Morocco Travel with UK BRP

Complete guide to visa requirements and Morocco travel for UK residents

Visa Required for Most

Key Information

Visa Status
Required for Most
Duration
30-90 days
Continent
Africa
eVisa Available
Since 2022

Morocco Visa Policy for UK BRP Holders

Gateway to Africa with nationality-based visa requirements

Morocco maintains a strict nationality-based visa policy that does not automatically grant visa-free access to UK BRP holders. Unlike most other countries covered in this guide, having a UK Biometric Residence Permit does not eliminate visa requirements for Morocco - your passport nationality remains the determining factor for entry requirements.

This North African kingdom, known for its imperial cities, Atlas Mountains, and Sahara Desert, offers incredible cultural diversity but requires careful planning regarding visa requirements. Morocco launched an eVisa system in July 2022 to facilitate travel, but eligibility depends on your passport nationality and specific circumstances.

Critical Notice

UK BRP holders DO need a visa for Morocco. Unlike UK citizens who get 90-day visa-free access, BRP holders must go through the visa application process regardless of their UK residence status. This applies to virtually all passport nationalities.

UK Residence Advantage

While UK BRP status doesn't eliminate visa requirements, some applicants report potentially faster processing times and higher approval rates when applying from the UK as residents rather than from their home countries. UK residence may also allow access to Morocco's eVisa system for eligible nationalities.

MAD
Currency
GMT+1
Time Zone
19
Emergency
37M
Population

Visa Requirements by Category

Understanding Morocco's complex nationality-based visa policy

Morocco's visa policy is based primarily on bilateral agreements and diplomatic relationships. Your passport nationality determines your visa requirements, not your UK residence status.

Visa-Free Nationalities (90 days)

EU Citizens: Most EU passport holders can enter Morocco visa-free for 90 days, regardless of UK BRP status. This includes Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, and others.

Other Visa-Free Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several other developed nations have visa-free access.

Note: Even visa-free nationalities may need Electronic Travel Authorization (AEVM) in the future.

Visa Required (Despite UK BRP)

Most Asian Nationalities: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Philippines, Thailand, and most other Asian countries require visas.

Most African Nationalities: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and most African countries require visas.

Many Others: Russia, most Middle Eastern countries, many Latin American countries, and others require visas regardless of UK BRP status.

Check Your Specific Requirements

Visa policies can change frequently and may vary by specific passport type. Always verify current requirements with the Moroccan Embassy London or official Moroccan government sources before booking travel, regardless of your UK BRP status.

How to Check Your Requirements

  • Moroccan Embassy London: +44 (0)20 7581 5001 - definitive authority for UK residents
  • Official Morocco visa website: in.diplomatie.ma
  • IATA Travel Centre: Airline industry standard for travel document requirements
  • Your airline: Airlines verify visa requirements before allowing boarding

Visa Application Process

Morocco eVisa and traditional visa applications for UK BRP holders

Morocco eVisa (Preferred Method)

Since July 2022, Morocco offers an electronic visa system for eligible nationalities. UK BRP holders may access this system if their passport nationality is eligible.

1

Check Eligibility

Verify if your passport nationality is eligible for Morocco eVisa. Some nationalities can apply if they hold UK/EU/US/Canada residence permits.

2

Online Application

Complete the application at in.diplomatie.ma with personal details, travel information, and document uploads.

3

Document Upload & Payment

Upload required documents (passport, photo, BRP, accommodation proof, itinerary) and pay visa fee online.

4

Processing & Approval

Processing takes 3-7 working days. Approved eVisa sent via email. Print copy required for travel.

eVisa Requirements

  • Valid passport: Minimum 6 months validity, at least 2 blank pages
  • UK BRP card: Valid residence permit as supporting document
  • Passport photos: Recent color photos meeting specifications
  • Travel itinerary: Flight bookings and planned activities
  • Accommodation proof: Hotel reservations or invitation letter
  • Financial proof: Bank statements showing sufficient funds
  • Travel insurance: Mandatory medical coverage

eVisa Advantages

Processing time: 3-7 days | Single entry: 30 days stay | Extendable to 180 days | Can convert to multiple entry | Cost: typically $35-100 depending on nationality | No embassy visit required

Traditional Embassy Visa

For nationalities not eligible for eVisa or requiring longer stays:

  • Location: Moroccan Embassy London: 49 Queen's Gate Gardens, South Kensington, London SW7 5NE
  • Processing time: 5-15 working days
  • Appointment required: Book in advance, especially during peak seasons
  • Document submission: Original passport required (cannot use copies)
  • Multiple entry options: Available for frequent travelers
  • Longer validity: Up to 3 months single/multiple entry visas available

Required Documents for Embassy Application

  • Completed application form: Available on embassy website
  • Original passport: Valid for at least 6 months
  • Passport photos: 2 recent color photos (4x3cm, white background)
  • UK BRP card: Proof of UK residency status
  • Travel itinerary: Flight bookings showing return/onward travel
  • Accommodation proof: Hotel bookings or invitation letter with host details
  • Financial proof: Bank statements (last 3 months) showing minimum $1,000 balance
  • Travel insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage mandatory
  • Employment letter: From UK employer confirming employment status

Entry Process & Border Control

Step-by-step guide through Morocco immigration

At Morocco Border Control

1

Document Preparation

Have passport, printed eVisa/visa, and supporting documents ready. Complete health declaration form if required.

2

Immigration Queue

Join "Non-Moroccan" queue at passport control. Present passport and visa to immigration officer.

3

Document Verification

Officer examines visa, passport validity, and may ask about purpose of visit, accommodation, and departure plans.

4

Entry Stamp

Passport stamped with entry date and permitted stay duration. Ensure you receive entry stamp - essential for departure.

Entry Stamp Essential

Always ensure your passport is stamped on entry. Some travelers have had difficulties leaving Morocco because their passport lacked an entry stamp. Without proper stamps, you may face complications during departure.

Major Entry Points

  • Casablanca Mohammed V Airport: Main international gateway, busiest airport
  • Marrakech Menara Airport: Popular tourist entry point
  • Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport: Northern Morocco, close to Spain
  • Rabat-Salé Airport: Capital city airport
  • Fez Saïs Airport: Eastern Morocco, cultural destinations
  • Land borders: Ceuta/Melilla (Spanish enclaves), Algeria border
  • Sea ports: Tangier, Casablanca for ferry arrivals from Spain

Common Entry Issues

  • Visa validity questions: Ensure visa dates cover your entire intended stay
  • Passport condition: Damaged passports may be refused - ensure good condition
  • Supporting documents: Have accommodation bookings and return tickets readily available
  • Financial verification: Carry bank statements or sufficient cash if questioned
  • Health requirements: Complete mandatory health forms where required

Stay Duration & Activity Restrictions

What you can do and duration limits in Morocco

Duration of Stay

  • eVisa holders: Up to 30 days single entry (can be extended to 180 days)
  • Traditional visa holders: As specified on visa (typically 30-90 days)
  • Extensions: Possible at police stations for tourists, requires valid reason
  • Multiple entry: Available for frequent travelers and business visitors
  • Overstay penalties: Fines, deportation, and future entry bans

Permitted Activities

Allowed Activities

Tourism, business meetings, conferences, visiting friends/family, cultural activities, photography, attending festivals/events, short-term courses, remote work for non-Moroccan employers

Prohibited Activities

Not Permitted

Employment by Moroccan companies, receiving income from Moroccan sources, establishing businesses, formal studying (long-term), political activities, journalism without permits, overstaying visa duration

Extension Process

  • Where to apply: Local police stations in major cities
  • Required documents: Passport, current visa, accommodation proof, financial statements
  • Processing time: 2-7 days depending on location
  • Fees: Vary by extension duration and type
  • Approval conditions: Valid reason, sufficient funds, clean record

Important Legal Considerations

  • Registration: Not required for short-term tourists
  • Currency restrictions: Can take up to 2,000 MAD in/out of Morocco
  • Customs declarations: Required for valuable items and large amounts of currency
  • Photography restrictions: Avoid military installations, government buildings
  • Cultural sensitivity: Respect Islamic customs, especially during Ramadan

Practical Travel Information

Essential details for your Morocco journey in 2025

Money & Costs

  • Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) - not freely convertible outside Morocco
  • Budget travel: $30-50 per day (hostels, street food, public transport)
  • Mid-range travel: $50-100 per day (private rooms, restaurant meals, some tours)
  • Luxury travel: $150+ per day (luxury riads, fine dining, private guides)
  • Accommodation: Hostels $10-20/night, riads $40-100/night, luxury $200+/night
  • Meals: Street food $1-3, local restaurants $5-10, tourist restaurants $15-25
  • ATMs: Widely available in cities, limited in rural areas
  • Card acceptance: Major hotels/restaurants accept cards, cash needed elsewhere

Transportation

  • Flights to Morocco: From UK: £150-500 return depending on season/airline
  • Trains: Excellent network connecting major cities (ONCF)
  • High-speed rail: Casablanca to Tangier in under 3 hours
  • Intercity buses: CTM and Supratours most reliable ($5-25 between cities)
  • Local buses: Cheap but basic ($0.50-2 per journey)
  • Taxis: Petit taxis (city), grand taxis (intercity), negotiate fares
  • Car rental: $25-50/day, international driving permit required
  • Domestic flights: Royal Air Maroc for longer distances

Accommodation Options

  • Riads: Traditional courtyard houses in medinas ($40-500/night)
  • International hotels: Global chains in new cities ($60-300/night)
  • Kasbahs: Fortified residences in Atlas Mountains and south
  • Desert camps: Luxury and standard Sahara experiences ($80-400/night)
  • Hostels: Budget options in major cities ($10-25/night)
  • Guesthouses: Family-run budget accommodation ($20-60/night)
  • Surf camps: Atlantic coast, especially Taghazout ($30-80/night)

Communication & Internet

  • Languages: Arabic (official), Berber (official), French (widely spoken)
  • English: Spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
  • Mobile networks: Maroc Telecom, Orange Morocco, Inwi
  • SIM cards: Available at airports and city centers ($5-15)
  • Data plans: Good 4G coverage in cities, limited in mountains
  • Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants
  • Internet speed: Generally good in urban areas

Climate & Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March-May): Ideal weather, mild temperatures, blooming landscapes
  • Autumn (September-November): Excellent weather, fewer crowds than spring
  • Winter (December-February): Mild coastal areas, cold mountains, good for desert
  • Summer (June-August): Very hot inland (40°C+), comfortable on coast
  • Ramadan considerations: Restaurants closed during day, cultural sensitivity required
  • Sahara Desert: Best October-April, very hot in summer
  • Atlas Mountains: Snow possible December-March at altitude

Health & Safety

  • Crime rate: Generally safe, standard precautions for tourist areas
  • Common scams: Fake guides, overcharging in souks, carpet sellers
  • Healthcare: Good private healthcare in cities, travel insurance essential
  • Water quality: Bottled water recommended, avoid tap water
  • Food safety: Be cautious with street food, choose busy stalls
  • Emergency numbers: Police 19, Fire 15, Medical 15
  • Women travelers: Conservative dress recommended, especially outside tourist areas

Cultural Considerations

  • Religion: Islam (99%), respect prayer times and religious customs
  • Dress code: Conservative clothing, cover shoulders/knees, especially for religious sites
  • Alcohol: Available in tourist areas and licensed establishments
  • Friday prayers: Many businesses close for noon prayers
  • Ramadan: Eating/drinking publicly during daylight hours is insensitive
  • Bargaining: Expected in souks and markets, start at 30-50% of asking price
  • Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants, small amounts for guides and services
  • Photography: Ask permission before photographing people

Official Sources & Verification

Authoritative information sources for current requirements

Primary Moroccan Government Sources

Moroccan Embassy in UK

  • Moroccan Embassy London: 49 Queen's Gate Gardens, South Kensington, London SW7 5NE
  • Embassy Phone: +44 (0)20 7581 5001
  • Consular Section: +44 (0)20 7581 8001
  • Embassy Email: info@moroccanembassy.org.uk
  • Visa Section Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00-12:00 (appointment required)

UK Government Sources

Additional Verification Sources

Professional Visa Services

Direct Embassy Consultation Essential

Given the complexity of Morocco's nationality-based visa policy and potential changes, it's strongly recommended to contact the Moroccan Embassy London directly for confirmation of current requirements for your specific passport nationality and UK residence status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common queries about Morocco travel with UK BRP

Yes, most UK BRP holders need a visa for Morocco. Unlike UK citizens who get 90-day visa-free access, your UK residence status does not automatically grant you visa-free entry. Your passport nationality determines visa requirements. Only citizens of certain countries (mostly EU, US, Canada, Australia) can enter visa-free.

It depends on your passport nationality. Morocco's eVisa system, launched in 2022, is available to certain nationalities. Some nationalities become eligible for eVisa if they hold residence permits from UK, EU, US, or Canada. Check in.diplomatie.ma or contact the Moroccan Embassy to verify your eligibility.

Morocco eVisa: 3-7 working days. Traditional embassy visa: 5-15 working days. Apply well in advance during peak seasons (March-May, September-November). Processing times can vary based on nationality and application completeness. UK residents may experience slightly faster processing than applications from other countries.

Essential documents: valid passport (6+ months), UK BRP card, completed application form, passport photos, travel itinerary, accommodation proof, bank statements (showing minimum $1,000), travel insurance, and employment letter from UK employer. Original passport required for embassy applications.

Morocco is generally safe for tourists with good security infrastructure in major tourist areas. Exercise standard travel precautions: be cautious with valuables, avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of common tourist scams in markets. The biggest risks are petty theft and tourist scams, not violent crime.

Yes, visa extensions are possible at local police stations in major cities. You'll need your passport, current visa, accommodation proof, and financial statements. Extensions typically granted for valid reasons (tourism, family visits). Processing takes 2-7 days with fees varying by duration.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer ideal weather with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is very hot inland but comfortable on the coast. Winter (December-February) is good for the desert and coastal areas but cold in the Atlas Mountains.

Budget travelers: $30-50/day (hostels, street food, public transport). Mid-range: $50-100/day (private rooms, restaurant meals, some tours). Luxury: $150+/day (luxury riads, fine dining, private guides). This excludes international flights, which typically cost £150-500 return from the UK.

⚠️ Critical Information Disclaimer

Important: This website provides general information only and should not be relied upon as official immigration advice. Morocco's visa policy is complex and based primarily on passport nationality, not UK residence status. Visa requirements, entry procedures, and immigration rules can change frequently without notice.

Official Verification Essential: Always verify current requirements with the Moroccan Embassy London, Morocco's official eVisa website (in.diplomatie.ma), and UK Foreign Office travel advice before booking travel or making any travel-related decisions. Your passport nationality determines your visa requirements, not your UK BRP status.

Nationality-Specific Requirements: This guide provides general information, but visa requirements vary significantly by passport nationality. Citizens of EU countries, USA, Canada, and Australia typically get visa-free access, while most other nationalities require visas regardless of UK residence status.

eVisa Eligibility: Morocco's eVisa system eligibility depends on passport nationality and may include special provisions for UK residents. Check official sources for your specific nationality's requirements and UK residence benefits.

Legal Responsibility: This site accepts no responsibility for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided, including denied entry, visa refusal, overstay penalties, or travel disruptions related to documentation requirements.

Last Updated: Information on this page was compiled in May 2025 based on current Morocco visa policies. For the most current requirements and specific nationality conditions, always consult the official sources listed above.

Ready to Explore Morocco?

Remember to check your specific visa requirements with the Moroccan Embassy London before booking travel. Most UK BRP holders need visas regardless of residence status.

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