Morocco

When traveling to Morocco, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Morocco, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business meetings
• » Attend and participate in a trade show
• » Participate in classroom training
• » Attend a seminar or conference

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Morocco?

Many nationals, including those from Canada, European Union member states, and the United States are eligible for a visa waiver and are not required to obtain a visa to enter Morocco for short-term business purposes.

If your nationality is not eligible for a visa waiver, you must obtain a Business Visa from a Moroccan Embassy or Consulate prior to travel. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling to determine eligibility for a visa waiver or Business Visa.

What types of activities require work authorization?

Business visitors may be permitted to engage in some professional activities on a short-term basis, so long as they do not establish a legal employment relationship with an entity in Morocco. Permissible activities are determined on a case-by-case basis and may include systems installation, technical repairs/maintenance, or consulting. However, some additional conditions or requirements may apply. Please consult with your immigration provider for an individual assessment before traveling to determine eligibility for a short-term work authorization exemption.

If I am traveling to Morocco for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

The requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Morocco. The most common type of work authorization for Morocco is a Work Permit and Residence Permit.

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Nationals of Algeria, Senegal, and Tunisia are not required to obtain a Work Permit to work in Morocco. However, registrations or other formalities may be required prior to working or residing in Morocco.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.