From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the vast, serene expanse of the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a sensory adventure unlike any other. If you're a traveler from Cyprus dreaming of colorful tagines, intricate tilework, and historic medinas, you're in for a treat. But what about the travel formalities?
Many travelers get confused about the new Morocco eVisa system. Do Cypriot citizens need one?
The great news is: No, citizens of the Republic of Cyprus do not need a visa for Morocco for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
Your Cypriot passport grants you visa-free access, making your travel planning significantly easier. This guide will walk you through the exact entry requirements for your visa-free trip and also clarify the Morocco eVisa system for those who might need it (like non-Cypriot residents of Cyprus).
Do Cypriot Citizens Need a Visa for Morocco?
Let's clear this up right away. For tourism, Cypriot passport holders are visa-exempt. You can enter and stay in Morocco for a period of up to 90 days without any visa at all.
This visa-free policy puts Morocco on the "easy to visit" list for Cypriot travelers, allowing you to focus on planning your itinerary rather than on complex visa paperwork.
What Are the Entry Requirements for Visa-Free Travel?
While you don't need a visa, you can't just show up with your passport. Upon arrival in Morocco, an immigration officer will ask you to present a few key documents. Think of this as your "entry checklist."
Based on Morocco Visa Requirement (and the fine print often seen in visa applications), here’s what you must have ready:
A Valid Cypriot Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Morocco.
Proof of a Return or Onward Ticket: Be prepared to show a printed or digital copy of your flight ticket leaving Morocco.
Proof of Accommodation: This can be a hotel reservation confirmation, a booking for a riad, or even an "invitation" (lettre d'invitation) if you are staying with family or friends.
Sufficient Financial Means: You must be able to prove you can support yourself during your stay. The general guideline is to have access to a minimum of 70 EUR per day. This can be shown through a recent bank statement, credit cards, or cash.
Having these documents organized and ready will ensure a smooth and welcoming entry process at the airport.
How Long Can Cypriot Citizens Stay in Morocco Without a Visa?
Your visa-free status as a Cypriot citizen allows you to stay in Morocco for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. This is more than enough time for an extensive holiday, whether you're trekking the Atlas Mountains, exploring the blue city of Chefchaouen, or surfing in Taghazout.
What if I Want to Stay Longer Than 90 Days?
If your travel plans involve staying longer than 90 days (for work, study, or extended travel), you cannot use the visa-free entry. You will need to apply for a long-stay visa before you travel. This process is handled directly by a Moroccan embassy or consulate.
Where is the Moroccan Embassy or Consulate for Cyprus Residents?
For visa matters that fall outside the 90-day visa-free rule, you will need to contact Morocco's diplomatic mission. While there is an Honorary Consulate of Morocco in Nicosia, major visa and consular services are typically handled by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Athens, Greece, which has jurisdiction over Cyprus.
It is always best to call or email them well in advance of your planned travel to get the most accurate, up-to-date information on long-stay visa applications.
What About the Morocco eVisa? (Clearing the Confusion)
So, why is there so much talk about a "Morocco eVisa"? You may have even seen online application forms (like the ones in the screenshots you provided) mentioning it.
The Morocco eVisa is a fantastic new system, but it is not for passport holders of visa-exempt countries like Cyprus.
The eVisa was launched to simplify travel for nationalities who do require a visa. There are generally two groups of countries eligible for the eVisa:
Group A: A list of specific countries whose citizens can apply for the eVisa directly, regardless of other documents they hold.
Group B (Conditional): This is the key category that causes confusion. This group includes citizens from many countries who can apply for a Morocco eVisa if they hold a valid, multiple-entry visa or residence permit from a "high-demand" country.
I live in Cyprus but I am not Cypriot. Am I Eligible for the eVisa?
This is where the eVisa becomes highly relevant. If you are a resident of Cyprus (e.g., on a work permit or as a student) but hold a passport from a country that is not visa-exempt, you may be eligible for the eVisa under the conditional "Group B" rules.
For example, if your passport nationality is on Morocco's "Group B" list, you can apply for the eVisa by providing a:
Valid Multiple-Entry Visa OR
Valid Residence Permit ...from one of the following countries: Schengen Area (like your Cyprus residence permit!), USA, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Ireland, or New Zealand.
Your supporting visa or permit must be valid for at least 90 days from the date you submit your eVisa application.
How to Apply for the Morocco eVisa for Eligible Nationalities?
If you fall into this category, the process is 100% online. You will need to:
Fill out the Morocco eVisa application form with your personal, passport, and travel details.
Upload the required documents.
Pay the visa fee online.
Receive your approved eVisa via email.
What Documents Are Needed for Morocco eVisa Application?
Based on the online Morocco eVisa, applicants will need:
Passport Bio Page: A clear, color scan of your passport's information page.
Applicant Photo: A recent, passport-style digital photo.
Supporting Document: A clear scan of your valid multiple-entry visa or residence permit from a qualifying country (like your Cypriot residence card).
What are the Morocco eVisa Photo Requirements?
The Morocco eVisa is specific about the photo. It must be:
A recent (within 6 months) color photo.
Dimensions of 35mm x 45mm.
Taken against a plain white or light-colored background.
Show your full face with a neutral expression, looking directly at the camera.
No shadows, glare, or head coverings (except for religious reasons).
How Long Does the Morocco eVisa Take to Process?
This is a major benefit for eligible travelers. The processing times are typically:
Normal Processing: 3 to 6 business days.
Rush Processing: 2 to 4 business days (for an additional fee).
Super Rush Processing: 1 to 2 business days (for a higher fee).
What Morocco eVisa Types Are Available?
The Morocco eVisa typically offers two main types for short stays:
Tourist eVisa: For tourism and holidays.
Business eVisa: For meetings, conferences, or other professional activities.
Both are usually Single Entry visas, with a total validity of 180 days from the date of issue. This means you must enter Morocco within that 6-month window. Once you enter, your stay is limited to a maximum of 30 days.
Can My Morocco eVisa Application Be Refused?
Yes. As the application declaration states:
"Any refused request is non-refundable." Fees will not be returned if your application is denied.
"I certify the accuracy of the information provided, in case of error my request will be refused." This is a critical warning. Double- and triple-check every detail you enter. A simple typo in your passport number or birthdate can lead to an automatic refusal.
FAQ for Cypriot Travelers
Q: Is Morocco safe for tourists from Cyprus?
A: Yes, Morocco is widely considered a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. As with any travel, it's wise to use common sense, be aware of your surroundings in crowded markets, and respect local customs and traditions.
Q: What is the currency in Morocco?
A: The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). While credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, you will need cash for small shops, taxis, and market stalls. It's best to withdraw cash from ATMs upon arrival.
Q: Do I need travel insurance for Morocco?
A: While not a mandatory entry requirement for visa-free travel, it is highly recommended. Good travel insurance will cover you for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage.
Q: Can I use Euros in Morocco?
A: Some vendors in very tourist-heavy areas (like Marrakech) might accept Euros, but you will almost always get a very poor exchange rate. It is always better to pay in the local currency, Moroccan Dirhams.
Your Moroccan Adventure Awaits
To summarize: as a Cypriot citizen, your path to Morocco is clear! Forget the eVisa; your passport is your key. Just gather your essential documents—a passport with 6 months' validity, your return ticket, hotel booking, and proof of funds—and prepare for an unforgettable 90-day visa-free adventure.
For our non-Cypriot friends living in Cyprus, the eVisa system is your streamlined ticket, provided you have that all-important supporting residence permit or visa.
Morocco is waiting. Safe travels!