Many people dream of moving to Morocco, whether they are young professionals looking for professional opportunities, or retired people looking for a better quality of life.
But an expatriation to Morocco requires preparation, and it is better to do it several months in advance.
Good reasons for moving to Morocco
Affordable cost of living in Morocco, relaxed lifestyle and a high quality of life
There are many reasons to move to Morocco, as the country’s assets are numerous. The first thing that attracts potential expats is often the overall quality of life offered by the kingdom of Morocco.
While salaries may seem lower than in Europe, the cost of living in Morocco is also much lower and allows for comfortable living conditions, especially in terms of housing.
In addition to a very pleasant weather with more than 8 months of sunshine per year, Morocco also attracts future expats by:
- Its gastronomy
- Its beaches
- Its sublime landscapes
- Its cultural offer
- The hospitality of its inhabitants.
A welcoming destination for Europeans
Morocco is also a destination appreciated for its proximity to Europe. The numerous flights provided all year round between the two continents allow people to live only a few hours away from their relatives in Europe.
Among expats in Morocco, the French community is the most represented. It is therefore easy to establish relationships or to send children to school.
The French language is commonly spoken in large cities such as Casablanca, and even if it is important to make the effort to learn a few words of Arabic, this helps moving to Morocco without the stress of the language barrier.
Steps to follow for a successful expat life in Morocco
Which residence permit is required to live in Morocco?
Most foreign citizens only need a valid passport to enter Morocco, but in order to move there, you must:
- Register
- Obtain a residence permit from the local police headquarters or the gendarmerie brigade of your place of residence within 15 days of your arrival.
This residence permit is valid for one year and is renewable. It is valid for 10 years after three years of residence. This document is mandatory for certain administrative procedures.
Children under 16 years of age are not required to register.
Other important steps to take when moving to Morocco
Among other essential steps to take in order to succeed as an expat in Morocco include the following:
- Apply for an international driver’s license because most foreign licenses are not recognized in Morocco
- Notify the tax authorities of your move: most expats in Morocco become Moroccan tax residents
- Finding a place to live: it is generally simple, fast and more affordable than in Europe, but prices vary depending on the type of property and the region.
Do not forget to inform all the relevant authorities of your expatriation to Morocco:
- Health insurance
- Mutual insurance
- Pension funds
- Etc.
Open a bank account in Morocco to receive your salary and avoid conversion fees. Some international banks have branches in Morocco, so this process is often simplified.
Working in Morocco as an expat
Legal requirements to work in Morocco
Moving to Morocco to work is subject to obtaining an authorization:
- Work contract approved by the Ministry of Employment
- Authorization to practice for the liberal professions
- Registration in the commercial directory for entrepreneurs.
For employees, some of the steps are usually taken by the employer.
Knowing the job market
Before you consider living in Morocco, you should be aware of the local job market. Please note: local workers are always favored over an expat in Morocco to hold a job.
This is why most expats usually move to Morocco at the request of a company, or for entrepreneurial reasons.
However, there are many opportunities, especially in the big cities and for young people and those with skills that are uncommon in Morocco.
Management positions are the preferred choice and certain sectors are recruiting, such as:
- Engineering sectors
- Telecommunications sectors
- New technologies.
Healthcare system in Morocco
Are expats in Morocco entitled to social security coverage?
There is a local public health insurance system that all expats in Morocco must join, with the exception of seconded workers.
This system covers only a part of the health expenses and is only available in the public sector, which suffers from some deficiencies.
This is why most people who choose to move to Morocco seek treatment in the private sector, where the quality of care is excellent, but more expensive.
Taking out international insurance to be well protected
If you are moving to Morocco, it is therefore recommended to take out international health insurance policy that covers:
- Hospitalization costs
- Current health expenses in the private sector
- Care received outside the country, particularly during stays in your home country
- Repatriation.
To make the right choice, the easiest way is to use an online comparison tool, which will allow you to obtain detailed quotes and offers quickly and free of charge.
