As an indicative guide, a comfortable retirement in Seychelles costs roughly £3,000/month for a couple — about £36,000/year (≈ ₨54,000/month). A modest budget is nearer £1,900; a premium one nearer £4,500.
Roughly where a comfortable £3,000/month goes:
Indicative estimates for a couple, general guidance only — real costs vary by location, lifestyle and exchange rates.
Pristine beaches, turquoise water and a small, safe, English- and French-speaking population make the Seychelles an idyllic, if pricier, Indian Ocean retirement spot for those wanting calm and exclusivity.
Foreigners may buy certain residential property but must obtain government sanction (approval) under the Immovable Property Transfer Restriction Act, generally limited to designated areas or approved developments with a high minimum price. A sanction fee and stamp duty apply, and buying property does not by itself grant residence. As a general guide only — always confirm the current rules with a qualified local lawyer. Our free ownership checker and the Overseas Property Playbook walk through how ownership works step by step.
There is no branded retirement visa; financially self-sufficient retirees apply for a residence permit by demonstrating sufficient pension or investment income, with a modest annual minimum-stay expectation. Visa rules change often, so treat this as a starting point and verify the latest requirements before you plan.
Mahe holds most amenities, including Eden Island, a marina development where foreigners buy readily; Praslin and La Digue offer a slower, scenic island life.
Public healthcare on Mahe (Seychelles Hospital in Victoria) is free to citizens and fine for routine needs, but expats use private clinics and complex cases go abroad. A comprehensive international policy is important and worth pricing carefully.
Seychelles taxes on a territorial basis, so foreign-source income including an overseas pension is generally not taxed locally, and there is no capital gains tax. Declaring the income for transparency is still sensible, so take advice.
Tropical and warm all year at about 24-32C. Cooler, breezier trade winds run May to October and the hotter, wetter northwest season runs November to April, with April-May and October calm and clear. Generally safe with sensible precautions against petty theft; English is an official language and widely spoken, and driving is on the left, so it is very easy for British retirees.
Non-citizens need government sanction to buy; on top of 5% stamp duty expect a sanction fee of roughly 1.5% for an approved condominium but around 11-12% for standalone land or a house, plus legal fees. The sanction step adds time.
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