Any foreign national staying in Morocco beyond the period allowed by their visa or their exemption must apply for a registration card, commonly known as a residence permit. You apply at the foreign nationals department of the police prefecture for the place where you live.
The file varies with the reason given – spouse of a Moroccan national, employee, investor, student, pensioner – and it is that reason which determines the supporting documents and the period granted.
Documents required
- Valid passportWith the visa or the entry stamp
- Application formCollected from the foreign nationals department
- Proof of the reason for stayingMarriage certificate, approved employment contract, company articles of association, proof of pension
- Proof of addressTenancy agreement or certificate of accommodation
- Proof of meansBank statements or a statement of income
- Criminal record extractFrom your country of origin, translated and legalised
- Medical certificateDepending on the category applied for
- Identity photographs and stampsRegulation format
The procedure, step by step
- Determine the category
It governs the list of documents and the period granted. Getting the category wrong means starting the file again.
- Gather the documents from your country of origin
The criminal record extract and the certificates have to be translated and legalised: this is the longest part.
- Submit the file at the prefecture
The foreign nationals department for the place where you live; you are given an acknowledgement of receipt.
- Collect the card
Then keep an eye on the expiry date: renewal has to be started several months ahead.
Pitfalls to avoid
- Overstaying the period allowed before submitting the application - being there unlawfully complicates the whole file.
- Waiting until the permit expires to apply for renewal: it has to be started well in advance.
- Underestimating how long the criminal record extract from your country of origin takes, translation and legalisation included.
- Providing a certificate of accommodation without the supporting documents of the person accommodating you.
Frequently asked questions
How long is it valid for?
It depends on the category: from one year renewable for a first permit to longer periods after several regular renewals.
Is there a special regime for the foreign spouse of a Moroccan national?
Marriage to a Moroccan national is a recognised reason for staying, with a file of its own. The marriage certificate must be transcribed into the Moroccan civil status registers - see our guide on marriage for Moroccans living abroad.
Can I work with this card?
The right to work depends on the category. Salaried employment requires a contract approved by the competent authorities, obtained before the application is made.
Last updated: January 2026 · Indicative estimate - check with the relevant administration.