American citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in Morocco.
However, travelers must make sure their passports are valid for at least 6 months beyond their planned date of entry and should also check any additional requirements or updates before their journey.
For longer stays or specific purposes such as employment, a Morocco visa is necessary.
Americans should contact the Moroccan Consulate or Embassy to obtain detailed information about the documents and the process for these types of visas.
Travelers should make sure they comply with local laws and regulations for a smooth visit to Morocco.
NOTE: Staying in Morocco for more than 90 days without applying for a stay extension will require one to appear before a judge prior to leaving the country.
Types of Morocco Visas for American Citizens
Morocco offers several visa options depending on the purpose and duration of the visit.
It’s crucial to choose the right visa type based on travel needs. Below are the main categories applicable to American citizens.
Short-Term Visas
Usually, Short-Term Visas are not necessary for American nationals, as they enable up to a 90-day stay in Morocco.
However, they may be needed in cases where the purpose of the visit differs from tourism or business.
For instance, individuals traveling for study, internships, or cultural exchange programs might need specific Short-Term Visas.
Long-Term Visas
The Long-Term Visas are crucial for extended stays related to work, study, or family reunification. Examples include:
- Work Visa: For individuals planning to take up employment in Morocco.
- Student Visa: For those enrolling in Moroccan institutions for long-term studies.
- Resident Visa: For Americans seeking to join family members living in Morocco.
These visas usually require additional documentation, such as proof of employment, enrollment in an educational program, or family connections.
Transit Visas
Generally, in the case when Americans only transit through Morocco and stay within the airport’s area, they don’t need a Transit Visa.
However, in some circumstances, a permit may be required. It is valid for up to 72 hours and is designed for those passing through Morocco to a third destination.
Visa on Arrival
In rare cases, Security Services may grant Short-Stay and Transit Visas at border posts, typically under exceptional circumstances or emergencies.
This option is designed to provide flexibility for travelers with urgent or unforeseen needs.
However, it is not a guaranteed solution and should not be relied upon as the primary plan. Always make sure the visa arrangements are finalized in advance to avoid complications during the journey to Morocco.
Stay, Validity, and Extensions for Morocco Visas
The validity and permitted stay of Moroccan visas depend on the permit category issued. Short-Term Visas typically allow up to 90 days of stay within their validity period and are generally not extendable.
Long-Term Visas, such as those for work, study, or family reunification, may be valid for several months to a year and can often be renewed from within Morocco with updated documentation.
Transit Visas are usually valid for up to 72 hours and are rarely extended except in emergencies.
American citizens must comply with the Moroccan visa rules and restrictions for a smooth experience and to avoid delays.
Documents Necessary to Apply for Morocco Visas
When applying for any type of Moroccan visa, having the proper paperwork is essential for a smooth process.
Americans may need the following documentation when getting the permits for Morocco:
- Copy of the valid passport: A clear and not expired document, including personal details and any relevant visa pages.
- Clear face photograph: A recent photo that meets the required size and format for applications.
- Invitation letter: A formal letter of invitation from a host or organization, outlining the purpose of the visit.
- Proof of sufficient funds: Bank statements, payslips, or other financial files.
- Evidence of accommodation: Confirmation of where the visitor will be staying, such as hotel bookings or a letter from a host.
- Travel insurance: Covering emergencies during the visit, as required by the destination.
- Onward/return ticket: Proof of travel arrangements showing the plans to leave the country, such as a confirmed return flight.
Depending on the Morocco visa type, additional items like a letter of sponsorship, proof of enrollment (for students), or a work contract may be needed.
Application Process for Morocco Visa
The process for a Morocco visa becomes particularly crucial for travelers from the USA visiting for reasons beyond tourism or business, or for those staying for a period exceeding 90 days.
An Electronic Visa application may be required for travelers whose country of citizenship is different from the United States, for those residing in another country, holding other visas, or depending on the type of passport. In this case, during the procdeure you need to:
- Visit Morocco’s official portal at https://www.acces-maroc.ma/ and select “Apply for an eVisa”.
- Type in your email address, confirm it, and click “Enter”.
- Open your email inbox and click on the verification link you received.
- Complete the first section by providing your basic details (nationality, country of residence, date of birth, passport type, travel purpose, and details of any valid visa or residence permit). Click “Next” to proceed.
- Read the travel conditions, tick the agreement boxes, and continue by clicking “Next”.
- Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport.
- If prompted, add further travel details, such as your planned arrival and departure dates, then click “Next”.
- Upload the necessary documents: a recent passport-sized photograph, the bio-data page of your passport, and, if applicable, a residence permit or valid visa. Click “Save” when done.
- The system will display your visa validity and the maximum stay permitted.
- Double-check all the information you entered, click “Enter”, and confirm by selecting “Confirm your request”.
- Choose “Proceed to payment”.
- Select your preferred processing option: Standard – around 3 working days, or Express – around one working day. Then click “Pay”.
- Provide your card payment details and press the green “Confirm payment” button.
- Once approved, your eVisa will be sent to you by email. Print it and keep a copy with your passport for your trip to Morocco.
Once the application is submitted, you’ll receive a receipt that includes important information, such as the submission date, a reference number, and instructions on when and how to check updates on the processing status of the Morocco visa.
Processing Time for Morocco Visas
The processing period for a Morocco visa depends on its type, but in each case, it’s necessary to apply early enough to get all the documents on time.
The average procedure for Moroccan visas varies, as it depends on the number of submissions, the accuracy of the provided information, the completeness of the documentation, and other factors.
Usually, the Moroccan visas obtained at the embassy take up to 10 business days (in some circumstances, it may be prolonged to 30 days).
American nationals are advised to apply well in advance—around 4–6 weeks before their intended travel date—to avoid delays.
Entry Requirements to Morocco for American Citizens
Entry conditions to Morocco must be observed by travelers from the USA for a smooth border crossing experience.
Besides a valid passport, Americans may be asked for the following documents upon arrival in Morocco:
- A residence card
- A visa
- A return ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds (the equivalent of more than 70 euros, in cash per person and per day during the stay in Morocco, or an international bank card)
- Insurance for hospital and sanitary repatriation
Failure to provide the documents may result in the denial of entry into Morocco. Travelers are strongly advised to make sure they have all necessary paperwork prepared and readily available before departure to avoid complications at the border.
IMPORTANT: Keep a copy of the U.S. passport with you at all times to ensure you have proof of identity and citizenship on hand, if required.
Morocco Diplomatic Mission in the USA
For Morocco visa applications, general inquiries, or emergencies, American travelers can reach out to the Moroccan Embassy in the United States.
The diplomatic mission serves as a primary resource for obtaining visa information, addressing travel-related questions, and providing assistance during urgent situations.
Whether you’re preparing for tourism, business, or a longer stay, the embassy is there to guide you through the process.
- Address: 3508 International Dr NW, Washington, DC 20008
- Telephone: (202) 462-7979
- Working Hours: From 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Additionally, the Morocco Consulate is located in New York and also may serve as the point of contact for Americans.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Morocco Visas
- Do American citizens need a visa for short visits to Morocco?
U.S. passport holders can stay in Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
- Can visas be extended in Morocco?
Visa extensions can be requested while in Morocco by applying at a local police station or passport office. It’s advisable to start the process well before your visa expires.
- What happens if a Morocco visa application is denied?
If your Morocco visa application is denied, you will receive a reason for the rejection. You can reapply, addressing the noted issues, or contact the Moroccan Embassy for clarity.
- Is travel insurance mandatory for Morocco?
Insurance for covering unforeseen events such as medical emergencies or trip disruptions may be required during border control.
- What visa types are available in Morocco?
Among the available types of Morocco visas are Short-Term, Long-Term, Transit, and On-Arrival Visas.
- How long must a USA passport be valid to enter Morocco?
The passport must have a validity of minimum 6 months and one blank page for US citizens who want to visit Morocco and apply for a visa.
Conclusion
Americans don’t need a visa for short tourist or business trips to Morocco, as long as their stay doesn’t exceed 90 days.
However, they must still meet entry requirements, including having a passport with at least 6 months of validity.
It is also recommended to carry proof of accommodation and return flight details, which may be requested by border authorities.
US travelers should ensure they comply with local laws and regulations to have a smooth visit to Morocco.