Moroccan Customs Clarifies Rules for Expats Bringing Pleasure Boats into Country

Moroccan customs make a fairly clear distinction between pleasure boats and other nautical sports equipment, such as jet skis, for example. In the case of the boat, the ADII writes:

"Private maritime transport means (pleasure boats), intended to stay in a Moroccan marina, belonging to persons having their habitual residence abroad, can benefit from a stay period of 18 months under the temporary admission regime". The provisions are specified in circular 5574/313 of 11/02/2016.

It is thus specified that this measure only concerns pleasure boats imported by people living abroad. "Other nautical sports equipment (jet-ski and the like) as well as boats that do not dock in a marina continue to benefit from the temporary admission period of 06 months," it also reads.

The 18-month period must not be exceeded, otherwise the situation must be regularized with the administration. "After the expiry of the temporary admission periods granted, the customs status of the vehicle or pleasure boat must be regularized either by re-export or, where applicable, clearance under the regulatory conditions with payment of the duties and taxes due. In both cases, a fine for non-compliance with the commitments made under the temporary admission remains payable," it is further indicated.

Note that seasonal workers must justify a stay abroad of six (06) months or more, to be eligible for the temporary admission regime (employment contract, residence visa).