If you’re planning a visit or considering a long-term move to Morocco in 2025, one of the most common questions is: Do Americans need a visa to enter or live in Morocco?
Here’s a complete, up-to-date breakdown for U.S. travelers, expats, digital nomads, and retirees.
Do U.S. Citizens Need a Tourist Visa for Morocco?
No. U.S. passport holders can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days.
| Requirement | Status |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Not required |
| Passport Validity | Must be valid 6+ months |
| Entry Stamp | Issued upon arrival |
| Return Ticket | Recommended, not required |
Upon arrival, immigration will stamp your passport and grant you 90 days of stay. No application or pre-approval is needed.
Can You Extend Your Stay Beyond 90 Days?
Not officially. Morocco does not offer tourist visa extensions.
To remain in the country beyond 90 days, you need to apply for residency (Carte de Séjour).
Some travelers try to reset their stay by exiting and re-entering — often via:
- Ferry trips to Spain (Ceuta or Melilla)
- Short flights to France, Portugal, or the UAE
However:
- This method is unofficial and may not work repeatedly
- Immigration officers can deny re-entry if they believe you’re abusing the visa-free period
Best practice? Apply for residency if you plan to stay long-term.
Applying for Residency in Morocco
To live legally in Morocco beyond the 90-day limit, you’ll need to apply for the Carte de Séjour. Here’s how:
Steps to apply:
- Secure long-term housing (rental agreement or deed)
- Gather documents, including:
- Passport
- Proof of income
- Lease contract or utility bill
- Passport photos
- Visit the Bureau des Étrangers at your local police station
- Submit your application for the residency card
Processing time: 2–6 weeks
Validity: 1 year (renewable)
For retirees, remote workers, or those joining family in Morocco, this process is standard and generally accessible.
Entry & Re-Entry Tips for U.S. Travelers
Many visitors wonder if they can simply leave and return every 90 days. While short-term trips to nearby countries can work once or twice, frequent re-entry attempts may raise red flags with border officials.
Instead of relying on “visa runs,” here’s what you should do:
- Apply for residency if you’re staying over 3 months
- Have your paperwork ready (housing, income, ID copies)
- Keep track of entry and exit dates carefully
U.S.–Morocco Relations: Entry, Safety & Travel
The United States and Morocco maintain strong diplomatic ties. Americans are generally welcomed warmly.
Entry & Safety Highlights:
- No special travel authorization is needed
- No vaccinations are required to enter
- Travel insurance is recommended, but not mandatory
- Tourist infrastructure is well developed
Whether you’re flying into Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, or Tangier, entry is smooth and typically hassle-free.
Visa Summary Table for U.S. Citizens
| Stay Type | Visa Required? | Notes |
| Tourist (≤ 90 days) | No | Passport must be valid for 6+ months |
| Long-term stay | Yes | Apply for residency after arrival |
| Work or Study | Yes | Requires sponsorship/employer or school letter |
Final Thoughts: Should You Apply for Residency?
If you’re coming to Morocco for a short trip, you’re good to go with just your passport. But if you’re planning to retire, work remotely, or live here long-term, applying for residency is the right move.
The process is fairly simple, the fees are low, and the paperwork is manageable — especially if you have a local friend or translator to help.
With Morocco’s affordable lifestyle, reliable internet, warm climate, and welcoming culture, it’s easy to see why so many Americans are choosing to stay long-term.
FAQs: U.S. Visa Requirements for Morocco
Q1: Do I need a visa to visit Morocco for less than 3 months?
No. U.S. passport holders can stay up to 90 days without a visa.
Q2: Can I apply for a visa extension while in Morocco?
No. Extensions aren’t offered. You must apply for residency or leave and return.
Q3: What happens if I overstay my 90 days?
You may face fines, issues at the airport, or difficulty returning in the future.
Q4: How long does it take to get residency?
Anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks depending on the city and documents.
Q5: Can I work in Morocco as an American?
Only with a proper work visa or after getting residency with permission to work.
Morocco remains one of the easiest and most inviting countries for U.S. citizens to explore — and potentially call home.
