Planning to stay long-term in Morocco? Whether you’re a retiree, remote worker, or digital nomad, getting legal residency is key to settling in with peace of mind.
This complete 2025 guide will walk you through the residency application process, documents required, fees (in USD), and common mistakes to avoid.
🧾 What Is Moroccan Residency?
Residency in Morocco allows you to:
- Stay longer than a tourist visa (90 days)
- Open a local bank account
- Sign a rental contract or buy property
- Access public services and healthcare
- Avoid immigration trouble or exit fines
📋 Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you’re:
- Renting or owning a property in Morocco
- Working remotely or self-employed
- Married to a Moroccan citizen
- Retired and receiving a pension
- Running a business or teaching in Morocco
📑 Required Documents (2025)
Prepare these before your 90-day visa expires:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport Copy | Valid + stamped entry page |
| 6 Passport Photos | Local photo shop can print for ~$5 |
| Rental Contract / Ownership Doc | Must be notarized |
| Criminal Background Check | From your country (less than 3 months old) |
| Medical Certificate | From local doctor ($10–$20) |
| Bank Statement / Proof of Income | Show financial stability |
| Residency Application Form | Available at local police station |
| 100 MAD Stamp | Buy at post office (~$10 USD) |
💰 Fees (in USD)
| Expense | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Residency Card Fee (carte de séjour) | $10 – $15 |
| Document translations (if needed) | $5 – $20 |
| Police / admin paperwork copies | $5 – $10 |
💡 Tip: Always carry extra copies of everything, and get documents translated to French if needed.
🕒 Application Timeline
- Submit your file at the local police station (bureau des étrangers)
- You’ll receive a receipt (récépissé) — keep this!
- Processing time: 30 to 90 days
- Your card will be valid for 1 year (renewable)
📌 Renewal & Long-Term Residency
After 3–5 years of residency, you can apply for a 5-year card.
Make sure:
- You don’t leave Morocco for more than 6 months at a time
- Your documents (like rental contract) are always up to date
❗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too late (start in the first 60 days)
- Submitting non-translated documents
- Forgetting to notarize your rental contract
- Not having a fixed address (Airbnb doesn’t count!)
💬 Can You Apply Without a Lawyer?
✅ Yes, and most expats do it themselves.
But if you don’t speak French, you may want to hire a translator or local facilitator to help navigate the process.
✈️ Final Thoughts
Residency in Morocco isn’t as difficult as you might think — if you’re organized and proactive. Once approved, you’ll enjoy more legal flexibility and unlock local opportunities.
