Government Lifts Moratorium on Change-of-Use for Mahe and Praslin Homes

VICTORIA, Seychelles — The temporary moratorium on the change-of-use of residential properties into tourism accommodation on Mahe and Praslin is no longer in force, the Department of Tourism confirmed in a public notice issued on Friday. From 13 January 2025, applicants can once again submit requests for change-of-use, provided they meet a new set of guidelines introduced by the Department.

The moratorium, initially introduced in August 2023, had been lifted after the Cabinet of Ministers approved a new policy aimed at bringing the approval process in line with the Department’s standards and its broader sustainability approach. In its public notice, the Department laid out the new guidelines that applicants must follow, from concept and planning through occupancy, licensing and sustainability processes.

The Department said the new policy is intended to balance the country’s accommodation needs with the protection of residential amenity, infrastructure and the natural environment. Officials have indicated that applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The lifting of the moratorium is being watched closely by property owners and operators in the short-stay accommodation sector, many of whom had called for clearer rules after a year and a half of restrictions. The Department has urged prospective applicants to consult the new guidance before submitting any change-of-use requests.