Morocco E-Visa: A Comprehensive Guide
The Morocco E-Visa is an electronic visa that allows foreign nationals from certain countries to visit Morocco for a specific purpose and duration without traveling to a Moroccan Embassy or Consulate. It was introduced as part of Morocco’s new e-Visa system for citizens of eligible countries who wish to travel to Morocco. The e-Visa is tied to your passport, and you will receive it via email.
The Morocco e-Visa system is currently undergoing a limited trial. As such, the service is only available to a specific group of travelers. On launch, e-Visas will be available to travelers from the following countries: China, India, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The Morocco e-Visa will allow its holder to enter the country for the purpose of visiting, transiting, or stop-over. Visit or holiday travel; short-term study; medical treatment, short-term business; special family relationships; making or receiving an official visit; and transit or stop-over, are acceptable purposes. You are required to obtain a Morocco visa if you are traveling with a purpose that is not on this list.
Eligibility Criteria for E-Visa
Recently, Morocco announced an e-visa that will allow the nationals of certain countries to travel to the north African nation for transit, tourism, or family visit purposes for up to 90 days. e-Visa applications need to be lodged and approved before traveling. e-Visa holders will not need a visa to collect their visa stamps upon entering the country. e-Visa is aimed at promoting Morocco as a tourist destination.
According to the Moroccan visa policy, travelers from the countries below are eligible for a Morocco e-Visa. African countries with a visa-exempt arrangement are not expected to apply.
Travelers remaining in Morocco for more than 90 days are requested to apply for a regular visa at their nearest Moroccan embassy or consulate. Moroccans abroad who are planning to travel for family visits or tourism are free from applying. Applicants that are not eligible for Morocco’s e-Visa but transiting to another country and remaining in an airport transit hall for less than 12 hours are not expected to apply or approve their visas either.
Types of E-Visas Available
The Moroccan E-Visa is a digital pass not required for all nationalities … yet! The purpose of the E-Visa is to facilitate visa requests for temporary travel. At present, there are three E-Visas available: the Tourist E-Visa, the Business E-Visa, and the Student E-Visa.
3.1. Tourist E-Visa
The tourist E-Visa will be requested for short stays in Morocco for tourism purposes; for example, cultural, leisure, or discovery stays. It is strictly prohibited to carry out any paid professional activity in Morocco during the duration of the E-Visa. The Tourist E-Visa will allow you to travel to Morocco numerous times, with a maximum duration of 30 days per trip (the duration of the tourist E-Visa is 90 days). Children must have their own individual Tourist E-Visas.
3.2. Business E-Visa
Holders of a Business E-Visa are authorized to travel to Morocco numerous times for business appointments, conferences, meetings, or exchanges, without obtaining any payment. The holder can stay a maximum of 90 days in total duration, over several trips of 30 days each. Minors must have their own individual Business E-Visas.
3.3. Student E-Visa
The Student E-Visa is intended for foreign pupils registered in schools of studies established in the Kingdom of Morocco, and approved by the Moroccan authorities. Internal transport conditions as well as family accommodation, support, and insurance conditions must also be attached to the visa applications. No commercial activities will be tolerated on Moroccan soil. The Koranic studies will also not be accepted. The Student E-Visa is issued with a duration of 90 days, renewable, or for a single course of study. It allows entry into Morocco once. Minors are included with their legal representatives on their visas.
Tourist E-Visa
The Tourist E-Visa for Morocco is a vital travel document that permits foreign nationals to visit Morocco for leisure and tourism purposes. As more and more foreign nationals want to visit Morocco for tourism, the Moroccan government has decided to give them facilitation by the introduction of the Morocco Tourist E-Visa which can be processed electronically. The Tourist E-Visa will be a Multiple Entry E-Visa and will be electronically linked with the applicant’s passport. The E-Visa is an electronic authorization that allows the traveler to board their flight to Morocco. It is a required document for foreign nationals from countries that require a visa to enter Morocco.
Tourism is an important part of the economy for Morocco and Tourism E-Visa is a great initiative that will help in the growth of Tourism in Morocco. The Tourist E-Visa is for travelers wishing to visit Morocco for the following purposes:
– Travel for leisure and sightseeing purposes – Travel for a family or friends visit – Travel for medical tourism – Travel for attending cultural or religious events or festivals – Travel for attending a short-training program or workshop that is not paid from a local source – Travel for Training and Evaluation of Sports – Travel for the purposes of attending sports events, seminars, conferences, or business meetings – Travel for any other similar purposes not specified
Certain conditions need to be fulfilled in order to apply for a Tourist E-Visa to Morocco. A tourist visa must be obtained if:
– The traveler is traveling for the above-mentioned purposes. – The traveler is a citizen of a country requiring a visa to enter Morocco. – The traveler must possess a passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond the stay in Morocco.
Business E-Visa
Morocco E-Visa: A Comprehensive Guide
3.2 Business E-Visa
The Business E-Visa allows visitors to attend meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and other business-related events in Morocco. In this section, we will explain what the Business E-Visa is, and how you can apply for one.
What is a Business E-Visa?
The Business E-Visa is an electronic visa that allows prospective visitors to enter Morocco for business purposes. It is ideal for a foreign national looking to attend a business event in Morocco such as a meeting, conference, or exhibition.
The Business E-Visa is valid for up to 30 days and is a single-entry visa.
How to Apply for a Business E-Visa
You can apply for a Business E-Visa using the government’s online application portal. You will need to complete the application form and submit it along with the required documents. The Business E-Visa application processing time is a maximum of 30 days. You are advised to apply for your Business E-Visa at least 30 days before your planned travel date to allow for processing. While it is currently being tested, the Business E-Visa will have a longer processing time than the traditional visa.
The application procedure and required documents are explained below.
Application Procedure
1. Prepare the Required Documents Gather the documents you will need to submit with your application. You will need: – Passport: Your passport must be valid and in good condition. It will be checked for validity on entering, leaving, and during your stay, and must also be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of departure. You will also need a color copy of the passport’s information page. – Business Invitation Letter: A letter from the Morocco-based company or organization that is sponsoring your visit. The letter should bear the contact details of the company and explain your purpose of travel. – Passport Photo: One recent front-facing passport photo against a white background. – Travel Itinerary: Proof of your planned accommodation and travel arrangements for your visit, including entry and exit flights.
Student E-Visa
In addition to tourism and business opportunities, Morocco aims to increase the number of international students who visit and study in the country. The Moroccan government hopes that this new category of e-visa will simplify the process of applying for study for students with Turkish, Brazilian, and Indian citizenship in the first phase, and will expand this option to students from the 90 countries that currently require a visa to enter Morocco. This new system will provide students with an easy online application procedure allowing them to begin their studies as a private student or as a student at a foreign institution that has an approved agreement with a public Moroccan institution.
These recent changes are part of a larger upward trend witnessed by the Moroccan Kingdom, as it aims to attract the study of more than 200,000 international students. The Kingdom has a rich Arab and Berber cultural heritage and has become a bridge between East and West, making cultural and academic exchanges a key factor in local development. This development also depends on the training of future actors, and their preparation to face the challenges of the global economy. The Kingdom recognizes the major role that students can play in these exchanges and the great potential that Morocco can offer them: an emerging economy, offers of higher education whose openness has facilitated the influx of foreign students in several fields, opportunities for personal development, a mix of cultures, and a diversified sociocultural environment.
With these objectives in mind, it is clear that Morocco is developing an attractive and competitive offer allowing it to place itself on the international education market. Moreover, given the historical ties that have always linked Morocco to West Africa and Europe, it is important to develop institutional partnerships aimed at promoting student mobility and first-rate training programs. The student e-visa process will be open to students who want to study in a higher education establishment or institution governed by a convention.
Application Process for E-Visa
The E-Visa applicant should consider the necessary documents and processing time before filing an application. The first thing to do is to collect all the required paperwork for the Morocco E-Visa. The major document to submit for this online application process is a passport with at least 6 months before its expiration date after the arrival in Morocco.
Morocco E-Visa was launched to make the visa process more accessible. E-Visa holders can request for entry for tourism and business purposes, with a stay per entry of 90 days. Applicants must submit accurate information, such as their personal details, educational and work history, passport details, travel details, and accommodation address in Morocco. The E-Visa application must be filed at least 3 days before the departure date. For a smoother entry into Moroccan territory and faster processing, travelers should file for an E-Visa 7 days ahead. It should also be noted that travelers might be contacted to confirm their itinerary and the purpose of their travel.
In addition to the application form, the following documents must be submitted at the time of the application: passport, photo, flight reservation, accommodation address in Morocco, and proof of subsistence. The Morocco E-Visa allows certain eligible countries to apply online. Travelers need to fulfill the requirements beforehand and fill in the application carefully. The processing time for the Morocco E-Visa ranges from 1 to 3 business days, but it is always suggested to apply for it 7 days before the travel date. Please make sure you have all the required documents ready at the time of your application to speed up the process. However, this timeline may tumble depending on various factors.
Online Application Steps
To visit Morocco for a short-term stay without a visa for leisure, culture, business, or some other purpose, most foreigners can do so without a visa. But if you wish to visit Morocco for other purposes or are coming from a visa-regime country, you are required to apply for either a visa or the currently implemented electronic visa called e-Visa, which can be applied online without a visit to a Moroccan diplomatic mission abroad. The e-Visa currently applies to nationals of only 5 out of the 96 visa-regime countries. The Moroccan authorities are currently studying the possibility of expanding the e-Visa system to other countries. Here is the general procedure for online processing of the Moroccan e-Visa.
The e-Visa application is generally treated in the same way as any other visa application in that documents confirming the visa applicant’s means of support as well as the purpose of his or her stay and their planned transportation are the same. You can expect to submit documents related to your planned transportation, your accommodation, and personal cover letter, as well as a scanned copy of the main page of your passport and your identity photo to complete the e-Visa application online. But unlike traditional visa applicants from Morocco visa-regime countries, you will not be asked to provide additional documents to prove your financial means. You will be contacted only if any additional document is required. All communication must be done in either French or English, depending on which language you prefer to use in your request for the e-Visa. It could stand out that the Moroccan government warns that the online platform must not be used to apply for the e-Visa without a real email account.
Required Documents
To travel to Morocco as a tourist, you will need to obtain a travel visa depending on your nationality and the requirements of the trip. However, if your country is on the list of visa-exempt countries, you will need to have a valid travel authorization to enter the Moroccan territory. Even though the e-Visa is not available for all nationalities with visa requirements for Morocco, the process is so simple that we encourage you to keep reading.
To apply for the electronic visa, it’s mandatory the following documentation depending on circumstance(s). If you stay in Morocco on holiday and you apply for a tourist e-Visa, you will have to provide the following documents: valid passport with more than 6 months of validity at the time of entry and that has a blank page; travel itinerary; hotel reservation; confirmation of return or onward flight and travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000. Provided you are going to stay in hotels during the entire trip in Morocco, the documentation is simpler, but if you plan to camp or spend the night in a private house, the Moroccan government may require other guarantees. The documentation is required depending on the type of travel and where you will stay in Morocco. People from countries such as France, Germany or the Netherlands, who apply for a tourist e-Visa but travel as tourists, must attach all the required documents.
If you are going to travel for family visits, you must submit the following documentation: valid passport with more than 6 months of validity at the time of entry; original letter of invitation and passport or residence card of the host in Morocco and with a copy signed by the Moroccan citizen. For business travel, you will need: valid passport with more than 6 months of validity at the time of entry; company letter of invitation certifying the nature of the business visit; travel itinerary with flights, confirming the date of travel to Morocco and liability confirmation.
Processing Time
Generally speaking, E-Visas are quite fast to process, with many taking 1-3 days, as long as the application is submitted correctly with all the needed documentation. However, it is best practice to apply for an E-Visa a bit earlier, to make accommodations for any mishaps that might occur. In some cases, multiple processing options are available. Applicants can often pay extra in order to have their application pushed. In addition, if there are any issues with the application, such as errors or problems with documentation, this can delay processing and further speed-up options may not be viable.
E-Visa Fees and Payment Methods
When applying for an Online Morocco visa, there is a service fee that must be paid once the application is accepted. The service fee includes the processing fee to allow us to check your e-Visa application and help you through the digitized processes. Also, there are other fees that vary according to the means of payment. The Morocco government decides the fees required for an e-Visa application. The payment for your e-Visa can be done in either one of these electronic payment forms:
– Credit Card.
– Debit Card.
– Payment accounts such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover card.
We also work with mobile apps or digital wallets incorporated by a processing company and we allow payments to be processed via a system, so you can request the services you need either by credit or debit card, Paypal or other electronic systems.
You need to keep in mind the following things. Choose the payment accounts in your application if you have accounts with Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. When making your payment please use a valid credit card in your name; you will need it to pay either your application fee or optional service fee if you wish to get the response on that application in less than the regular four days. The e-Visa fee does not include the service charge imposed by the processing company. You will see that amount on your application when you request your e-Visa. That will be determined on the payment method you selected, and it will be higher if you select PayPal.
Payments are displayed in US dollars; if you are using credit cards that are not in this currency, your payment will be converted to your currency according to the exchange rate that your bank uses. The Moroccan visa and service fee must be paid with a credit or debit card, or other payment accounts at the moment of applying for your visa.
E-Visa Validity and Duration of Stay
The Morocco e-Visa is valid for 90 days after arrival. This means that once you enter Morocco with a valid e-Visa, you can stay for any duration of your choice, as long as the e-Visa is still valid. However, when planning your trip, please keep in mind the following restrictions. E-Visa applications allow the applicant to stay for a maximum of 30 days on a single trip, however, you are only allowed a maximum of 90 days within 180 days from the moment of entry. This means that if you enter Morocco for 30 days, you cannot apply for another e-Visa for 60 days after your departure.
This Moroccan e-Visa is a single-entry visa, which means that the allowed maximum of 30 days is only valid for your first entry. If you exit and enter the country for a second time, you will be asked to provide a valid COVID-19 Certificate of Vaccination or proof of a negative PCR Test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.
When traveling with your minor children, you can include them in your e-Visa application, or they can have separate applications made for them. It is highly recommended to include them on a separate application because if you have more than three children, e-Visa applications do not allow you to include more than three minors. In either case, please ensure that their passport is valid for at least three months beyond your date of arrival. However, your children should have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival if they are applying for an e-Visa separation from you.
Lastly, it is important to know that you cannot use the online system for e-Visa application if you are in France, Italy, or Spain when making the application. If you are in these countries, you must use a different method, which will be specified in due time.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While the Morocco e-Visa process is usually smooth, occasional obstacles may arise. Understanding these potential roadblocks can help you avoid pitfalls during your travel planning.
7.1. Application Rejections As with all visas, there are requirements to meet before being accepted for the e-Visa. If your application is denied for any reason, most visa service providers will send you an email listing why. You must check to see what the problem is so that when you apply again, the issue doesn’t come back to haunt you. Some reasons applications get rejected include the following:
• Your whole name is not stated in every document. Be sure to include your full name in any supporting documents containing your identity. If you are changing any of your names because of marriage, divorce, etc. be careful to state this on every document as well. • The file size is incorrect. For document uploads, many visa service providers want you to upload a specific-sized document. When uploading, make sure your files meet the requirements. • Your photo is not correct. Each visa service provider has its own photo requirements; make sure the one you use satisfies your provider. It is wise to check this section before uploading your documents. • Your application is inconsistent. Make sure the information you enter on your application matches what is on your passport and supporting documents. • Your passport is boring. This is a reason applications get rejected. For your e-Visa, it is required to have 2 blank pages that are free of stains.
7.2. Technical Issues Having trouble using the visa application site? An error message telling you about a technical difficulty? These tips should get you back to applying in no time!
Common issues while using a visa service’s website generally occur from two main problems: either your device has issues or the visa service provider’s site has issues. First check for device issues. Are you using a browser that has been known to have errors? Switch to one of the major browsers used such as Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge. Is your device compatible with the site? Make sure it is. Also check if your internet is working properly; sometimes the most tech-savvy of us forget to check!
Application Rejections
Usually, visa applications are rejected due to portrait photos that do not meet the requirements. If you choose to pay the consular fee and skip the online application step, the payment of the fee is the last step of the simple process, which is beneficial if your application is rejected: you will not lose any money. If you think you might be rejected, do not pay the fee online! If your timed E-visa is rejected, because you have not attached your entry stamps although you have previously done the same procedure for a time unlimited duration, wait 5 or 7 days and present a new application without those stamps. The visa will be sent to you without notification that you have been accepted. It is worth noting that the holders of the temporary visas and tourists whose E-visas are being studied at the Moroccan consulate cannot enter Morocco. If you have not received your E-visa by email after 72 hours or your application is being reviewed beyond that period, or if your application has been rejected, but the consulate does not inform you, contact the embassy of your nationality in Morocco or the Moroccan embassy in your country. If submitting your inquiry is beneficial, depend on the case. If you do not want to allow an application to be made and you worry that your E-visa transport will not be returned, get yourself a copy and contact them later. Otherwise, if you would have already been informed of your application rejection, would it be empty of E-gas services so lengthy.
Technical Issues
A malfunctioning website can have serious consequences. A user may perceive an eVisa’s online application form as well-designed and smooth. However, the backend system could be a completely different story. If the backend part does not function properly, then worries could arise. A miserable experience of an unclear website would lower the application flow because the user is discouraged from filling the form due to concerns regarding its integrity. Languishing concerns about providing data in an unsafe environment prevent any user from relying on it and correctly filing his application form.
These feelings could be induced when the backend does not verify the uploaded data correctly. The online application form allows users to upload images or files such as scan copies of their travel documents or IDs, travel itineraries, hotel bookings, or passport-sized photos. These images and files are obviously crucial pieces of evidence for the eVisa approval process. Thus, they should be thoroughly examined. If done poorly, then this scanning process may let godless actions go unpunished. So users from countries considered as risky would find it way more comfortable to crack the encryption. In terms of violating eVisa regulations, this method may be carried out by producing a fake itinerary or a fake travel document image that appears to look similar to a real one. Such crime may even go unnoticed when the criminals are in fact in a harmed position, due to eVisa entering travelers into the public order or health that the system wants to avoid by only allowing peaceful and blessed individuals into the country.
Traveling to Morocco with an E-Visa
As the Kingdom of Morocco modernizes and develops its tourism and digital services sector, travelers planning trips to this nation can take advantage of the e-Visa, which began being offered in 2022. The electronic visa is valid for one entry for purposes of tourism and visits up to 90 days within 180 calendar days. To truly enjoy all that Morocco has to offer, visitors must ask for and be granted an e-Visa before boarding their flight. Then, upon arrival in Morocco, they must comply with the required entry procedures as well as with customs regulations.
8.1. Arrival Procedures
Before boarding the flight to Morocco, travelers must print their e-Visa approval and show it to airline employees and immigration officials as necessary. Airline employees check the e-Visa approval against the official database to ensure that it is valid. If the approval is valid, airline employees will print and attach a boarding pass sticker to the traveler’s passport with adhesive tape, and immigration officials will stamp the e-Visa when entering Morocco.
Upon arrival in the country, visa waiver travelers must pass through special entry gates labeled “E-Visa Holders”. These entry gates are also accessible to travelers showing an up-to-date passport or without a visa. At the entry gates, travelers are required to present the following necessary documents: (i) Airport departure card, (ii) E-Visa sticker stamp, (iii) Passport, valid for at least 6 months, and (iv) E-Visa approval. Moroccan customs authorities may ask travelers for additional documents, such as an onward ticket, itinerary, proof of lodging, land ownership, proof of sufficient funds, and proof of a checked and unopened sealed envelope containing prohibited materials.
Arrival Procedures
Traveling to Morocco with an E-Visa
The Morocco e-Visa is an official document permitting entry into and travel within Morocco. The electronic visa is electronically linked to the passport of the traveler. Each traveler, including minors, must have their own visa. It is the traveler’s responsibility to check that they have a valid e-Visa to enter Morocco. Travelers must also present the e-Visa together with the same passport used to apply.
The requirement for some travelers to present an e-Visa when entering Morocco does not negate any other entry requirements in force, which you are invited to check. Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may be asked for evidence that you can support your stay in Morocco (bank account statement, letter of invitation from the host, proof of accommodation reservation, return ticket, etc.).
Upon arrival in Morocco, a border officer will verify your documents, and may ask you for additional information or for other documents besides the e-Visa, and will proceed to your fingerprinting and photograph you if necessary. Traveling to Morocco without having a valid e-Visa may result in refusal to enter Moroccan territory. You are strongly encouraged to contact the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country for additional entry and immigration information before your trip.
Customs Regulations
Upon arrival at a Moroccan port of entry, travelers must pass through customs clearance. Customs authorities may conduct both x-ray examinations of luggage and the opening and inspection of luggage. It is especially important for travelers to keep their belongings close to them and to keep an eye on their luggage at all times. When passing through Moroccan customs, travelers can choose between the green or red channel. All travelers must then complete a customs declaration form. Note, however, that customs regulations are stricter at Morocco than they are in the United States. Be prepared for various items to be forbidden and prohibited for import, and do not take any items you are concerned may be banned. Import and export regulations are monitored strictly. Depending on the items and amounts transported, violations may lead to lost property or even imprisonment. Travelers should be able to provide proof of legal possession for exporters, including citizens residing in Morocco. If customs queries belongings, travelers can be asked to provide proof of ownership, including receipts and bills. For items without proof of ownership, such as camera, smart phone, and laptop, travelers may be asked several questions regarding details about the belongings. If there is any difficulty in providing proof of ownership, having travelers sign a handover form may be the only option, allowing the item(s) to be stored at Moroccan customs. Customs at Morocco makes necessary storage measures in order to prevent illegal imports and exports and other violations of foreign and domestic restrictions.
Extending Your E-Visa
Most travelers choose to use an e-Visa for a short trip to Morocco, whether for tourism, business, or a family holiday. However, there may be occasions when you need to extend your stay longer than expected. In order to extend your tourist or business visa in Morocco, you must request an extension at your local police station or the Moroccan Bureau for Foreign Affairs and Immigration. Extensions are granted at their discretion, and your chances of success will greatly depend on the way you present your case. Providing supporting documentation and evidence is vital. The reasons for the extension usually need to be serious and compelling, as well as justified. For example: you are waiting for a flight back home, but you want to move your flight, but this is not possible yet; you are ill; you need to stay in Morocco to help a family member; etc. To apply for an extension, you will need the following documentation: * A document justifying your request (a letter in French stating the reason for your stay). * A copy of your current visa for Morocco (if you have one). * Your passport’s identification page and the entry stamp to Morocco. * A recent passport photo. * Proof of sufficient funds. * For a medical issue, a medical certificate. * For a family issue, official documents proving your relationship with the family member. * Payment for the extension fee. Your extension request must be submitted seven days before the expiry of your current visa. It is also best to book an appointment at the authority where you want to submit the extension request. Extensions are generally granted for a period of 30 days and can only be renewed once. The processing time for an extension request is usually around 48 hours.
E-Visa vs Traditional Visa
E-visa have recently redefined the whole visa process bringing it on the palms of our hands. Previously applications for Countries visas were long waiting periods and tedious procedures, including phone calls and e-mails to the Immigration Authorities. Fortunately, today and along the recent years many countries have integrated e-visa in their services especially countries which have high levels of tourism, which helps to increase their economy. For that, it’s important to consider the differences between an E-visa and a Traditional Visa, so travelers know what they’ll face when preparing their upcoming vacations. The traditional visa, also referred to as a consular visa, is the most respectful way to seek entry to a country because it allows the Government Officials to scrutinize the application thoroughly. Applying for your visa must be made through a nearby embassy or consulate. Approval, denial, and any complications regarding the visa issuance will be handled between the visa applicant and the embassy or consulate. Most importantly, all visa processing timeframes can vary dramatically from embassy or consulate. Thus, it is very much encouraged that you apply as earliest as feasible. Majority of travelers are generally in and out of the embassy on the same day. While the process is quick, don’t think that it is trouble-free. Travelers are still advised to follow the guidance on the website carefully because the Instructions for Visa Application page goes over everything regarding what you need to do, the required documents, the visa fees, and the medical Examination so that you can proceed quickly.
Advantages of E-Visa
E-Visas offer a myriad of advantages, making them a favorable option for many travelers. One of the primary benefits is convenience. These electronic visas can be applied for online from anywhere in the world. You can submit your application from your home, using a smartphone, tablet, or computer, and avoid the hassle of making an appointment with an embassy, standing in line, or dealing with paperwork. Once your visa is approved, it is sent to your email just like any other document. To use your E-Visa, all you have to do is print it. So, you can even avoid an extra trip to the airport before your travels. In order to gain approval for an E-Visa, the application process is relatively easy. Generally, you have to fill out an online application form and provide a few documents, like a scan of your passport and a passport photograph. E-Visa applications usually get approved faster than traditional visa applications. In many cases, you can have your E-Visa just a few hours after applying for it. If you manage to submit your E-Visa application in time, there is no major disadvantage in getting one. The only potential issue that you may have is getting a refund from the issuing agency and in cases in which you can’t find the agency that has issued your e-Visa, you may have additional troubles getting through a country passport control.
Disadvantages of E-Visa
Despite the numerous advantages of e-Visas, there are also some disadvantages of e-Visas. E-Visas are limited in terms of duration of stay in Morocco and the number of entries. The major disadvantage of e-Visas if you compare it to a traditional visa is that an e-Visa, in most cases, cannot be renewed or modified. Therefore for you to stay longer in Morocco, you have to apply for a traditional visa in Moroccan embassies or consulates in your country or go back to your home country and apply from there if it’s not possible to go back to your country consider visiting the nearest Moroccan embassy or consulate for your visa. Therefore if you are planning to stay a long time in Morocco you might want to consider applying for a traditional visa from the beginning as that would save you time and hassle. The good thing is that if you already traveled to Morocco once at least utilizing the same type of visa that you are applying, you are exempted from visit the Moroccan embassy and consulate for the visa renewal. The embassy will just keep processing your application, and you won’t be invited for an interview or meeting. There are some other limitations too. E-Visas are issued for specific categories of individuals. E-Visas are generally issued for short periods of time compared to traditional visas. The process of e-Visa application is a bit complicated. You have to upload more documents than the usual to apply for an e-Visa and also have to send the documents by mail. For some countries there are further charges compared to traditional visa and not to mention non-refundable fees in case your application gets rejected. Some applicants may also face technical issues during the application process, and there is also the risk that the e-Visa may be sent after the travel date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find below the answers to the most common questions asked about the Morocco e-Visa.
11.1. Who needs a Visa for Morocco? Foreigners transiting or wishing to enter the Moroccan territory require a visa unless an exemption applies. Holders of valid travel documents issued by the countries or regions listed below are therefore not subject to a visa to enter the Moroccan territory.
11.2. Do US citizens need a Visa for Morocco? U.S. citizens don’t need a Visa to enter Morocco for a stay of no more than 90 days.
11.3. Do Canadian citizens need a Visa for Morocco? Canadian citizens don’t need a Visa to enter Morocco for a stay of no more than 90 days.
11.4. Do Australian citizens need a Visa for Morocco? Australian citizens don’t need a Visa to enter Morocco for a stay of no more than 90 days.
11.5. Do Chinese citizens need a Visa to travel to Morocco? Yes, Chinese citizens need a Visa to travel to Morocco. Chinese passport holders require a visa to travel to Morocco, The only exempt are holders of Diplomatic and Service passports.
11.6. Is Morocco taking tourists? Morocco is re-opening all tourist activities as long as they are made through organized tours. All tourists must have a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before entry. Visitors who arrive in Morocco without such proof of a negative test will be tested on arrival.
11.7. Will the EU open borders for Morocco? Considering the data provided by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the outdated map of the restrictions for the circulation of travelers from third countries, Morocco, as well as more than 50 other countries, will remain red. In July the Three European Associations expressed their refusal regarding the opening of European borders with Morocco.
Tips for a Successful E-Visa Application
There are a number of dos and don’ts that can help make your Morocco e-Visa application process run more smoothly. It is vital that you take heed of the things listed here if you want to save time and money. Not following these tips could mean that your visa gets rejected or that there are processing delays.
Do:
Apply Online: All e-Visas must be applied for online. Be sure to use the official immigration website to avoid scams or misleading companies. Have Your Travel Documents Ready: You will have to upload a number of travel documents for your e-Visa application, including passports and photos, to complete the application. Ensure that they are all valid, in the correct format, and uploaded properly. Submit Your Application: While there is no rush to get your application in, it is recommended that you submit your application at least 3-4 days before you travel to your destination. Many e-Visas are processed within 3 business days. Submit Additional Information: Occasionally, your application may need to be reviewed further. If this happens, be prepared to answer questions and provide more documents quickly, as processing could be delayed. Keep an Eye on Your Email: Email is your primary form of communication regarding your visa and any changes to its status. It is crucial that you check your email for updates frequently. Collect Your Visa: After your visa has been approved, you will be contacted via email. Make sure you have access to a printer – you will need to print your visa out! Follow Up: Make sure that you have everything you need for your trip. If you need to confirm that a visa is still valid, contact the Visas Department.
Don’t: List the Wrong Passport Number: One of the most common mistakes applicants make is listing the wrong passport number. Be sure to double check that the number you put in is the correct one, as any mistakes can delay processing. Forget the Photo Requirements: Your passport photo must meet certain requirements, including that it is no more than one month old and is a color photo on a white background. Also, ensure that it doesn’t have any shadows. Forget Your Print Out: After your application has gone through processing, you will have to collect your visa online. Be sure to print it out before you arrive in Morocco!
Cultural Considerations for Travelers
Traveling to Morocco is an exciting experience, and travelers can enhance their experience while being in Morocco by being respectful of local customs and trying to adapt to the local culture, as cultural differences can sometimes be a source of misunderstanding. From the warm hospitality of Moroccan people to local practices and food, there is a lot travelers ought to know about Morocco. Here are some cultural considerations that are useful for travelers going to Morocco.
Moroccans are generally very private people, especially when it comes to matters regarding intimacy, sex and nudity; although they are very tolerant of other people’s differences. A general good guideline to follow is to adhere to practices you find in the West while enjoying and indulging well in local customs that you find special; all while being respectful and mindful. The country is a Muslim country and Islam is very present in the company’s life. As such, you will hear the call to prayer multiple times a day. It is important to respect Muslim practices, for example by not drinking or eating in front of those fasting during Ramadan which is a month of fasting held once a year. Despite the religious nature of the country, you will find that local people, especially in urban areas do not stick strictly to these values and are tolerant of you if you are.
Safety and Security in Morocco
It is generally safe to travel to Morocco. However, it is suggested that travelers take common precautionary measures. Pickpockets are a concern in Morocco’s more crowded areas, such as Marakesh Djemaa El Fna square, and scams do occur, usually regarding a misguided friendship. With drug-related crime on the rise, it’s wise to be extra cautious in urban areas. For women, dress conservatively and consider traveling with a friend. The legal drinking age in Morocco is 18, and indulging in alcohol can lead to trouble; public drunkenness is illegal. Do not drink and drive, and also ensure that your taxi has a functional meter. When driving, you can come across crazy things, like stray dogs and aggressive salesmen.
Scams are among the biggest dangers in Morocco. Tourists are an obvious target, and hustlers will appeal to your gullibility. Just in case, always be on guard. Especially with men – who are overly eager; If it looks suspicious, it probably is. The best way to guarantee safety is to just say no to any unsolicited offers. Identify yourself with a smile, be polite, but also firm; people get the message and usually leave you alone – with a grunt. For the Ladies! – There have always been people in Morocco who get particularly close, but now also in shops and hotels. So, if someone is bothering you that way, don’t be too friendly – tell them to back off. Also, resist all unsolicited offers of assistance; be firm, polite, and serious when you refuse. Otherwise, they may want some reward for the “help.” If you do accept help, confirm the price in advance. Signs are all over for the museums; go back and check as well as the price for bathroom usage. Otherwise, make sure you pay before you go in. If any merchants try to reach for your stuff – shoo them off.
Exploring Morocco: Key Destinations
Unlike the more intimate nature of the essay travel type of Morocco, the experience is truly much more special when it comes to traveling and exploring Morocco. No trip to Morocco can be considered without encasing a series of exhaustive trips with completely different local characteristics. In this section, we will detail some of the magical destinations around Morocco.
15.1. Marrakech
One of the cornerstones of any traveler and explorer of Morocco is undeniably the city of Marrakech. Dreaming of intense and colorful images of a sandy desert, bright sun, sandy streets, and typical buildings with an atmospheric feeling of the Innumerable Medina’s authentic souks – A large number of delightful images seeming fascinatingly distant are linked with the dream of traveling to and visiting Morocco. Over the years, the city of Marrakech has gained immense popularity as a travel destination that it could hardly lose. Surrounded by the highest peaks in North Africa, the Atlas Mountains, the city of Marrakech is a unique oasis. Marrakech is also known as the city of lights, a beautiful sun color mixed with shadows forming in the minaret along the Koutoubia reflecting the joy and the light exuded by this Moroccan jewel.
15.2. Fes
One of the other key cities that combines tradition and culture in rather authentic forms and manners is the city of Fes. Located northeast near Tangier, the city of Fes is considered among the most ancient cities in the country. It is divided into two areas: the new area and the Medina. Both with their rich and diverse styles. The Medina, which medieval architecture and route system are structured to suit an otherwise harsh and warm climate, also incorporated innumerous mosques and formal colleges beside shops and workshops offering locals and tourists over decades artisanal products and pieces for different uses.
15.3. Casablanca
Located about 200 kilometers from Fes is the city of Casablanca. The economic capital of Morocco is also the city’s foremost western influence. In Casablanca, although founded on the Local Moroccan Architecture style and decorations, modern styles also characterize and define tourist attractions – The sky-reaching buildings and hotels address the city position within the country economic structure.
15.4. Chefchaouen
One of the most picturesque towns in Morocco is Chefchaouen. Considerably smaller than the major cities contacted, Chefchaouen has a unique character of incredible beauty. Known as the blue city, Chefchaouen is famous for the blue washed buildings and streets. While walking into the small Medina, an atmosphere of calm and relaxation embraces any visitor. In Chefchaouen, the traveler and explorer can find numerous shops and workshops that sell wool clothing and other diverse and artisanal products for foreign tourists.
Marrakech
Marrakech is perhaps Morocco’s most quintessential city. The gateway to the Sahara, it sees tourists pass through en route in both directions and has grown into one of the hottest destinations on the planet. The sprawling medina, with its ubiquitous souks and the chaos of its main square, draws visitors in their droves, and for good reason. Moors, Berbers, and every kind of traveler have found shelter in Morocco for centuries and their legacy shapes modern-day Marrakech. You’ll see traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, countless mosques and riads, and snow-capped mountains in the distance.
However, it’s not just the medina that draws crowds. The centuries that followed the founding of Marrakech also witnessed development beyond the original walls. Today’s Marrakech has extended outwards and the new city, the Gueliz district, is a different but fascinating contrast to what you’ll find in the old section. In addition, the beautiful countryside surrounding Marrakech is also home to wonderful Berber villages, fascinating ruins, and magnificent mountains.
Visiting during peak times is an experience to savor but also a challenge to endure. Hoards of people gather in the main square at night to witness acrobatics, snake charmers, musicians, henna tattoo artists, and food stalls serving some of the best dishes in Morocco. Crowds also line the shallow square during the day but it’s relatively easy to escape to the narrow souk alleys or surrounding streets. Outside of the main square, the souks are active all day long, and at night, it’s hard not to indulge in watching the amazing transformations that occur. The same roads are alive with street stalls, merchants set up right outside shop doors at the square’s edges, and laughter and chatter fill the air as foodies feast on tagines, skewers, and even fresh orange juice.
Fes
Fes is undoubtedly one of the oldest cities in Morocco, with its rich history and architectural beauty captivating the attention of visitors. The cultural capital of the Kingdom of Morocco is Fes, which houses the oldest university in the world, founded in 859 AD. Its narrow streets, magnificently adorned doors, and attractive sights are rich in culture. Fes is a traditional city where its residents observe long-standing customs and traditions. In recent years, Fes has attracted attention for its skiing areas nearby. The ski slopes in the Fes region witnessed a rapid redevelopment of ski areas, lodging, and tourist attractions in 2016.
The city of Fes is located in the northeastern region of Morocco. It is about 420 km from the capital city. It is divided into three parts: Fes el Bali, Fes el-Jdid, and Ville Nouvelle. Fes el Bali, a historical French-style district, is home to the world’s oldest university. Arguably, the most iconic sight in this old medina is the Chouara Tanneries, where animal skins are tanned using a method unchanged from the Middle Ages. Solitary explorers and tourists alike are usually often seen walking the streets of the old medina of Fes, getting lost as they discover iconic tourist spots along the way. Even if you do not deliberately research tourist spots, you will surely stumble upon them when traversing the old medina. Most of these tourist spots are mosques, madrasas, palaces, or historical sites built during the dynasties gone by. Some of the well-known tourist spots include a madrasa, Fes al-Bali, a gate, a mosque, and the tomb of a historical figure. However, do note that most of these sites are only accessible to Muslims.
Casablanca
Be prepared to love or hate Casablanca. The sprawling metropolis is Morocco’s largest city, a veritable grind of millions of people swirling around major thoroughfares, casually spewing diesel fumes into the air and generally going about their productive business. You’ll find huge house factories looming over narrow little lanes, making everything from blue jeans to pistachios. If you’re lucky, you’ll score an invite to one of the factories, to see how Moroccan carpets or textiles are made. Agriculture supplies the largest share of the Moroccan GDP, but industry turns a significant portion of the country’s exports. Most of those are garments that are more or less lumped together in that collective graphic nightmare we know as ‘Made in China’. No, Casablanca is not very picturesque. But it hums with vitality. If you still have the romantic notion that somewhere out there is a real city doing real things, this is it.
The core of the city is the medina, which is a cluster of ablution fountains, dark doorways, shuttered windows, and the sounds of bargaining. You may venture beyond the medina alleys and into the city streets, where you’re met with the everyday business of eating, haggling, borrowing, and scurrying – and the noise of a place near bursting with joy, laughter, pain, and impatience. Everybody walking through the city has somewhere to go. They’re determined to get there fast. They hardly notice you, but if you stop, pause, and take in the sights, sounds, and scents, you get a beautiful feeling of being in an ancient city —like when you first walked through a souk anywhere in Morocco that fizzled with life – and life that’s so outside your own hollow existence that you wish you could dive down, plunge into it, and live a thousand lives – or even one.
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is regarded as the blue town of Morocco, where the houses are painted light blue and washed in light blue colors. A small town in the high mountains of the Rif, it was founded in 1471 as a fortress to fight against the Portuguese invasion. This small picturesque town has about 35,000 inhabitants and is very touristic. It´s a major destination for travelers in Morocco, where locals speak Arabic and also Berber, but they also speak Spanish, especially in the shops. It has a beautiful medina with traditional shops, and it creates the feeling that you are in a fairy tale. In the historical center, there are small cobbled streets and some cafes. In addition to the medina, there were several places to visit near the town. However, after several accidents, it is not safe to go for hikes in the surrounding mountains.
The town of Chefchaouen is found in the stunning scenery of Cerro Boguezar. Its blue alleys and doors drawing a beautiful contrast with the green landscape around. The medina is very picturesque, and you can spend hours wandering, strolling, and visiting plenty of shops selling artisanal products and Moroccan handicrafts. It is also worth visiting the Kasbah, which has a lovely little garden, and located near it is the big square of the medina, where there is life at night. You should not miss the chefchaouen mosque: it is the only mosque in the medina. You can also hike the various passages on the medina’s highest point, in the R-on Lala Ninyia, and enjoy chefchaouen’s views; Or you may hike the white and blue houses of the medina. You will take great photographs. In addition to the beautiful blue houses of the medina, there
