The cost of buying property in Seychelles: taxes & fees
Purchasing property in Seychelles can be an exciting venture, but it's essential to be aware of the various costs and taxes that come with it. This guide outlines the one-off expenses at the time of purchase, ongoing ownership costs, and factors to consider for non-residents seeking a mortgage.
From transfer taxes to utility bills, having a clear understanding of these financial commitments will help you make informed decisions while navigating the property market in Seychelles.
One-Off Purchase Costs
When buying property in Seychelles, you should budget for several one-off purchase costs apart from the property price itself. These typically include a transfer tax, notary fees, and legal charges.
- Transfer tax is generally around 5% of the property value.
- Notary fees might range from 1% to 1.5% of the property price.
- Legal or conveyancing fees can cost approximately 1% of the property value.
Total Purchase Budget
As a general rule, it's wise to budget an additional 8% to 10% on top of the property's price to cover all one-off costs. This percentage can vary by property value and location.
Worked Example
For a typical property price of around €300,000 (about 8.5 million SCR), your one-off costs might look like this:
- Transfer tax: €15,000 (5%)
- Notary fees: €3,000 (1%)
- Legal fees: €3,000 (1%)
This totals around €21,000, which is about 7% of the property price — confirming the previously budgeted percentage.
Recurring Costs of Ownership
After purchasing property, ongoing costs need consideration. Annual property taxes are generally based on the value of the property. Additionally, maintenance costs like community or condo fees, utilities, and insurance will be recurrent costs.
- Annual property tax is typically around 0.25% to 0.5% of the property's assessed value.
- Community fees vary depending on the property's facilities.
- Utilities like water, electricity, and internet can average €100 to €200 per month.
Mortgages for Non-Residents
Non-residents can seek mortgage options in Seychelles, although the terms might be different than those for residents. Generally, banks may require a larger deposit and have stricter lending criteria.
- Deposit requirements may start at 30% of the property value.
- Interest rates can vary—consult a local banker for current rates.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical transfer tax rate in Seychelles?
The transfer tax is generally around 5% of the property's purchase price.
What additional costs should I consider apart from the property price?
Expect to pay notary fees, legal fees, and transfer tax, totalling around 8% to 10% extra.
Are there annual property taxes in Seychelles?
Yes, annual property taxes typically range from 0.25% to 0.5% of the property value.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in Seychelles?
Yes, but non-residents often face larger deposit requirements and stricter lending conditions.
What are typical utility costs for property owners in Seychelles?
Monthly utilities can average between €100 and €200, depending on usage.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change — verify the current position with official sources and a qualified professional before acting. Last reviewed September 2026.