Work Permits for Expats in Morocco
Morocco is a diverse and culturally rich country that is home to many industries, including tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. To work legally in Morocco, expats must obtain a work permit. In this article, we will provide information on the types of work permits available, the application process, and the required documents.
Do Expats Need a Work Permit to Work Legally in Morocco?
Yes, expats need a work permit to work legally in Morocco. The work permit is a legal requirement for all foreign nationals who wish to work in the country.
The employer is responsible for applying for the work permit on behalf of the expat employee. The employer must provide evidence of the expat’s qualifications and experience, as well as evidence that no qualified Moroccan national is available to fill the position.
Types of Work Permits for Expats in Morocco
There are several types of work permits available for expats in Morocco. The type of work permit required will depend on the nature of the work to be performed. The most common types of work permits for expats in Morocco are:
- Short-Term Work Permit: This type of work permit is for expats who will be working in Morocco for a limited period of time, such as for a specific project or assignment. The permit is valid for up to 90 days and is non-renewable.
- Long-Term Work Permit: This type of work permit is for expats who will be working in Morocco for an extended period of time. The permit is valid for up to one year and is renewable.
- Seasonal Work Permit: This type of work permit is for expats who will be working in Morocco during the agricultural season.
- Exceptional Work Permit: This type of work permit is for expats who are highly skilled and will be working in a strategic sector of the Moroccan economy.
Procedure to Apply for a Work Permit in Morocco
The procedure to apply for a work permit in Morocco involves several steps, including:
- The employer must submit an application for a work permit on behalf of the expat employee to the Ministry of Labor.
- The Ministry of Labor will review the application and make a decision within 30 days.
- If the application is approved, the employer must obtain the work permit from the Ministry of Labor.
The entire process can take up to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application.
Documents Required to Apply for a Work Permit in Morocco
The documents required to apply for a work permit in Morocco are:
- Completed application form
- Copy of the expat’s passport
- Proof of the employer’s registration with the Social Security Administration
- Proof of the employer’s registration with the Business Register
- Proof of the expat’s qualifications and experience
- Job description
- Evidence that no qualified Moroccan national is available to fill the position
All documents must be in Arabic or French. Documents in other languages must be officially translated.
Costs of Applying for a Work Permit in Morocco
The cost of applying for a work permit in Morocco depends on the type of permit and the duration of the permit. The fees can range from 500 Moroccan Dirhams (approximately $55 USD) for a short-term work permit to 1,000 Moroccan Dirhams (approximately $110 USD) for a long-term work permit.
Where to Find Reliable Information on Working Legally in Morocco
Expats can find reliable information on working legally in Morocco from the following sources:
- Ministry of Labor: http://www.emploi.gov.ma/
- Embassy of Morocco in the United States: https://www.embassyofmorocco.us/
- Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency: https://www.invest.gov.ma/