A new visitor management platform that will enable authorities to run rapid and efficient vetting procedures on information provided by incoming travellers has been launched in the Seychelles in an effort to help minimise the risk of Covid-19 transmission, while encouraging continued tourism to the region.

Developed by Travizory, travellers can use the new platform to apply for travel clearance – either from their mobile phone via Android or iOS apps, or on the web – in just a few minutes, and will receive a clear response on their eligibility to travel in the form of a secure barcode, also available as a wallet pass, which they can present at check-in and boarding.

A fee of US$50 will apply when submitting documents online, going up to $150 for emergency and late submissions. 

Reduced health risks and positive traveller experiences

Alan Renaud, Principal Secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports & Marine, said that by streamlining security clearance and simplifying the process of entry, the new platform achieved ‘better performance and reduced risk’: “All of which comes together to improve the passenger experience, not only at airports, but in our archipelago as well.”

Keeping Seychellois safe from the pandemic was the number one priority behind the new scheme, explained Seychelles' Public Health Commissioner, Jude Gedeon. “However, we need to enable international travel to let in key workers and specialists and to allow tourism to restart, and for our citizens to work again,” he said. “With our current email and multiple forms, doctors and airport staff were struggling to keep pace with the number of arrivals. We have now given them a tool to focus their attention where it is most needed.”

Technology to be rolled out across Seychelles for seamless traveller experience

Connected technology will also be rolled out at approved accommodations across the islands – a decision that aims to further enhance visitors’ experience by avoiding unnecessary filling out of forms.

“It is about providing the traveller with a positive experience. By making the whole process as painless as possible, giving people the assurance that they will be allowed to travel to the country and that the flight they are on is safe, the experience of visiting the Seychelles will now be even better," said Renaud Irminger, CEO of Travizory.