In short: many nationalities, including EU, UK and US citizens, can enter Morocco without a visa for a tourist stay of up to 90 days. To stay longer you need to apply for a residency card. The simplest start is to rent long term, which also gives you the proof of address needed for most formalities.
1. Staying: visa and residency card
Depending on your nationality, you can enter Morocco without a visa for a tourist stay of up to 90 days. Check your case with the Moroccan consulate in your country before leaving.
To settle long term, you apply for a residency card (carte d’immatriculation) with the police services where you live. The documents usually include your passport, photos, proof of accommodation (lease or title deed) and proof of income or activity. The exact list depends on your situation (employee, retiree, investor, spouse of a Moroccan): check with the authorities before preparing the file.
2. Housing: rent first, buy later
Even if you plan to buy, rent by the year first: you will get to know the areas day to day before committing. Our guide Best areas to live in Marrakech helps you choose, and you will find our apartments and villas for long-term rent.
The written lease is your first official document: it serves as proof of address for the residency card, the bank and schools.
3. Banking
A Moroccan bank account makes it easier to pay rent, bills and everyday purchases. Banks usually ask for your passport, proof of address and proof of income. Non-residents can open specific accounts; if you plan to buy, keep a record of every transfer from abroad (see our guide Buying property in Morocco as a foreigner).
4. Healthcare
Marrakech has private clinics and specialist doctors, many of whom speak French and some English. Most expats take out international health insurance or private local cover. If you are retired, check with your pension fund and health insurer what remains covered after you move.
5. Schools
Marrakech has several international schools: schools following the French curriculum, as well as schools offering British or American programmes. Places are limited in some year groups: contact schools several months before the start of the year, and factor the school run into your choice of home.
6. Getting around
In Gueliz and Hivernage you can live without a car, walking and using petits taxis. On the outskirts (Palmeraie, Ourika or Fez roads), a car becomes essential. Marrakech-Menara airport is close to the city and connected to many European cities.
7. Everyday climate
Summers are very hot and winters mild by day but cool at night. During viewings, check the air conditioning and the heating, as well as the insulation: that is what makes the difference in comfort all year round.
Where to start?
The simplest order: 1) find a long-term home, 2) open a bank account, 3) apply for the residency card, 4) enrol the children at school. For the first step, tell us what you need: we will send you a selection of suitable properties and arrange viewings, in person or by video.
Residency rules change: always check with the Moroccan authorities and your consulate. Last updated: October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to move to Marrakech?
Depending on your nationality, you can enter Morocco without a visa for a tourist stay of up to 90 days. To stay longer, you apply for a residency card with the police services where you live. Check your case with the Moroccan consulate before leaving.
How do I get a residency card in Morocco?
You apply with the police services where you live. The documents usually include your passport, photos, proof of accommodation such as a lease, and proof of income or activity. The exact list depends on your situation.
Should I rent before buying in Marrakech?
It is the safest approach: renting by the year lets you get to know the areas day to day before committing. The written lease also serves as proof of address for the residency card, the bank and schools.
What documents do I need to rent with Live In Marrakech?
A passport or a national ID card is enough. The lease is one year minimum, and the security deposit is one month’s rent for an unfurnished home or two months for a furnished one.
