🧳 Relocating to Morocco (2025): Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Moving to Morocco is an exciting journey, but it’s important to prepare for the paperwork, cultural shifts, and logistics. Whether you’re an American expat, UK retiree, or digital nomad, this 2025 guide covers everything you need to relocate smoothly.
âś… Step 1: Check Visa Requirements
Most travelers can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. If you’re relocating long-term, you’ll need to apply for:
- Long Stay Visa (Type D) at a Moroccan consulate
- Valid for 3–12 months
- Convert to residency permit (carte de séjour) once inside Morocco
đź“Ś Required documents:
- Passport
- Proof of income or work
- Moroccan address
- Passport photos
- Application form (French)
🏡 Step 2: Find a Place to Live
Options include:
- Short-term Airbnb rentals to begin with
- Long-term rentals: 1BR apartments = $250–500/month
- Popular cities: Marrakech, Casablanca, Agadir, Rabat
Start with:
- Avito.ma or Mubawab.ma (property sites)
- Join expat Facebook groups
- Use local agents (they often speak French only)
đź’¸ Step 3: Set a Monthly Budget
| Expense | Est. Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR city center) | $300 – $500 |
| Groceries | $150 – $200 |
| Transport | $30 – $60 |
| Coworking/WiFi | $20 – $50 |
| Total (solo expat) | ~$600 – $950 |
Morocco remains one of the most affordable places to live in North Africa.
🌍 Step 4: Set Up a Local SIM & Internet
- Get a SIM from Inwi, Maroc Telecom, or Orange
- No residency card needed for prepaid
- Speeds are good in major cities (20–40 Mbps 4G)
Apps to download:
- inDrive (ride-sharing)
- MarocMa (government)
- Google Translate for Darija/French
🏦 Step 5: Open a Bank Account (Optional)
To open a Moroccan bank account:
- Need your carte de séjour
- RIB (RelevĂ© d’IdentitĂ© Bancaire) used for rent & utilities
Banks like Attijariwafa and BMCE are expat-friendly.
🌎 Step 6: Embrace the Culture
- Learn basic Darija or French
- Expect a slower pace and more formality in processes
- Fridays are prayer days — avoid scheduling things then
- Moroccans are incredibly hospitable — build relationships!
