishment but also contributes to better work-life balance, making Seychelles an increasingly popular choice for digital nomads seeking to combine work and wellbeing. Concrete examples include installation of high-performance WiFi networks in numerous coworking spaces and rental accommodations, thus attracting growing numbers of digital professionals seeking mobility and flexibility.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
