Expats who are full-time residents are taxed on worldwide income rated on a progressive scale based on income level. Income under $2795 is not taxed. One is considered a full-time resident if their permanent home is in Morocco, they stay in Morocco for at least 183 days within the period of one-year, or if Morocco is their center of economic interest (i.e. own a business). However, expats having secondary residence in Morocco (not living here full-time) are only taxed on Moroccan-sourced income. All income is taxable including salaries and wages, annuities and pensions, investment and property income. Taxes must be filed yearly by separate individuals (there is no joint filing of married couples) by March 31. As with many other countries, the tax code allows for several allowances and deductions, and it is best for expats to consult a certified tax attorney specializing in expatriate tax issues.

Homeowners in Morocco are also subject to Property Taxes assessed by local authorities. There are differences between rental properties and primary residence taxes, and both rates are determined by the assessed rental value. The general rate is 10% for a non-primary residence and 25% on a primary residence. Primary and secondary occupation rates are based on a progressive scale. Any new buildings are exempt from property tax for the first 5 years after the completion of the building.

For pensioners, the tax on pensions received while in Morocco is significantly reduced, making it an attractive place to retire. Otherwise, there are not any special programs or exemptions for expats other than an exemption on travel to one’s home country every other year.

Other taxes that are important for expats to pay attention to where applicable are Value Added Tax (VAT), Customs Duties and Import Tax. Additionally, Morocco is engaged in several double taxation treaties with other countries. These countries include Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Tunisia, the United Kingdom and the United States. Moroccan residents are taxed on worldwide income and a foreign tax credit is provided in the system.

For more information about taxation in Morocco, visit the Ministry of Economy and Finance website:

www.finances.gov.ma/portal/page?_pageid=93,17854169&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL

The website is available in Arabic, French and English, although forms are only available in French. Information specifically for expats is not available on the website.