The Seychellois Rupee
The official currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois rupee (SCR), denoted by the symbol ₨ or SR. It is issued by the Central Bank of Seychelles and has been in circulation since 1971. The SCR is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 1 USD = 13.50 SCR.

History of the Seychellois Rupee
Prior to 1971, Seychelles used the Seychelles rupee, which was pegged to the British pound. After independence in 1976, the country switched to the Seychellois rupee, which was initially pegged to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Special Drawing Rights (SDRs). In 1978, the SCR was pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 1 USD = 7.50 SCR. This peg was maintained until 2008, when it was devalued to 1 USD = 12.50 SCR. In 2018, the peg was further devalued to its current rate of 1 USD = 13.50 SCR.
Coins and Banknotes
Seychellois rupee coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 francs. Seychellois rupee banknotes are issued in denominations of 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1000 rupees. The banknotes feature images of Seychellois people, culture, and wildlife.
Foreign Exchange
Foreign exchange is widely available in Seychelles, and most major currencies are accepted. It is advisable to exchange currency at banks or authorized money changers to ensure the best exchange rates. Credit cards and debit cards are also widely accepted in Seychelles.
Currency Conversion Rates
The following table shows the exchange rates of the Seychellois rupee against major currencies as of March 2023:
Currency | Exchange Rate |
---|---|
US Dollar | 1 USD = 13.50 SCR |
Euro | 1 EUR = 16.50 SCR |
British Pound | 1 GBP = 19.00 SCR |
Japanese Yen | 100 JPY = 13.00 SCR |
Australian Dollar | 1 AUD = 11.00 SCR |
Cost of Living in Seychelles
The cost of living in Seychelles varies depending on the individual’s lifestyle and preferences. However, in general, Seychelles is a relatively expensive country. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively high. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around 500 SCR (37 USD), while a night’s stay at a mid-range hotel can cost around 1000 SCR (74 USD).
Tips for Saving Money in Seychelles
Here are some tips for saving money in Seychelles:
- Stay at guesthouses or hostels instead of hotels.
- Eat at local restaurants instead of tourist restaurants.
- Use public transportation instead of taxis.
- Cook your own meals instead of eating out.
- Take advantage of free activities, such as swimming, hiking, and sunbathing.
Conclusion
The Seychellois rupee is the official currency of Seychelles. It is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 1 USD = 13.50 SCR. Foreign exchange is widely available in Seychelles, and most major currencies are accepted. The cost of living in Seychelles is relatively high, but it is possible to save money by staying at guesthouses, eating at local restaurants, and using public transportation.