Obtaining a Moroccan Visa

Morocco, a land with a unique history and culture, is known as one of the popular destinations for tourism and migration in the world. From historic cities like Marrakech and Fes to stunning beaches and the magnificent Atlas Mountains, this country has numerous attractions that draw many tourists and migrants. However, to travel or reside in this country, obtaining a visa is essential.

Many migrants do not need an entry visa to enter Morocco, but all foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit within the first 90 days of their stay. The internet and social media are generally sufficient for finding suitable housing in major cities. However, you can also use the services of a local real estate agent (سمسار).

Obtaining a Moroccan visa might seem complex, but with enough information and proper guidance, this process can be navigated with more confidence. This article examines the types of Moroccan visas, the conditions and documents required for each type of visa, and the various steps involved in obtaining it. Additionally, we will introduce the specialized services of the ETE Visa website to facilitate this process.

Why Morocco?

Morocco is a country with unparalleled cultural and historical diversity. From the old alleys of Fes to the vibrant markets of Marrakech, every corner of this country has a story to tell. The delicious Moroccan cuisine, such as tagine and Moroccan kebabs, offers a delightful experience for every visitor.

The pleasant climate of Morocco is another reason that attracts tourists to this country. With warm summers and mild winters, Morocco is a suitable destination for travel all year round. The beautiful beaches of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, along with the towering Atlas Mountains, provide endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Morocco’s historical and natural attractions are also among the reasons for its popularity. Visiting ancient palaces, grand mosques, and beautiful gardens provides an unforgettable experience for every tourist. There are also opportunities for adventurous activities like mountain climbing, desert trekking, and safari.

Why a Moroccan Visa?

Obtaining a Moroccan visa is essential for those planning to travel to this country. This visa allows you to legally enter Morocco and enjoy its amenities and attractions. Additionally, a Moroccan visa can be the first step for longer stays or even citizenship in this country.

Moroccan visas come in various types, each designed for specific purposes. From tourist visas to work and study visas, each has its own conditions and required documents. By obtaining the appropriate visa, you can more confidently plan your activities in Morocco.

Obtaining a Moroccan visa with the help of ETE Visa services can be a quick and hassle-free process. Our professional team, with experience and expertise in this field, will assist you at every step of obtaining the visa and make all administrative and legal processes easier for you.

Types of Moroccan Visas

Tourist Visa

The Moroccan tourist visa is for individuals who plan to make a short visit to the country. This visa is valid for 90 days and is used for visiting tourist attractions and participating in recreational activities.

Conditions for Obtaining a Tourist Visa:

Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
Completed visa application form
Recent color photo
Financial documents to prove the ability to cover travel expenses
Round-trip ticket

Required Documents:

Completed visa application form
Two recent passport-sized color photos
Copy of the main page of the passport
Financial proof
Hotel reservation and flight ticket

Work Visa

The Moroccan work visa is issued to individuals who intend to work in the country. This visa is valid for one year and can be extended.

Conditions for Obtaining a Work Visa:

Valid passport
Employment contract from a Moroccan employer
Completed visa application form
Medical certificate
Health insurance

Required Documents:

Completed visa application form
Two passport-sized photos
Copy of the passport
Employment contract
Medical certificate
Health insurance

Student Visa

The Moroccan student visa is for students who intend to study at universities and educational institutions in Morocco. This visa is valid for the duration of the study period.

Conditions for Obtaining a Student Visa:

Acceptance from a university or educational institution
Valid passport
Completed visa application form
Financial proof
Health insurance

Required Documents:

Completed visa application form
Two passport-sized photos
Copy of the passport
Acceptance letter from the university
Financial proof
Health insurance

Residence Permit

Conditions for Obtaining a Residence Permit

After relocating to Morocco, if you intend to stay for more than 90 days, you must obtain a residence permit (residence card). This permit can be obtained from the immigration office (Bureau des Étrangers) at the central police station in your area. Morocco’s bureaucracy can be slow and stressful, so you should submit your application as soon as you relocate to Morocco.

Required Documents for a Residence Permit:

Two completed application forms (available at the immigration office)
Ten passport-sized photos (with three-quarters of the face covering the photo)
Work permit (employment certificate)
Clean criminal record certificate from your previous country (which can take up to 40 days)
A bank statement from your Moroccan bank as proof of your local bank balance
A medical certificate completed by a local doctor showing you have no contagious diseases

Each of these documents must be legalized at the nearest local office (مقاطعه) and submitted in two copies. After successfully submitting your application, you will receive a receipt and be informed when you can receive your temporary residence permit. This permit is valid for the first three months of your stay in Morocco. During this period, your official residence permit will be prepared.

Buying Property in Morocco

The Moroccan government has taken steps to simplify the process of buying property to encourage foreign investment. You will need the services of a real estate agent, a notary, and a lawyer to assist you with the various stages of purchasing property.

After finding a suitable property, you can make an oral offer. Before agreeing to purchase, make sure to obtain the property’s title deed. Even if you have paid for the property, without the title deed, you will not be the official owner. After the offer is accepted, a preliminary contract, which is legally binding, is signed by both parties. At this stage, the notary should assist you, and having a lawyer is recommended to ensure you understand all the contract details. A down payment is also required at this stage.

For this payment, you need to open a convertible Dirham account. After receiving the down payment, a final contract is executed, the title deed is transferred to you, and the property is registered with the Moroccan government as belonging to you.

Information about the Education System in Morocco

Status of the Education System

Education in Morocco is compulsory for children from ages 7 to 13. Despite the implementation of the “Education Decade” National Charter of Education and Training in 1999, UNESCO has consistently referred to the unfavorable status of Moroccan public schools in its 2011, 2013, and 2014 reports. Indeed, in 2015, 53% of Moroccan women, most of whom live in rural areas, were still illiterate.

International Schools

Most expatriates in Morocco send their children to private international schools. Education in these schools is offered in various languages, primarily French and English, and Arabic lessons are often included in the curriculum.

If you plan to live in Tangier, one option might be the American School of Tangier. In Casablanca, there are more options, including Lycée Lyautey, the American School of Casablanca, and George Washington Academy. Tuition fees for these schools can be quite high, ranging from about $3,000 to $17,000 per year.

Preschools and Kindergartens

Expatriates looking for preschools and kindergartens in Morocco should consult with their contacts in the expatriate community to find a suitable nanny or institution. Children under four are often cared for at home, and many expatriates prefer to hire a maid who also handles cooking and cleaning. For children aged four to six, you may be able to find a place in the preschool or kindergarten of one of the international schools. The cost of a maid or nanny is about $300 per month.

Moroccan Citizenship

Explanation

Obtaining Moroccan citizenship is a complex process that requires going through legal procedures and submitting the necessary documents. Moroccan citizenship allows individuals to enjoy all the rights and privileges of Moroccan citizens.

Conditions

Legal residency in Morocco for 5 years
Proof of financial ability
Proficiency in Arabic or Amazigh
Clean criminal record

Documents

Citizenship application form
Valid passport
Residency certificate
Financial documents
Clean criminal record certificate

Steps

Complete and submit the application form
Submit the necessary documents to Moroccan authorities
Documents review by legal authorities
Language interview and test
Issuance of citizenship certificate