Moroccan passports are essential documents for international travel, serving as proof of Moroccan citizenship and facilitating assistance from Moroccan consular officials abroad. Fortunately, Moroccan citizens can apply for a passport anytime, anywhere, thanks to a web portal that outlines issuance requirements and guides applicants through the process step by step.
To ensure a smooth visit, it's crucial to be prepared with all the necessary documents. Please read the instructions thoroughly before scheduling your appointment. It is highly recommended that you apply to renew your Moroccan passport in France at least (3) three months before its expiration date.
This NEW Passport Renewal Policy Changes EVERYTHING
General Information About Morocco
The Kingdom of Morocco is a constitutional monarchy, with the King as the chief of state, and the prime minister as the head of government. The capital is Rabat and its largest commercial center is Casablanca. Morocco has 38 million people, mostly Arab-Berbers and Sunni Muslims. The official languages are Arabic and Berber, with French often used in business, government and diplomacy.
Morocco is mountainous, with the Rif mountains along the northern coast and the Atlas Mountains in the center. Morocco’s fertile lowlands support agriculture, with major crops including barley, wheat, and sugar beets. Other key sectors of the economy include tourism, aerospace, automotive, phosphates, textiles, apparel and subcomponents.
The Kingdom of Morocco and the United States of America are bound by a special alliance dating back to 1777 when Morocco became the first country to formally recognize the newly independent United States. In 1786, Morocco and the United States signed a Treaty of friendship that is still in force making it the longest-standing unbroken treaty in US history. This treaty formalized US-Moroccan relations and was signed by the Sultan of Morocco, Mohammed III, as well as John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.
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Passport Renewal Process in the USA
Please apply in advance (up to six months prior to your current passport expiration date). citizen services are by appointment only.
Required Documents
- Completed Application Form: Fill out the DS-11. Use the online passport wizard to answer all questions accurately as mistakes may result in a delay. Print the completed form single-sided and bring it to your appointment.
- Passport Photo: One passport photo sized 5 cm x 5 cm, taken within the last six months, full face, front view with a plain white background. Eyeglasses are not allowed in passport photos.
- Old Passport: Yes, it is mandatory to present your old Moroccan passport to be able to renew it. When you collect your new passport, the old one will be taken and destroyed (unless it still contains valid visas).
Specific Scenarios
- Passport for Children Under 16: Fill out the DS-11. Use the online passport wizard to answer all questions accurately as mistakes may result in a delay. One passport photo sized 5 cm x 5 cm, taken within the last six months, full face, front view with a plain white background. Eyeglasses are not allowed in passport photos. The absent parent must also provide a photocopy of the front and back side of the photo I.D. that was used during notarization.
- Citizens Over 16: Fill out the DS-11. Use the online passport wizard to answer all questions accurately as mistakes may result in a delay. One passport photo sized 5 cm x 5 cm, taken within the last six months, full face, front view with a plain white background.
- Name Change/Correction: Fill out the DS-5504. Use the online passport wizard to answer all questions accurately as mistakes may result in a delay. One passport photo sized 5 cm x 5 cm, taken within the last six months, full face, front view with a plain white background. Eyeglasses are not allowed in passport photos.
Important Considerations
- Processing Time: A tourist passport takes about four weeks to process.
- Appointments: citizen services are by appointment only.
- Lost or Stolen Passport: Please obtain a police report for a lost or stolen passport in the area where the loss or theft occurred.
Additional Information for US Citizens in Morocco
Embassy Rabat does not offer consular services and does not have entry facilities for public visitors. Visas are not required for visits lasting less than 90 days. If you remain in Morocco beyond 90 days without having requested an extension of stay, you will need to appear before a judge prior to departing Morocco. Please contact the immigration office at your local police station for details. Consulate General in Casablanca.
Travelers who plan to reside in Morocco must obtain a residence permit (certificat d’immatriculation). Applications should be submitted to the Bureau des Étrangers of the Prefecture de Police or Commissariat Central in major cities, and to the Gendarmerie in remote areas and villages.
Passports and who are born to a Moroccan father may have trouble leaving Morocco without the father's permission, even if the parents are divorced and the mother has legal custody.
Safety and Security Tips
The Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Morocco. citizens abroad are reminded to remain vigilant with regards to their personal security. citizen campers should camp in guarded campgrounds rather than isolated campsites. Do not leave bags unattended. Keep them in sight and avoid placing passports, cash, cell phones, or other valuables in the outer pockets of backpacks or purses, or on tables in public places.
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Criminals use weapons, primarily knives, during some street robberies and burglaries. Joggers should be mindful of traffic and remain in more heavily populated areas. Rideshare drivers and passengers have reported harassment and physical violence by taxi drivers. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and be particularly alert when using ATMs.
Demonstrations occur frequently in Morocco. They typically focus on political or social issues and are rarely confrontational or violent. They may take place in response to political or economic issues.
Internet romance and financial scams are common in Morocco. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks.
Additional Resources
- Emergency Assistance: Consulate Casablanca at (212) 522-64-20-00.
- Legal Advice: Provide a list of local attorneys.
- Medical Information: Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals.
Fees and Payment
Please note that if you are found ineligible to receive a visa, the application fee cannot be refunded. If your visa is approved, we will keep your passport at the consulate while we prepare your immigration packet and print a visa for your passport. We will return your passport to you later via courier services only.
Table: Required Documents for Moroccan Passport Renewal in the USA
| Document Type | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Form | DS-11 | Filled out accurately using the online passport wizard. Printed single-sided. |
| Passport Photo | 5 cm x 5 cm | Taken within the last six months, full face, front view with a plain white background. No eyeglasses. |
| Old Passport | Original Passport | Mandatory for renewal. Will be taken and destroyed upon collection of the new passport (unless it contains valid visas). |
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