Morocco Tourist Visa: Morocco is another ancient land travelers love to visit. The Arabian lore calls it “The Kingdom in the West.” Also, its major attraction is Marrakech, which is a major city, built with red sandstone, and this is called the Red City.
No just that. Morocco is known for its beautiful beaches, soothing massages, nightlife, and more!
So, are you all buckled up to visit Morocco? Well, for that, you must have all your visa requirements figured out. Without further ado, let’s go about doing that. So, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a visa to Morocco. Let’s get started.
Do You Need a Tourist Visa for Morocco?
Morocco is kind of very flexible. Especially, when it comes to visa requirements. Many travelers can visit Morocco visa-free for a set period, while others would have to apply for a visa before arrival. This entirely depends on your nationality. Let’s look at this in more detail.
Visa-Free Access:
Citizens from various countries, like the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most European Union countries don’t need a visa for short visits to Morocco. These travellers can be here for up to 90 days without a visa.
Visa Required:
Travellers from certain countries like India, China, and other nations in Africa or Asia do need a visa even for shorter stays.
Types of Tourist Visas for Morocco
- Single-entry Visa
So traveller, if you want to stay in Morocco for a certain period (typically up to 90 days), this type of visa will be the most suitable. This one allows a one-time entry and exit. - Multiple-entry Visa
Plan to visit Morocco several times within a short span (usually 6 months)? A multiple-entry visa is what will allow you to re-enter the country when needed. - Transit Visa
Your plane/jet has a stoppage in Morocco while you may be visiting some other destination. You must get a transit visa! Transit visas are usually valid for not more than 72 hours.
How Should You Apply for a Tourist Visa for Morocco?
So, the process for getting a tourist visa to Morocco is very simple. Follow these steps and you’ll have all paperwork sorted out in no time!
- Step 1: Gather Required Documents
To apply for a Moroccan tourist visa, the following documents are required:- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months. This is to be effective from the day you set foot in Morocco.
- Visa Application Form: Fill up the visa form. This application form can be downloaded from the Moroccan consulate’s site.
- Passport-sized Photos: You also need to show up with two recent passport-sized photos. Those are supposed to be official pictures that meet the required specifications (don’t care about photogenic angles here).
- Flight Reservation: You will also need a copy of your round-trip flight ticket. In this matter, a flight itinerary showing entry and exit dates from Morocco would also do.
- Hotel Reservations: Proof of accommodation for your entire stay in Morocco. So like if you are staying in a hotel, show your reservations. If you are staying with a friend/relative, get a letter (an invitation) from the host.
- Financial Proof: You don’t want to roam like a vagabond, right? You have to convince the country that you are visiting them with sufficient funds. This can be done by showing your bank statement.
- Step 2: Submit Your Application
You can submit your visa application online (if your country allows it) or in person at the nearest Moroccan consulate or embassy. Well, in some cases, you may be asked to book an appointment. - Step 3: Wait for Processing
Visa processing time usually takes time (about 5-10 business days). Also, it’s more than advised to buckle up early for visa paperwork. - Step 4: Collect Your Visa
After approval, you can pick up your visa from the embassy or consulate. You can also ask them to mail it to you. This depends on the application process in your nation.
Visa Fees for Morocco
Visa fees for Morocco can vary, but here’s a general idea:
- Single-entry Visa: Approximately $30 USD
- Multiple-entry Visa: Around $50-$60 USD
- Transit Visa: Approximately $15 USD
These fees may dwindle based on your nationality. So please confirm with the consulate for the most accurate and latest pricing.
Visa Extension in Morocco
If you find yourself enjoying Morocco and need more time, that is available too! You just have to apply for a visa extension. Where? At the local immigration office. Extensions are typically allowed for up to 30 days.
Some Travel Tips for Morocco
- Weather: Well, it’s not always a beach day there. The climate in Morocco can change. Coastal cities like Casablanca have comparatively mild temperatures. But the interior can be quite hot. This is true, especially in summer.
- Dress Modestly: Yes Morocco is a popular tourist destination, still respecting local culture is very important. it’s important to dress conservatively, especially in rural areas.
- Language: People here mainly speak Arabic and Berber. But French is also commonly used. English? Well, this language is only spoken in tourist areas by the urban elite.
Safety: Morocco is generally safe for tourists. Yet you should be aware of your surroundings. Please remember to take standardized precautions. This is to be strictly followed in crowded areas.