🪪 Introduction
If you’re living in Morocco on a residency card (carte de séjour), you’ll need to renew it every year — or every 5 years once you’re eligible.
This 2025 guide gives you a clear step-by-step process to renew your residency permit, including the documents, costs, timeline, and what to expect when visiting the authorities.
📅 When Should You Renew?
You should begin the renewal process 30 to 60 days before your current card expires.
Do not wait until the last week — delays are common.
If your card expires and you haven’t renewed, you may face:
- Travel restrictions
- Banking limitations
- Fines
📑 Documents Required (2025)
Here’s what you need to bring to the bureau des étrangers (foreigners’ police station):
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Copy of your current residency card | Front & back |
| 4–6 passport photos | Local photo studios print them for ~$5 |
| Updated rental contract | Must be notarized again |
| Copy of passport | ID page + entry visa stamp |
| Bank statement or income proof | 3 recent months recommended |
| Medical certificate | From a local doctor (~$10–$20) |
| Police background check (if requested) | Local version if residing >1 year |
| Revenue stamps | 100 MAD stamp (~$10 USD) |
💡 Double-check with your local office — some cities ask for more or fewer documents.
🕒 How Long Does It Take?
- File submission: Same day
- Temporary receipt (récépissé): Valid for 3 months
- Card issued: 1 to 2 months later (sometimes longer)
You can use the récépissé for banking, police checks, or as legal ID while waiting.
💰 Renewal Fees (2025)
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Stamp duty (timbre fiscal) | $10 |
| Notarization | $5 – $10 |
| Photos + printing | $5 |
| Optional: Fixer service | $20 – $50 (if you hire help) |
📌 Keep all receipts and make two copies of every document.
🧠 Renewal Tips
- Don’t sign a new lease without notarizing it — it won’t be accepted
- Dress modestly and be respectful at the police office
- Speak French or bring someone who does
- Save a scanned PDF of your entire file in case of loss
✅ Can You Renew for More Than 1 Year?
Yes — after 3 consecutive renewals, you may be eligible for a 5-year carte de séjour.
Approval depends on:
- Residency continuity
- Stable income
- Clean police record
Ask politely if you’re eligible when applying.
🏁 Final Word
Renewing your Moroccan residency card is a straightforward process — if you’re organized and early. Prepare your documents, visit the local police station, and keep copies of everything. Once done, you’ll have another year of worry-free living in Morocco.
