Starting a Business in Morocco as a Foreigner
Complete guide for foreign entrepreneurs: advantages, legal forms, procedures, documents and practical tips.
Why Morocco?
Access to a market of 36 million consumers
Morocco offers a dynamic domestic market and serves as a hub to sub-Saharan Africa.
Attractive taxation
Progressive corporate tax rates, free zones with exemptions, tax treaties with 60+ countries.
Qualified and competitive workforce
Advantageous labor costs, young and trained population, multilingualism (Arabic, French, English).
Political and economic stability
Morocco is considered one of the most stable countries in the MENA region.
Modern infrastructure
Ports, airports, highways, industrial zones... Morocco invests heavily in its infrastructure.
Proximity to Europe
3h flight from Paris, similar time zone, free trade agreements with the EU.
Legal Structures
LLC (SARL)
The most popular. Simple, flexible, limited liability.
Corporation (SA)
For large projects. Allows stock exchange listing.
SAS
Flexible governance. Popular with startups.
Branch Office
Extension of a foreign company. No separate legal personality.
Required Documents
- Valid passport(Certified true copy)
- Proof of foreign address(Less than 3 months old)
- Negative certificate(OMPIC application (online))
- Company statutes(Drafted by a professional)
- Capital blocking certificate(Moroccan bank)
- Lease or domiciliation contract(For the registered office)
- Power of attorney (if represented)(Legalized by consulate)
Formation Steps
Obtain the negative certificate
Online application on OMPIC website. Reservation of your company name.
Draft the statutes
With a lawyer or chartered accountant. Definition of business purpose, capital, management...
Block capital in bank
Open a professional bank account and deposit the share capital.
Register documents
Tax registration of statutes and appointment minutes.
Legal publication
Publication in Official Gazette and legal announcements journal.
Trade Register registration
Submission to Commercial Court. Obtaining RC number.
Tax ID and ICE
Attribution of Tax Identification Number and Common Business Identifier.
CNSS affiliation
Registration with National Social Security Fund (if employees).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Morocco?
Yes, in most sectors. There are no nationality restrictions for LLC (SARL), SA, or SAS ownership. Only certain regulated sectors (banking, insurance, etc.) require specific authorizations.
Do I need a visa to start a business in Morocco?
Not necessarily for company formation. However, if you want to reside and work in Morocco, you'll need a work visa or investor visa. Company formation can be done remotely with power of attorney.
Can I open a bank account without being present?
Difficult but possible. Most banks require physical presence for account opening. Some accept remote account opening with certified documents and video verification.
What are the taxes for a foreign company in Morocco?
Same rates as Moroccan companies: Corporate tax (10% to 31% depending on profit), VAT (20%), business tax. Tax treaties may reduce withholding tax on dividends repatriated abroad.
How long does it take to start a business as a foreigner?
With proper preparation: 2-4 weeks. Main delays: bank account opening (up to 2 weeks) and document legalization at consulate if abroad.
Ready to Start Your Business in Morocco?
Our bilingual team supports foreign entrepreneurs at every step. Remote formation possible.
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