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Morocco

Review the latest State Department Travel Advisory about Morocco. You can plan for safe travel by following the entry and exit requirements and reviewing local laws and other travel guidance from the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Travel advisory levels

Learn more about Travel Advisory levels

  1. Exercise normal precautions
  2. Exercise increased caution
  3. Reconsider travel
  4. Do not travel

Travel advisory - Kingdom of Morocco

Level 2 - Exercise increased caution

Date issued: April 21, 2025 -
  • Terrorism (T)

Exercise increased caution

in Morocco due to terrorism.

Advisory summary

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Morocco. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning.  They target tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Review the Travel Guidances for additional information on travel to Morocco.

If you decide to travel to Morocco:

Scroll to review full advisory
Travel advisory levels

Learn more about Travel Advisory levels

  1. Exercise normal precautions
  2. Exercise increased caution
  3. Reconsider travel
  4. Do not travel

About Morocco

Morocco is located in Africa, in the Northern and Western Hemisphere. It has maritime borders with the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It also shares land borders with Algeria and Mauritania. 

It is slightly larger than California. There is one time zone, Western European Summer Time (WEST). It observes permanent daylight saving time, but during Ramadan, the clocks are turned back one hour.

Travel requirements

Tourist visa requirements

  • No visa is required for visits of 90 days or less.

Vaccinations

  • No vaccinations are required.

Valid passport requirements

  • Your passport must be valid at the time of entry.
  • Your passport must have at least six months’ validity at time of entry. 
  • Your passport must have 1 blank page available per stamp.

Currency on entry and exit

Moroccan currency is a closed currency, which means you will need to exchange foreign currency into Moroccan dirhams (MAD) after you arrive, and again before departing Morocco.

  • Entry maximum: Entry with the foreign currency equivalent of 15,000 MAD (approximately $1,500 USD) must be declared on arrival. Cash amounts exceeding 50,000 MAD must be formally documented to be legally exported later.
  • Exit maximum: Export of Moroccan currency (dirhams) is prohibited. Moroccan currency should be exchanged prior to departing the country at a currency exchange or bank. Currency exchanges are available at most major airports.

Tips from the U.S. embassy

  • If you remain in Morocco beyond 90 days without requesting an extension of stay, you will need to appear before a judge prior to departing Morocco and may need to pay a fine. 

  • You should not photograph palaces, diplomatic missions, government buildings, or other sensitive facilities. When in doubt, ask permission from the appropriate Moroccan authorities.

  • Morocco prohibits sending passports or medications by mail. Passports and medications sent to or through Morocco via FedEx, DHL, or other courier will be confiscated by Moroccan authorities. 

Help for U.S. citizens

U.S. Embassy Rabat

KM 5.7, Avenue Mohammed VI
Souissi, Rabat 10170, Morocco

The U.S. Embassy Rabat does not offer consular services and does not have entry facilities for public visitors. All U.S. citizens seeking assistance must contact or visit the Consulate in Casablanca.

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Travel guidance for Morocco

Explore our travel guidance topics to prepare for your trip abroad.

Date issued: August 13, 2026

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Entry, exit, and visa requirements

Helpful resources  


Visa overstays

If you remain in Morocco beyond 90 days without requesting an extension of stay, you will need to appear before a judge prior to departing Morocco. 

Please contact the immigration office at your local Moroccan police station for details. Resolution may include the payment of a fine.


Lost or stolen passports and exiting

  • If your passport is lost or stolen, you may apply for a temporary emergency passport at the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca. Appointments are required and may be scheduled by the ACS Navigator - U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Morocco. Be aware, however, that Moroccan authorities will require a police report to explain why you are departing on a passport different than that used to enter the country. The police report should be from the area where the loss or theft occurred. 
  • Police may require evidence of U.S. citizenship prior to issuing the report of loss. 
  • Some countries that serve as common layover points for flights from Morocco do not accept emergency passports for entry or transit, so travelers should plan accordingly. 

Restricted items

Moroccan customs strictly regulates these items: 

  • Firearms and ammunition
  • Drones (unmanned aerial vehicles)
  • Religious materials
  • Antiquities 
  • Business equipment
  • Large amounts of currency
  • High value jewelry, including watches  

Make sure you have obtained all necessary permissions and documentation before attempting to bring any regulated items into Morocco.  

Contact the Embassy of Morocco in Washington, DC, or the Moroccan Consulate General in New York for specific information concerning customs requirements. Please review our information on Customs and Import Restrictions.


Firearms restrictions

Bringing firearms into Morocco without proper authorization is illegal. It may result in serious consequences, including criminal investigation, confiscation of your passport, a ban from leaving the country, or incarceration. 


Traveling with children

  • Children with U.S. passports who are born to a Moroccan parent may have trouble leaving Morocco without the Moroccan parent’s permission.  This is even if the parents are divorced and the departing parent has legal custody. 
  • If you have concerns that your child may be abducted abroad or prevented from departing by the other parent or guardian, review our information on how to prevent an international parental child abduction. You can also review our information on Parental Child Abduction in Morocco. 
  • Review our information on Traveling with Minors

HIV and AIDS restrictions

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV and AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Morocco. 


Currency

  • The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is the official currency of Morocco. 
  • Many large establishments accept credit cards but may require a large additional fee. Many small establishments accept only cash. 
  • Morocco has ATMs that accept U.S.-issued bankcards. 
  • Save your receipt when you exchange U.S. dollars for Moroccan currency. Moroccan currency is a closed currency, therefore, you will need to change any leftover Moroccan money to U.S. dollars before you leave, and receipts will be required to do so.

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

  • Dial 190 for police (19 from a landline)
  • Dial 150 for ambulance (15 from a landline)
  • Dial 177 for Gendarmerie Royale (military police)

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

  • Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
  • Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
  • Places of worship
  • Schools 
  • Parks
  • Shopping malls and markets
  • Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)
Terrorist groups

Terrorist groups continue to plot potential attacks in the region, including Morocco. Morocco has strong security services. They continue to arrest people allegedly linked to terrorist groups who want to attack U.S., foreign, or Moroccan government targets.

  • Lone wolf attacks can occur without warning and are difficult to detect and disrupt. 
  • Stay aware of your surroundings in remote areas. 
  • If you camp, use guarded campgrounds. Do not camp in isolated areas. 

 


Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events. 

  • Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
  • Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
  • During periods of heightened regional tension, large demonstrations may take place in major cities.
  • By law, all demonstrations require a government permit, but spontaneous unauthorized demonstrations can occur and could turn violent. 
  • Unions or other groups may organize strikes to protest an emerging issue or government policy.

Crime

Petty crime in Morocco is a serious concern, particularly in major cities and tourist areas. Use common sense and the same personal security measures you would normally use in a large U.S. city or tourist destination.

Petty crime and theft

Petty crime is common in Morocco, especially in tourist areas and major cities. Stay aware of your surroundings and protect your belongings.

  • Pickpocketing occurs frequently in crowded tourist areas, markets (souks), and on public transportation. Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings in busy locations.
  • Aggressive panhandling is common in tourist areas. Politely but firmly decline and continue moving.
  • Bag snatching and theft from vehicles can occur. Do not leave valuables visible in parked cars. Carry bags securely across your body rather than on your shoulder.
  • Trains in Morocco are generally safe, but theft sometimes occurs.
Violent crime

Violent crime against tourists is less common than petty theft, but it does occur. Muggings and assaults can happen, particularly in remote areas or at night. Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods or poorly lit areas.

High-risk areas and situations

  • Avoid isolated beaches, parks, and poorly lit streets, especially after dark.
  • Exercise caution in crowded markets and tourist sites where pickpockets operate.
  • Be wary of overly friendly strangers who may be setting up scams or distractions for theft.
  • Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash.
  • Use registered taxis or ride-sharing services rather than unmarked vehicles.
Targeting of specific groups
  • Women travelers may experience verbal harassment, unwanted attention, or inappropriate touching, particularly in crowded areas. Consider traveling in groups when possible.
  • Lesbian and gay travelers should exercise caution, as same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Morocco. Public displays of affection may attract negative attention or legal consequences.
  • Elderly travelers and persons with disabilities may be targeted for scams or theft due to perceived vulnerability. Travel with companions when possible and remain alert in tourist areas.
Harassment and discrimination
  • Some travelers experience harassment or discrimination based on perceived race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. 
  • Travelers who appear to be of sub-Saharan African descent have reported discrimination or harassment. 
  • Gay and lesbian travelers face legal and social challenges. Homosexuality is illegal under Moroccan law.
Police responsiveness

Police responsiveness to reports of crime by U.S. citizens can be inconsistent. Language barriers may complicate reporting, and follow-up on cases may be limited. 

  • Always get a police report for insurance purposes. 
  • Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. 
  • Police may respond faster to crimes against tourists in popular tourist areas. But don't expect every crime to be solved.
Safety tips
  • 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. Do not leave bags slung over the backs of chairs, on hotel or store counters, on top of your suitcase or larger travel bag, or out of your physical control in hotel lobbies, train stations, restaurants, and other public locations.
  • Avoid traveling alone, especially at night and when moving around in unfamiliar areas.
  • Avoid soccer stadiums and nearby areas on days of scheduled matches as large groups of team supporters have been known to become unruly and harass and assault bystanders. Supporters will often march or caravan toward the stadium and be unruly on the way. These crowds are normally monitored by police.
  • Be mindful of traffic and remain in more heavily populated areas, especially while jogging. It is always best to have a jogging companion, dress modestly, and avoid isolated areas or jogging at night.
  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash and stay alert when using ATMs. In the event you become a victim of crime or an attempted crime, please report the incident to the local police and the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca as soon as possible.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.   

Financial scams and Internet romance scams are common in Morocco. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. 

Common scams include: 

  • People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
  • People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
  • Romance and online dating 
  • Money transfers 
  • Grandparent and relative targeting 
  • Free trip or luggage 
  • Lotteries 
  • Inheritance notices 
  • Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Morocco: 

  • Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
  • Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.  
  • Meet in a popular public place. 
  • Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
  • Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
  • Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
  • Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
  • Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
  • Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
  • Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 19 from a landline or 190 from a cell phone.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.  

The U.S. embassy or consulate can: 

  • Replace a stolen or lost passport.
  • Help you find medical care.  
  • Assist you in how to report a crime to the police. 
  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
  • Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.  
  • Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. 
  • Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need. 
  • Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence 

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault and domestic violence are encouraged to contact local law enforcement and the U.S. consulate for assistance.

Victims should contact local police immediately to report the crime and preserve evidence. Local law enforcement has jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute these offenses, and timely reporting is critical for:

  • Collecting forensic evidence and medical documentation
  • Initiating criminal investigations
  • Obtaining protective orders or restraining orders under local law
  • Accessing local victim support services and resources

After reporting to local authorities, contact the U.S. consulate for additional support. We can:

  • Provide a list of local medical facilities and English-speaking doctors.
  • Explain the local criminal justice process.
  • Offer contact information for local attorneys.
  • Assist in contacting family or friends.
  • Replace lost or stolen travel documents.
  • Provide information about victim resources.

For immediate danger, call local police emergency line first, then contact the U.S. consulate during business hours or the after-hours duty officer for emergencies. 


Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

  • Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States. 
  • Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.  
  • Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks. 
  • Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
  • Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones and satellite phones 

  • Drones are prohibited in Morocco. Do not import, possess, or use drones without prior authorization from the local government. Moroccan authorities will confiscate them. 
  • Satellite phones are strictly regulated in Morocco. You must get prior authorization from the government to import or use satellite phones.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is generally regulated in major tourist areas such as Marrakech, Tangier, Fez, Casablanca, Rabat, Essaouira and Agadir.

  • Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
  • Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. 
  • Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities. 
  • If you get injured, you can usually get medical help in or near major cities. 
  • In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help. 
  • U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 

The tourism industry is not well regulated outside major tourist areas.

  • Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. 
  • Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs. 
  • Staff may not be trained or certified. 
  • If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care. 
  • In rural and remote areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
  • U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
  • Review our information on Travel Insurance

Adventure travel 

  • Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

  • U.S. citizens must follow local laws. 
  • If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.   
  • Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
  • You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
  • Before you start a business or a profession in Morocco seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  
Offensive actions and words 

Moroccan law says that some actions or words that could cause offense to the King, the religion of Islam, government officials or other elements of the Moroccan state may result in legal consequences including imprisonment.   

Financial crime and debt

Crimes of fraud are considered serious in Morocco. Crimes include passing bad checks, non-payment of bills (including hotel bills), or breach of contract. These often result in imprisonment or fines.

  • Bail generally is not available to non-residents of Morocco who are arrested for crimes involving fraud. 
  • Debtors can be held in prison until their debts are paid or until an agreement is reached between the parties.
  • The Moroccan government may seize passports to guarantee that debtors settle their cases.
  • Debtors may be unable to work in Morocco without passports while still being held responsible for their debts.
Photography of sensitive locations 
  • Taking photographs of anything that could be considered of military or security interest may result in problems with Moroccan authorities. 
  • You should not photograph palaces, diplomatic missions, government buildings, or other sensitive facilities. When in doubt, ask permission from the appropriate Moroccan authorities.
Sending passports through the mail 

Morocco prohibits sending passports by mail across international borders. Passports sent to or through Morocco via FedEx, DHL, or other courier will be confiscated by Moroccan authorities.  

  • Confiscated U.S. passports are sent to the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs processes them. 
  • If your passport has been confiscated, you can contact the American Citizens Services section at [email protected] to ask if it has been received.

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. This applies whether you are a U.S. citizen only or a dual U.S.-Moroccan national.

Under international agreements, you may request to have the U.S. embassy or consulate notified of your detention. Consular officers can visit you, provide a list of local attorneys, inform family or friends with your written consent, and monitor your welfare.


Detention conditions

  • Detainees in Morocco often can’t get their prescribed or over-the-counter medications. 
  • Detainees may also miss out on emergency and routine medical care. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations. 

  • They may be illegal according to local laws.  
  • Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.  
  • You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.  

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods: 


Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:  

Proselytizing

Islam is the official religion in Morocco. The constitution provides freedom to practice one’s religion, but proselytizing is prohibited in Morocco.

  • In the past, U.S. citizens have been arrested, detained, or expelled for discussing or trying to engage Moroccans in debate about Christianity. This included long-time Moroccan residents. 
  • In these cases, U.S. citizens were given no more than 48 hours to gather their belongings or settle their affairs before being expelled.

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual, same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Morocco. Penalties include fines and up to three years’ imprisonment. 


Travelers with disabilities or accessibility needs

  • The law in Morocco prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is not consistently enforced. 
  • Building codes require accessibility for all people but the codes do not apply to many older buildings. It is rarely enforced for new buildings.
  • The most common type of accessibility is ease of movement or access.
  • Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.
  • Accessibility is common in the national rail service which has wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms and designated seating. 
  • Cultural norms around disability are less accepting and inclusive of persons with disabilities compared to the United States.
  • Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students


Women travelers  

Women should exercise caution when in public spaces, including nightclubs or other social establishments. 

  • Women walking alone in certain areas of cities and rural areas are particularly vulnerable to assault by men. 
  • Women are advised to travel with a companion or in a group when possible and may consider ignoring any harassment. 
  • U.S. citizen women who are not Moroccan nationals, but who are married to Moroccan citizens, do not need their spouse's permission to leave Morocco.
  • Review our information for Women Travelers
  • Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Health

Health resources


Emergency numbers

  • Dial 150 for emergency medical services or fire.
  • Dial 15 from a landline for medical emergencies or fire. 

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not widely available. 

  • Dial 150 or 15 (from a landline) for Civil Defense ambulances. 
  • Private ambulance services are available and their equipment varies.  
  • Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor. 
  • Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not. 

  • The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
  • U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
  • Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
  • Medical care is not free in Morocco. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
  • Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
  • Credit card payment is not always available.
  • Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
  • Private and public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.  
  • Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
  • We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.


Healthcare facilities 

Health facilities are available in Rabat, Casablanca, and other major cities. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

  • The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
  • Public medical clinics may lack basic resources and supplies.  
  • Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. 
  • Medical staff may speak little or no English. 
  • Generally, public hospitals have minimal overnight staffing available in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child, or consider private clinic options if a private nurse is needed.
  • Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals. 
  • Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

  • Do not ask friends or relatives to send medications through the mail, FedEx, or UPS. Moroccan customs will impound the delivery and won’t release it to the recipient.
  • Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls. 
  • Check with the Agence Marocaine du Médicament et des Produits de Santé (AMMPS) to ensure the medication is legal in Morocco. 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally. 

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States. 

For more information: 


Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Morocco to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART), please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad

  • Surrogacy is illegal in Morocco.
  • Surrogacy agencies and clinics may claim surrogacy is legal in Morocco but there is no legal framework to pursue surrogacy in Morocco. As a result, surrogacy agreements between intending parents and gestational mothers are not enforced by Moroccan courts.
  • If you decide to pursue parenthood in Morocco via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship. 
  • Be aware that people who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.

Water quality and food safety 

  • In many areas, tap water is not safe to drink. 
  • Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact. 
  • Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 
  • You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water. 
  • Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
  • Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
  • Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude 

Some locations in Morocco, such as the Atlas Mountains, are at high altitude. 

  • Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
  • Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad. 

  • Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Morocco.
  • For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page
  • For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow

For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Travel and transportation 

Road conditions and safety

Modern freeways connect the cities of Tangier, Rabat, Fez, Casablanca, and Marrakesh. There are two-lane highways that connect other major cities.

  • Secondary routes in rural areas are often narrow and poorly paved. Roads through the Rif and Atlas Mountains are steep, narrow, windy, and dangerous.
  • Traffic signals do not always work and are sometimes hard to see.
  • During the rainy season from November to March, flash flooding is frequent. Sometimes flooding can be severe, washing away roads and vehicles in rural areas.
  • Exercise extreme caution when driving at night due to poor lighting along roads.

Traffic laws  

Foreign driver’s licenses are valid for use in Morocco for up to one year. After one year, foreign residents must pass the Moroccan driver’s test and obtain a Moroccan driver’s license. The test is in either Arabic or French. Speakers of other languages are allowed to have a sworn translator with them when taking the test.

  • Traffic accidents are dangerous in Morocco. 
  • Pedestrians, scooters, and animal-drawn vehicles are common on all roadways, including the freeways.
  • Moroccan police officers often pull over drivers for inspection within the city and on highways.
Dangerous driving conditions

Driving practices are very poor. They result in serious injuries to and fatalities of U.S. citizens. Accidents are especially common during:

  • The Islamic holy month of Ramadan at dusk when adherence to traffic regulations is lax.
  • July to September when Moroccans living abroad return from Europe by car in large numbers.
If you are involved in an accident
  • All parties are required to remain at the scene.
  • Dial 190 (19 from landline) for police.
  • Do not move your vehicle until the insurance investigator or police have arrived and documented all necessary information.
Traffic fines

If you are stopped for a speeding violation, you have the right to request video footage documenting the infraction. Once the speeding violation is confirmed, you have three options:

  • Pay the fine on the spot and get a receipt of payment.
  • Pay at the local city’s treasury (La Perception). The police or gendarme officer will give you a ticket indicating the amount of the fine. They keep your driver’s license until you pay the fine.
  • If you want to contest a violation, you may file a complaint at court. Moroccan authorities may keep your driver’s license and vehicle registration while this long process takes place.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis in Morocco are generally crime-free during the day. Use “petit” taxis which vary by color in the major cities

  • Taxis in Casablanca are red. Taxis in Rabat are blue, and taxis in Marrakech are tan.
  • Travelers should always ask the driver to turn on the meter.
  • Taxi drivers are not supposed to but will try to get you to share a ride with other passengers.
  • Rideshare drivers and passengers have reported harassment and physical violence by taxi drivers. 
  • Morocco is drafting legislation to legalize ride shares, which is scheduled to be enacted before 2030 World Cup. 
  • Travelers should exercise caution if traveling via rideshare apps, especially around hotels, airports, convention centers, and other locations frequented by taxi drivers.

Public and commercial transportation 


Aviation safety oversight 

  • The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Morocco’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Morocco should check the following:  

Weather and natural disasters

Morocco’s weather changes depending on the region. 

  • Coast – Warm all year, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. 
  • Inland plains – Very hot in summer and very cold in the winter. 
  • Mountains – Cooler with heavy snow in the winter. 
  • Desert – Hot and dry, with big temperature changes day and night. 

The most likely natural disasters to occur in Morocco are:

  • Earthquakes
  • Floods in rainy season, from October to March.
  • Droughts occur sometimes and are worse in the summer. 
  • Heatwaves are common in the summer.

U.S citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.


Residing in Morocco

If you plan to reside in Morocco, you must obtain a residence permit (La carte d’immatriculation). You must submit your application in person 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.

  • Morocco requires residence permit applicants submit a criminal history record check. This record check can only be obtained in the United States. 
  • The U.S. Consulate in Casablanca and Embassy in Rabat are unable to take fingerprints to send for FBI record requests. 
  • You must visit your local police station for specific information, if you are seeking a residence permit.

Residency renewal applications

You must submit the following documents for a residence permit renewal application:

  • Birth Certificate
  • Copy of the current passport
  • Copy of the current Moroccan residence card
  • Medical certificate from a doctor stating that the requester is free from any contagious disease
  • Court record (casier judiciaire) obtained from the Ministry of Justice in Rabat
  • 100 MAD (dirham) stamp

If you plan to live in Morocco or relocate to the United States, you may be asked to provide a notarized change of residence form. This form is available at the U.S. consulate by appointment.


Dual citizens

The Government of Morocco considers all persons born to Moroccan fathers to be Moroccan citizens. Dual U.S.-Moroccan citizens may be punished by Moroccan authorities when they return to the country even for actions or statements made outside of Morocco. 

Recently, Morocco has begun allowing Moroccan mothers of children born outside Morocco to petition for their children’s citizenship. 

For further information on that process, please contact the Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C., or the Moroccan Consulate General in New York.

Embassies and consulates

U.S. Embassy Rabat

KM 5.7, Avenue Mohammed VI
Souissi, Rabat 10170, Morocco

Main telephone:

+212-537-63-72-00

Emergency after-hours:

+212-661-13-19-39

The U.S. Embassy Rabat does not offer consular services and does not have entry facilities for public visitors. All U.S. citizens seeking assistance must contact or visit the Consulate in Casablanca.


U.S. Consulate General Casablanca

U.S. Consulate General Casablanca contact information:
Rue des Liserons, Pole Urbain
Casablanca Finance City
Casablanca, Morocco 20036

Main telephone:

+212-537-63-72-00

Emergency after-hours:

+212-537-63-72-00 (from outside Morocco)

The normal work week in Morocco is Monday through Friday.