Quick Facts
Requirement
Visa Required
Visa Fee
ZAR 426
(~$23)
Processing Time
5–7 working days
Appointment Wait
~ weeks
Stay Duration
Up to 90 days
E-Visa
Available online
Morocco is often assumed visa-free for South Africans — it is not. A visa is required, with no option for visa on arrival. If you hold a valid Schengen or US/UK visa, the fast online e-visa at acces-maroc.ma is the easiest route. Otherwise, apply at the Moroccan Embassy in Pretoria with 2 weeks' lead time.
Key Warnings
- Morocco is NOT visa-free for South Africans — this is a common misconception. There is no visa on arrival. You must have your visa before boarding your flight.
- The Morocco e-visa (acces-maroc.ma) is only available to South Africans who also hold a valid visa from: Schengen, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Cyprus, Japan, or UAE. Without one of these, you must apply at the embassy in Pretoria.
- Allow at least 2 weeks for the embassy visa application. Apply earlier during peak periods (summer, Ramadan).
Insider Tips
- If you have a valid Schengen visa from a recent European trip, Morocco makes a brilliant add-on — Marrakech is just 3 hours from Madrid or 2 hours from Paris.
- Marrakech (RAK), Casablanca (CMN), and Agadir (AGA) are the main entry airports. Direct flights from Johannesburg to Casablanca with Royal Air Maroc, or connect via European hubs.
- The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency — budget in MAD. Cash is king in the medinas (old cities) and souks. Credit cards accepted in riads and restaurants.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Check if you qualify for the e-visa
If you hold a valid Schengen, US, UK, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, or UAE visa or residence permit, you can use the e-visa at acces-maroc.ma. If not, proceed to the embassy application.
-
Option A: Apply via acces-maroc.ma (e-visa)
Visit acces-maroc.ma, create an account, and apply for a single-entry tourist visa. Upload your SA passport, qualifying visa (Schengen/US/UK etc.), photo, and travel itinerary. Pay the fee online. Approval typically within 24–72 hours.
-
Option B: Apply at Moroccan Embassy, Pretoria
Visit 799 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, Pretoria on Monday–Thursday, 09:00–11:00. Submit your completed application form, 2 photos, bank statements, flight itinerary, hotel booking, and travel insurance. Pay DH 220 (~ZAR 426) in cash.
-
Wait for approval (3–7 days)
Embassy applications take 3–7 business days. E-visa approvals arrive in 24–72 hours. Apply at least 2 weeks before travel.
-
Collect your visa
Embassy applicants collect from the Moroccan Embassy (Mon–Thu, 13:30–15:30). E-visa is delivered by email — print it or save to phone.
Required Documents
-
Valid South African passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date.
-
Two recent passport photos
35 × 45mm, white or light-blue background, recent (within 6 months).
-
Completed visa application form
Obtain from the Moroccan Embassy or download from their website.
-
Return or onward flight booking
Confirmed itinerary showing entry and exit from Morocco.
-
Hotel or accommodation confirmation
Full accommodation details for your Morocco stay.
-
Bank statements
Proof of sufficient funds to cover your trip costs.
-
Travel insurance
Required for the Morocco visa application.
Recommended (Optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for Morocco?
Yes — Morocco requires a visa for South African passport holders. There is no visa on arrival. Two options: (1) online e-visa at acces-maroc.ma if you hold a valid Schengen, US, or UK visa; (2) embassy application at the Moroccan Embassy in Pretoria. Allow at least 2 weeks for processing.
Can South Africans use the Morocco e-visa?
Only if you also hold a valid visa or residence permit from Schengen, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Cyprus, Japan, or UAE. If you have one of these, apply at acces-maroc.ma — quick and convenient. Without a qualifying visa, you must apply in person at the Moroccan Embassy, 799 Francis Baard Street, Pretoria.
Where do South Africans apply for a Morocco visa?
The Moroccan Embassy in Pretoria: 799 Francis Baard Street, Arcadia, Pretoria. Application hours: Monday–Thursday, 09:00–11:00. Collection: Monday–Thursday, 13:30–15:30. Processing takes 3–7 business days. Bring your completed form, 2 photos, bank statements, return ticket, hotel booking, and travel insurance. Fee: approximately ZAR 426 (DH 220).
I thought Morocco was visa-free for South Africans?
This is a common misconception. Morocco is NOT visa-free for South African passport holders. A visa must be obtained before travel — there is no visa on arrival. Double-check your specific passport nationality before booking. Don't confuse Morocco with visa-free destinations like Mauritius, Namibia, or Zimbabwe.