Rabat Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, welcomes international travelers through Rabat-Salé Airport and other entry points. Morocco has a relatively welcoming visa policy, with many nationalities enjoying visa-free access for tourism and business purposes. The country's strategic location and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for visitors from around the world. The immigration process in Rabat is generally straightforward for most travelers. Upon arrival, visitors will go through passport control where immigration officers verify travel documents, ask basic questions about the purpose of visit, and stamp passports with the permitted duration of stay. The process typically moves efficiently, though wait times can vary depending on flight arrivals and time of day. Before traveling to Rabat, it's essential to ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry. Travelers should also be prepared to show proof of accommodation, return or onward tickets, and sufficient funds for their stay. Understanding Morocco's customs regulations and having all necessary documentation ready will help ensure a smooth entry experience.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Morocco offers visa-free entry to nationals of numerous countries for stays of up to 90 days. The country's visa policy is designed to facilitate tourism and business travel while maintaining security standards.

Visa-Free Entry

90 days within a 180-day period

Citizens of these countries can enter Morocco without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. The 90-day period is for tourism and business only; work or study requires appropriate permits. Overstaying can result in fines, detention, or future entry bans.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eVisa)

Varies by nationality, typically 30-90 days

Some nationalities can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

India China Russia Some African nations (varies)

How to Apply: Apply through the official Moroccan consular services website at least 10 business days before travel. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Applicants need a valid passport, passport photo, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation.
Cost: Approximately €25-60 EUR depending on nationality and visa type

Requirements and availability vary by nationality. Some countries that previously required traditional visas may now be eligible for eVisas. Always check current eligibility on official Moroccan government websites.

Visa Required

Typically 30-90 days, depending on visa type granted

Nationals of countries not eligible for visa-free entry or eVisa must apply for a traditional visa at a Moroccan embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply in person at the nearest Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Submit application at least 3-4 weeks before intended travel. Required documents typically include completed application form, passport photos, valid passport, proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, bank statements, and travel insurance.

Processing times vary by location and season. Some nationalities may require additional documentation or security clearances. Business visas require invitation letters from Moroccan companies. Transit visas are available for those passing through Morocco.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Rabat-Salé Airport or other entry points into Morocco, travelers will proceed through immigration and customs controls. The process is generally efficient, with clear signage in Arabic, French, and often English.

Arrival and Disembarkation

After landing, follow signs to passport control (Contrôle des Passeports). Have your passport and any required documents ready.

Immigration/Passport Control

Present your passport to the immigration officer. They will verify your documents, may ask questions about your visit, and stamp your passport with entry date and permitted duration of stay. Ensure you receive the correct stamp and duration.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to baggage claim area to collect your luggage. Check flight information screens for your carousel number.

Customs Declaration

If you have items to declare, use the red channel and complete a customs declaration form. If you have nothing to declare, proceed through the green channel. Random inspections may occur.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, you'll enter the public arrivals area where you can access transportation, currency exchange, and other services.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Ensure it has blank pages for entry/exit stamps.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Morocco within the permitted stay period. Can be electronic or printed confirmation.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter if staying with friends/family. May be requested by immigration officers.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate ability to support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but good to have available.

Visa or eVisa Confirmation

If required for your nationality, have printed confirmation of your visa approval or eVisa documentation.

Health Documentation

Any required vaccination certificates or health declarations. Requirements vary based on origin country and current health situations.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching immigration to speed up the process.

Answer immigration questions clearly and honestly. Keep responses brief and factual.

Verify that your passport stamp shows the correct entry date and permitted duration of stay before leaving the immigration counter.

Keep your passport and entry stamp safe throughout your stay - you'll need to show it when departing Morocco.

If you don't speak French or Arabic, having key information written down (hotel address, contact numbers) can be helpful.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate expenses like taxis, though rates may be better in the city.

Take note of your permitted stay duration and ensure you depart before it expires to avoid overstay penalties.

If traveling for business, have invitation letters and supporting documentation readily available even if not always requested.

Customs & Duty-Free

Morocco's customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal imports while allowing travelers to bring reasonable personal items. Understanding duty-free allowances and prohibited items will help ensure a smooth customs clearance process.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits and 1 liter of wine

Only for travelers 18 years and older. Morocco is a Muslim-majority country; discretion is advised. Alcohol cannot be imported by Moroccan nationals.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco

For personal use only. Must be 18 years or older.

Currency

Unlimited foreign currency, but amounts exceeding 100,000 MAD (approximately €10,000) must be declared

Moroccan Dirham (MAD) import/export is restricted to 2,000 MAD. Declare all currency over the threshold on arrival to avoid issues when departing.

Gifts/Goods

Personal items and gifts with total value not exceeding 2,000 MAD (approximately €200)

Items must be for personal use and in reasonable quantities. Professional equipment may require temporary import documentation.

Perfume

150ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette

For personal use only.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Morocco has strict drug laws with severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences
Weapons and ammunition - including replica weapons, without proper permits
Pornographic materials - broadly defined and strictly enforced
Items deemed offensive to Islam or Moroccan values
Counterfeit goods and pirated media
Endangered species products - including ivory, certain animal skins, and protected plants
Drones - require special permits from Moroccan authorities; entry without authorization is prohibited
Satellite phones and certain communication equipment without authorization
Laser pointers and certain electronic devices
Unmarked medications in large quantities

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only what's needed for your stay with original packaging and doctor's prescription. Certain medications legal elsewhere may be controlled in Morocco
Professional camera/video equipment - may require temporary import permit and deposit
Hunting rifles and sports firearms - require advance permits from Moroccan authorities
Cultural artifacts and antiques - export requires special authorization to prevent cultural heritage theft
Moroccan currency (Dirham) - limited to 2,000 MAD import/export
Certain food products - particularly meat, dairy, and plant products may be restricted
Religious materials for distribution - personal religious items are permitted but materials for proselytizing may be restricted

Health Requirements

Morocco does not currently require specific vaccinations for most travelers, but health requirements can change based on global health situations and your travel history. It's essential to check current requirements before departure.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or having transited through a yellow fever endemic country. Certificate must be presented at immigration.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines including MMR, DTP, chickenpox, polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers as contaminated food or water can occur
Hepatitis B - Recommended for those who might have intimate contact with locals or require medical procedures
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Rabies - Consider if you'll be around animals or in remote areas far from medical care
COVID-19 - Stay current with recommended doses per your country's guidelines

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Morocco has good medical facilities in major cities like Rabat, but quality varies and private care can be expensive. Ensure your insurance covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Some activities may require specific coverage. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers readily accessible.

Current Health Requirements: Health entry requirements can change rapidly based on global health situations. Check current COVID-19 testing, vaccination, or quarantine requirements before travel as these may be reinstated. Visit your country's travel health advisory website and the official Moroccan government websites for the latest information. Some countries may have exit requirements that differ from Morocco's entry requirements. If you've recently traveled to areas with disease outbreaks (yellow fever, Ebola, etc.), additional screening or documentation may be required.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Rabat for citizen services, lost passports, emergencies, and travel assistance

Register with your embassy's traveler registration system before departure. Keep emergency contact numbers saved in your phone and written down separately.

Immigration Authority

Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) - Moroccan national police and immigration authority

For visa extensions, residence permits, and official immigration matters. Website: www.dgsn.gov.ma

Emergency Services

Emergency services number: 190 (Police), 150 (Ambulance/SAMU), 15 (Fire Brigade)

112 also works for general emergencies from mobile phones. French or Arabic typically required; ask your hotel or locals to assist if needed.

Tourist Police

Brigade Touristique - Specialized police for tourist assistance in major cities including Rabat

Can assist with tourist-related issues, scams, and provide information in multiple languages.

Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Official source for visa information and consular services

Website: www.diplomatie.ma - Available in Arabic, French, and English

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (included on parent's passport is not sufficient). If a child is traveling with only one parent or with non-parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent(s) or legal guardian, along with copies of birth certificates. This is not always requested but prevents potential issues. Moroccan authorities are vigilant about child protection. For divorced parents, custody documentation may be requested. Unaccompanied minors require special documentation and airline arrangements.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Morocco require: valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 21 days before travel but not more than 12 months prior), veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, microchip identification (ISO 11784/11785 compliant), and import permit from Moroccan authorities. Dogs and cats under 3 months old cannot be imported. Certain breeds may be restricted. Check with your airline for pet travel policies. Consider that Morocco may have different standards for pet accommodation and services. Plan for potential quarantine or additional inspections upon arrival.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas/visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days. For longer stays, you must apply for a residence permit (carte de séjour) before your authorized stay expires. This requires proof of purpose (work contract, student enrollment, property ownership, retirement income, etc.), valid passport, photos, proof of accommodation, financial means, and possibly health certificates. Apply at local police headquarters in your area of residence. Overstaying your authorized period can result in fines (approximately 200-300 MAD per day), detention, deportation, and future entry bans. If you need to stay longer, exit and re-enter, but repeated visa runs may be questioned by immigration officials.

Business Travelers

Business visitors entering visa-free or with business visas should carry invitation letters from Moroccan companies, proof of business registration in home country, and details of business activities. Attending conferences or meetings is generally acceptable under tourist/business visitor status. However, actual employment, receiving payment from Moroccan sources, or extended business activities require work permits. Setting up a business requires separate legal processes and residence permits. Keep documentation of all business activities and contacts.

Dual Nationals

Travelers with dual nationality including Moroccan citizenship must enter and exit Morocco using their Moroccan passport. This is strictly enforced. Moroccan nationals, even with other citizenships, are subject to Moroccan laws including military service obligations for males. Dual nationals may face restrictions on consular assistance from their other country of nationality while in Morocco. If you have Moroccan heritage, verify your citizenship status before travel as you may be considered Moroccan regardless of other nationalities held.

Journalists and Media

Professional journalists and media crews should obtain accreditation from the Moroccan Ministry of Communication before arrival. Tourist visas do not permit professional journalism activities. Bring equipment lists and proof of journalistic credentials. Filming in certain areas (government buildings, military sites, border regions) is restricted. Unauthorized journalism activities can result in detention, equipment confiscation, and deportation. Contact the Moroccan embassy for media visa procedures well in advance of travel.