Seychelles is one of the most photogenic places on earth to get married, and one of the most administratively friendly. The legal requirements are light, the venues are spectacular, and you can be standing barefoot on white sand exchanging vows two days after you land.
The legal side, in plain language
Both partners must be unmarried, single in their home country, and over 18. You file a Notice of Marriage with the Civil Status Office in Victoria at least 11 days before the wedding date. You’ll need:
- Valid passports for both partners
- Original birth certificates
- Affidavit of single status (sworn at a solicitor at home or at the Seychelles High Commission)
- If divorced. Decree absolute
- If widowed. Death certificate of previous spouse
Documents in languages other than English or French need certified translations. The fee is small (around SCR 5,000). The wedding can happen anywhere a Civil Officer is willing to travel. Beach, garden, boat, hotel terrace.
The best Seychelles beach wedding venues
| Venue | Vibe |
|---|---|
| Anse Lazio (Praslin) | The classic. Granite boulders, calm bay, postcard light |
| Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue) | The most photographed beach in the country |
| Anse Intendance (Mahé) | Dramatic kilometre of sand, big surf for drama |
| Anse Takamaka (Mahé) | South-Mahé pretty, more sheltered than Intendance |
| Anse Georgette (Praslin) | Secret cove via Constance Lemuria, intimate weddings |
| Constance Ephelia (Mahé) | Resort-managed, two private beaches, full venue services |
| Banyan Tree (Mahé) | Direct-onto-beach venue at Anse Intendance |
| Hilton Northolme (Mahé) | North-coast headland, gazebo, full wedding desk |
| Cap Ternay yacht | Catamaran ceremony, sunset cruise, no fixed venue |
When to get married in Seychelles
The shoulder months (April, May, September, October, November) are the sweet spot. Settled weather, low crowds, lower rates. Avoid March (wet) and the August peak unless you don’t mind sharing your beach with other beach-goers.
What it costs
| Element | Typical EUR price |
|---|---|
| Legal fees + celebrant | EUR 400–700 |
| Beach venue (public) | EUR 0–500 (depending on setup) |
| Beach venue (resort) | EUR 1,500–5,000+ |
| Decor (arch, flowers, chairs) | EUR 600–2,500 |
| Photography (To Happy Endings) | EUR 990–1,650 |
| Videography | EUR 1,200–2,500 |
| Reception dinner (10 guests, resort) | EUR 1,500–3,500 |
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Seychelles before the wedding?
Minimum 11 days under standard procedure. That’s the cooling-off period from filing the Notice of Marriage. Some packages can compress this with advance paperwork. Most couples land 2–3 days before the ceremony and use the rest as honeymoon.
Can two people of the same sex get married in Seychelles?
Same-sex partnerships are not currently recognised under Seychelles civil law for marriage. Same-sex commitment ceremonies (no legal status) can be arranged through any private celebrant.
Do we need to bring our own witnesses?
Two witnesses are required. Hotel or photographer staff are happy to act as witnesses for elopements.
What if it rains?
Most beach venues have an indoor or covered fallback. Decor teams can move setups in under an hour. Plan a 30-minute buffer in the timing.
Can we get married on a private island?
Yes. North Island, Frégate, Denis and Six Senses all host their own weddings. Multi-day packages are higher cost but you get the whole island.