Thinking about leaving the US and starting fresh in Morocco? Whether you’re drawn by the cost of living, the sun-soaked culture, or a slower pace of life, Morocco offers Americans a safe, welcoming, and affordable destination to relocate to in 2025.
This complete guide walks you through how to move to Morocco from the US — covering visas, housing, budgeting, culture, and healthcare.
1. Visa Options for US Citizens
Good news: US citizens can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Entry | Short-term visit | 90 days (no visa) |
| Residency Permit | Long-term living | 1 year (renewable) |
| Student/Work Visa | Study or job-based | Varies |
If you’re staying longer than 3 months, you’ll need to apply for a Carte de Séjour (residency permit) at your local police station in Morocco.
2. Where to Live in Morocco (Top Picks for Americans)
| City | Vibe | Why It’s Great for Americans |
| Marrakech | Cultural, lively | Cafés, coworking, walkable, expat-friendly |
| Agadir | Coastal, relaxed | Surf, safety, sunshine |
| Casablanca | Modern, urban | Big city amenities, international crowd |
| Rabat | Calm, diplomatic | Embassies, parks, organized infrastructure |
Tip: Start with Airbnb or Booking before committing to a long-term rental.
3. Cost of Living: Morocco vs USA
| Expense | Morocco (Monthly) | US Equivalent |
| Rent (1BR) | $250 – $500 | $1,200+ |
| Groceries | $150 – $250 | $400+ |
| Utilities + Wi-Fi | $40 – $60 | $150+ |
| Private Doctor | $25 – $40/visit | $150+ per visit |
You can live well in Morocco on $1,000–$1,500 per month.
4. Healthcare for Americans in Morocco
- Use private clinics for faster service
- Appointments cost $20–$40 USD
- Consider international insurance like SafetyWing, Cigna, or Allianz
- Local insurance is optional, not mandatory
5. Setting Up Your Finances
- Open a Moroccan bank account (CIH, Attijariwafa, BMCE) after getting your residency card
- Use Wise or Revolut to transfer money from USD to MAD (Moroccan Dirham)
- US credit and debit cards work at most ATMs
6. SIM, Wi-Fi, and Staying Connected
- SIM cards available at airport and shops (INWI, Maroc Telecom, Orange)
- 10 GB mobile data costs around $5
- Wi-Fi speeds: 20–100 Mbps in cities
- Coworking spaces in cities like Marrakech, Rabat, and Agadir
7. Culture and Language Basics
- Morocco is a majority Muslim country — modest dress and respect for customs is appreciated
- Languages: Darija Arabic, French, Amazigh
- English is growing fast, especially in tourist zones and among younger Moroccans
Useful words:
- Hello = Salam
- Thank you = Shukran
- Please = 3afak
8. Flights and Entry Tips
- Direct flights to Casablanca from NYC, Washington DC, Atlanta
- Airlines: Royal Air Maroc, Air France, Iberia
- Bring proof of:
- Return flight (recommended but not always required)
- Local address (Airbnb or hotel)
Final Checklist Before You Move
- Passport (valid at least 6 months)
- Entry stamp on arrival (90-day stay)
- Residency permit application if staying long-term
- Rental contract or long-term lease
- Health insurance or travel coverage
- Patience, curiosity, and a sense of adventure
Final Word
Moving from the US to Morocco in 2025 is not only doable — it might just be the change you need.
From low living costs and modern amenities to a rich cultural tapestry and growing expat communities, Morocco offers Americans a chance to slow down, live affordably, and experience something completely new.
Take the first step. Morocco is waiting.
FAQs: Moving to Morocco from the USA
Q1: Can Americans stay in Morocco without a visa?
Yes, up to 90 days visa-free. For longer stays, apply for a Carte de Séjour.
Q2: Is Morocco safe for US citizens?
Yes. Morocco is safe for expats, especially in major cities.
Q3: Can I find work in Morocco as an American?
It’s possible, especially in tourism, education, or remote jobs. Most expats work online.
Q4: Is Morocco affordable compared to the US?
Absolutely. Housing, healthcare, food, and transport are all cheaper.
Q5: Do I need to speak Arabic or French?
Basic French or Darija is helpful, but many locals speak some English in cities.
Q6: Can I ship my belongings or car to Morocco?
Yes, but it’s often cheaper to buy locally unless you’re bringing very specific items.
