{"slug":"morocco","title":"Morocco travel advice","updated_at":"2026-08-19T12:00:36+01:00","reviewed_at":"2026-08-19T11:00:36Z","change_description":"This travel advice has been reviewed for accuracy with updates made throughout, including new information about passports, using dating applications, outdoor activities and adventure tourism, using electronic scooters and bikes, quad biking, hot air balloons and beaches and wildfires; information about rabies and food hygiene and allergies; updated information about taking money into or out of Morocco, and information about illegal drugs and prison sentences (See 'Entry requirements', 'Safety and security' and 'Health' pages).","web_url":"https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco","entry_requirements_html":"<p>This information is for people travelling on a full <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/types-of-british-nationality\">‘British citizen’ passport</a> from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Morocco’s current rules for the most common types of travel.</p>\n\n<p>The authorities in Morocco set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.consulat.ma/en\">Moroccan Consulate General in the UK</a>. </p>\n\n<h2 id=\"passport-validity-requirements\">Passport validity requirements</h2>\n\n<p>To enter Morocco, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the date you arrive.</p>\n\n<p>Make sure <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damaged-and-faulty-passports/damaged-british-passports-accessible#definitions-of-damage-or-fraudulent-tampering\">your passport is not damaged</a>. The Moroccan authorities have denied entry to some travellers with damaged passports. Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/renew-adult-passport/renew\">Renew your passport</a> if you need to.  </p>\n\n<p>You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"lost-or-stolen-passports\">Lost or stolen passports</h2>\n\n<p>If your passport is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for an emergency travel document from the British embassy. You will also need to show a police report to be able to leave the country. The police will issue a written report, this can be a “déclaration de perte” for a lost passport or a “déclaration de vol” for a stolen passport. Stolen or lost passports must be reported in the city where the theft or loss occurred.</p>\n\n<p>Border officials should stamp your passport when you enter Morocco. Some travellers have had difficulties leaving Morocco because their passport did not have an entry stamp.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"sending-passports-by-post\">Sending passports by post</h2>\n\n<p>It is illegal to send passports by post to or through Morocco. The authorities will confiscate British passports sent to or through Morocco by post or courier.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"carrying-unaccompanied-passports\">Carrying unaccompanied passports</h2>\n\n<p>Carrying another person’s passport may attract scrutiny from Police, Immigration, Customs, or Border Officials. Travellers are strongly advised not to carry a passport belonging to an individual who is not accompanying them unless there is a clear and legitimate reason for doing so.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"dual-nationals\">Dual nationals</h2>\n\n<p>When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports\">British passport</a> or <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/right-of-abode/apply-for-a-certificate-of-entitlement\">certificate of entitlement</a>. See <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/dual-citizenship\">Dual citizenship</a>.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"visa-requirements\">Visa requirements  </h2>\n\n<p>You can visit Morocco without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism.</p>\n\n<p>To stay longer than 90 days, you must request an extension at a Moroccan police station.</p>\n\n<p>If you’re going to Morocco for reasons other than tourism, check visa requirements with the <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.consulat.ma/en\">Moroccan Consulate General in the UK</a>.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"arriving-by-private-boat\">Arriving by private boat</h2>\n\n<p>If you arrive by private boat, you must enter at a <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.anp.org.ma/en/\">recognised port of entry</a>. It is illegal to enter through other ports.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"vaccine-requirements\">Vaccine requirements</h2>\n\n<p>To enter Morocco, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a polio vaccine if you’re coming from a polio-affected country.</p>\n\n<p>For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/154/morocco#Vaccine_Recommendations\">TravelHealthPro’s Morocco guide</a>.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"customs-rules\">Customs rules</h2>\n\n<p>There are strict rules about <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.douane.gov.ma/web/guest/particuliers\">goods you can take into or out of Morocco</a>. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"taking-money-into-or-out-of-morocco\">Taking money into or out of Morocco</h3>\n\n<p>The Moroccan dirham is a closed ‘non-convertible’ currency. This means it cannot be easily exchanged outside Morocco for other currencies .</p>\n\n<p>You must declare foreign currency worth 100,000 Moroccan dirham or more (equal to around £8,000) when you enter or leave the country.</p>\n\n<p>Passing fraudulent banknotes carries significant prison sentences. Defacing Moroccan banknotes is also illegal and punishable by imprisonment.</p>\n\n","safety_html":"<h2 id=\"terrorism\">Terrorism</h2>\n\n<p>There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.</p>\n\n<p>UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.counterterrorism.police.uk/runhidetell/\">staying safe</a> and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/guidance/reduce-your-risk-from-terrorism-while-abroad\">how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad</a>.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"terrorism-in-morocco\">Terrorism in Morocco</h3>\n\n<div role=\"note\" aria-label=\"Warning\" class=\"application-notice help-notice\">\n<p>Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco.</p>\n</div>\n\n<p>Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:   </p>\n\n<ul>\n  <li>transport hubs</li>\n  <li>locations popular with tourists and foreigners</li>\n  <li>government buildings</li>\n  <li>crowded places</li>\n  <li>businesses with western interests</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p>Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow advice of local authorities.</p>\n\n<p>There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells.</p>\n\n<p>In some places, including hotels and tourists sites, there may be protective security measures, including security guards.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"political-situation\">Political situation</h2>\n\n<p>Protests and demonstrations could occur across the country, particularly in large cities, often without warning. These events are typically monitored closely by law enforcement. While authorised protests are generally peaceful, unauthorised ones have sometimes led to clashes between protesters and police. Such gatherings can cause travel disruption in the affected areas. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations and follow local news and directions from security officials.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"crime\">Crime</h2>\n\n<h3 id=\"protecting-yourself-and-your-belongings\">Protecting yourself and your belongings</h3>\n\n<p>There can be occasional violent crime in Morocco. Criminals have used knives against tourists in street attacks, thefts and burglaries in major cities and along beaches. To reduce your risk:</p>\n\n<ul>\n  <li>avoid quiet areas, particularly after dark</li>\n  <li>do not carry large amounts of money or valuables</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p>Petty crime is common in tourist areas, especially in historical districts (medina quarters) and on beaches. Crimes include:</p>\n\n<ul>\n  <li>pickpocketing</li>\n  <li>bag-snatching</li>\n  <li>drive-by motorcycle theft of visible jewellery and handbags</li>\n</ul>\n\n<p>Be cautious when asking for directions and using ATMs – aggressive begging is common.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"scams\">Scams</h3>\n\n<p>Credit card fraud and scams are common. Beware of scammers substituting inferior goods for the ones you bought. Remain alert to potential confidence tricks.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"bogus-tourist-guides\">Bogus tourist guides</h3>\n\n<p>It is common for people posing as official tourist guides to harass tourists.</p>\n\n<p>If you use a guide in a historical district (medina quarter), make sure they have an official badge and permission from the local authority.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"marriage-fraud\">Marriage fraud</h3>\n\n<p>Be cautious if you travel to Morocco for a relationship or to find someone you met on the internet. Incidents of marriage fraud and attempted extortion have affected British nationals. Make sure you keep your return ticket, passport and personal belongings safe.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"methanol-poisoning\">Methanol poisoning </h3>\n\n<p>There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Morocco. </p>\n\n<p>Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/spiking-and-methanol-poisoning/\">Travel Aware Drink Spiking and methanol poisoning</a> for information about how to reduce the risks. </p>\n\n<p>Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/spiking-and-methanol-poisoning/\">signs of methanol poisoning</a> after drinking.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"laws-and-cultural-differences\">Laws and cultural differences</h2>\n\n<p>Morocco’s laws and customs are very different to those in the UK and reflect the fact that Morocco is an Islamic country. Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you plan to visit religious areas.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"ramadan\">Ramadan</h3>\n\n<p>Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, next starting in February 2027. During this time, eating or drinking, swearing, smoking or chewing gum in public in the daytime may cause offence.</p>\n\n<p>Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts, where applicable. You should also: </p>\n\n<ul>\n  <li>check opening hours of shops and restaurants</li>\n  <li>be aware that hotels and restaurants serving food or drink in fasting hours may separate you from Muslim guests, for example with screens</li>\n  <li>follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time</li>\n  <li>be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening</li>\n  <li>\n    <p>be patient and show tolerance</p>\n  </li>\n  <li>be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk.</li>\n</ul>\n\n<h3 id=\"laws-against-religious-conversion\">Laws against religious conversion</h3>\n\n<p>It is illegal to attempt to convert a Muslim to another faith and to distribute evangelical literature (such as Arabic-language bibles). Attempting to convert a Muslim to another faith can result in fines or up to 3 years’ imprisonment.</p>\n\n<p>Public criticism of Islam, including in speeches, print or online media, can result in heavy fines and up 2 years’ imprisonment.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"sexual-relations-outside-of-marriage\">Sexual relations outside of marriage</h3>\n\n<p>Sexual activity between unmarried people and adultery are illegal for Moroccan nationals – this includes sharing a hotel room, particularly with foreign nationals.</p>\n\n<p>The law regarding unmarried people sharing a hotel room does not generally apply to visiting foreign nationals, particularly in popular tourist areas.</p>\n\n<p>Avoid showing affection in public, particularly near religious sites as well as in tourist areas.</p>\n\n<p>Using dating applications in Morocco may break laws relating to sexual relations outside of marriage. Be aware of the legal and personal safety risks when using these applications.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"lgbt-travellers\">LGBT+ travellers</h3>\n\n<p>Same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Morocco. Showing affection in public can lead to prosecution. Meeting people through online applications, can carry legal, personal safety and privacy risks.</p>\n\n<p>See more <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/guidance/lesbian-gay-bisexual-and-transgender-foreign-travel-advice\">advice for LGBT+ travellers</a>.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"alcohol-laws\">Alcohol laws</h3>\n\n<p>Alcohol is available in licensed venues. However, drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest. Travellers should respect local laws and customs at all times.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"illegal-drugs\">Illegal drugs</h3>\n\n<p>Morocco has a zero-tolerance approach towards drugs. Possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs, including cannabis, are serious offences and carry severe penalties.</p>\n\n<p>You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for these actions, including when transiting through the country. Airports in Morocco are equipped with technology and security for detecting items prohibited by customs controls, including for the baggage or transiting passengers. Do not accept items from strangers or leave your bags attended.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"women-travellers\">Women travellers</h3>\n\n<p>Women may receive unwanted attention in Morocco, especially when travelling alone. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing which cover the arms, legs and chest. See <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/guidance/advice-for-women-travelling-abroad\">advice for woman travellers abroad</a>.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"photography-and-filming\">Photography and Filming</h3>\n\n<p>It is illegal to take photographs near sensitive political or military sites. Always ask permission before taking pictures of people, especially children.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"pornography\">Pornography</h3>\n\n<p>It is illegal to possess pornographic material. This includes printed and digital material, and any type of material contrary to Moroccan laws related to morality and public order.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"flying-drones\">Flying drones</h3>\n\n<p>If you plan to bring a drone to Morocco, you must get permission from the <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.aviationcivile.gov.ma/\">Directorate General for Civil Aviation</a> (in French) to fly a drone. If you do not, you risk fines and confiscation of your equipment.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"transport-risks\">Transport risks</h2>\n\n<h3 id=\"road-travel\">Road travel</h3>\n\n<p>If you are planning to drive in Morocco, see <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad\">information on driving abroad</a>.</p>\n\n<p>You’ll need to have both the <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit\">1968 version of the international driving permit (<abbr title=\"International driving permit\">IDP</abbr>)</a> and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an <abbr title=\"International driving permit\">IDP</abbr> outside the UK, so get one before you travel. Morocco no longer accepts the 1949 version of the <abbr title=\"International driving permit\">IDP</abbr>.</p>\n\n<p>If you stay longer than one year, you need a <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://consulat.ma/en/driving-license\">Moroccan driving licence</a>.</p>\n\n<p>You must get a <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-insurance/driving-abroad\">green card from your insurer</a> and carry it with you to prove you have the minimum insurance cover in Morocco.</p>\n\n<p>Hire car companies often have strict requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a higher minimum age.</p>\n\n<p>Drink-driving is a serious offence in Morocco. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you will get a fine and possible imprisonment.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"driving-conditions\">Driving conditions</h3>\n\n<p>Be more alert to other vehicles, pedestrians and animals as poor lighting can make it dangerous to drive at night. When weather conditions are poor, secondary routes and mountain roads can be especially hazardous. On motorways, be cautious of overloaded lorries and trucks overtaking when there is no hard shoulder.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"road-accidents\">Road accidents</h3>\n\n<p>Road accidents are a frequent occurrence in Morocco. If you’re involved in a road accident, complete a form (‘constat amiable’), to be signed by both parties. Blank forms are available from insurance company booths in Tangier Port and tobacconists in all cities.</p>\n\n<p>If you are involved in a fatal road accident, and the Moroccan authorities think you’re responsible, they may detain you before a trial hearing.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"vehicle-documentation\">Vehicle documentation</h3>\n\n<p>The authorities will record your registration number when you drive into Morocco. If you’re not in the same vehicle when you try to leave the country, they will detain you and refuse to let you exit.</p>\n\n<p>You’ll need to show evidence of motor insurance when entering and exiting the country. Always carry your insurance, licence and registration documents with you when driving.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"taxis\">Taxis</h3>\n\n<p>Many taxis booked through ride sharing applications may be unregulated and unlicensed. Travellers should therefore exercise caution and remain vigilant if using these applications. Drivers may not be registered with the authorities, and their vehicles may not be insured to carry passengers. The police may tell you to get out of an unlicensed taxi if they stop it. It is advisable to either agree a fare in advance or check the taxi is using a meter.</p>\n\n<p>Drivers of ‘petits’ or ‘grands taxis’ sometimes speed and do not follow other driving rules, particularly in big cities. Exercise caution when using petit taxis, especially during late night journeys. Be aware that petit taxi drivers will often pick up other customers during the journey. Should you feel uncomfortable at any point, end the journey as soon as it is safe to do so and move to a well-lit area.    </p>\n\n<h3 id=\"electronic-scooters-and-bikes\">Electronic scooters and bikes</h3>\n\n<p>When riding an electronic scooter or bike, wear a helmet and do not use headphones or earphones while riding. Be aware there are often no cycle lanes on roads.</p>\n\n<p>Follow local laws and regulations and ensure you are aware of any requirements before using an electric scooter.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"outdoor-activities-and-adventure-tourism\">Outdoor activities and adventure tourism</h2>\n\n<p>Providers of recreational and adventure tourism may not meet UK safety standards. Check safety standards with the tour operators or providers and make sure you are insured if you take part in activities such as water sports, boat tours or quad biking. Be aware that some insurance policies will not cover these activities. Book excursions for activities and water sports through reputable agents or at your hotel or resort.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"hiking-in-the-atlas-mountains\">Hiking in the Atlas Mountains</h3>\n\n<p>If you’re planning to hike in the Atlas Mountains:</p>\n\n<ul>\n  <li>research trails and understand how much experience you’ll need</li>\n  <li>pack essentials such as water, sunscreen and appropriate clothing</li>\n  <li>hire a professional guide</li>\n  <li>get comprehensive travel insurance and make sure it covers your planned activities</li>\n</ul>\n\n<h3 id=\"quad-biking\">Quad biking</h3>\n\n<p>Quad bike accidents involving British nationals frequently occur in resort areas. Take the same precautions as you would in the UK. Safety standards vary considerably. Always wear a crash helmet.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"hot-air-balloons\">Hot air balloons</h3>\n\n<p>Book hot air balloon trips only through licensed tour operators. Unlicensed providers may not meet required safety standards.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"beaches\">Beaches</h3>\n\n<p>Many beaches in Morocco have limited or no lifeguard cover, and safety signage may be minimal. Strong currents and unexpected waves can occur. Take care when entering the water and avoid swimming in isolated areas. See <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.abta.com/tips-and-advice/staying-safe-on-holiday/swim-safe\">water safety guidance if swimming</a>.</p>\n\n<p>Swimming in open water, including dams and rivers, can be dangerous. Deep mud and steep underwater slopes can trap people and lead to drowning.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"extreme-weather-and-natural-disasters\">Extreme weather and natural disasters</h2>\n\n<p>Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to <a href=\"https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tropical-cyclones\">extreme weather and natural hazards</a>. </p>\n\n<h3 id=\"earthquakes\">Earthquakes</h3>\n\n<p>Earthquakes are a risk in Morocco. The last major earthquake, in 2023, killed almost 3,000 people. There are occasional minor earthquakes. Familiarise yourself with earthquake safety procedures and any instructions in hotel rooms.</p>\n\n<p>In the event of an earthquake, stay away from walls, windows, trees, signs. It is safer to stand in open spaces or shelter under heavy furniture or in a door threshold. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about <a rel=\"external\" href=\"https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes\">what to do before, during and after an earthquake</a>.</p>\n\n<h3 id=\"flooding\">Flooding</h3>\n\n<p>Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in some areas, particularly in the mountains or near rivers during winter months. Walking and driving can be dangerous in flooded areas. If you’re near a flood, monitor local media and follow instructions from local authorities.</p>\n\n<h2 id=\"wildfires\">Wildfires</h2>\n\n<p>There is a risk of wildfires during the summer season. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly. Always follow the advice and instructions of the local authorities. Make sure cigarettes are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty glass bottles behind.</p>\n\n","customs_snippets":["Carrying another person’s passport may attract scrutiny from Police, Immigration, Customs, or Border Officials.","You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.","The Moroccan dirham is a closed ‘non-convertible’ currency.","You must declare foreign currency worth 100,000 Moroccan dirham or more (equal to around £8,000) when you enter or leave the country.","There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Morocco.","It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell.","Morocco’s laws and customs are very different to those in the UK and reflect the fact that Morocco is an Islamic country.","Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions.","Alcohol is available in licensed venues.","However, drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.","Travellers should respect local laws and customs at all times.","Possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs, including cannabis, are serious offences and carry severe penalties."]}
