Moroccan Truckers Face Visa Hurdles as France Tightens Schengen Restrictions

Since France announced the 50% reduction in the granting of Schengen visas for Moroccans because Morocco would not allow the return of its expelled nationals, the drivers of international road transport (TIR) companies who ensure transport to Europe are having a hard time carrying out their activities. French consulates have rejected hundreds of visa applications they have filed in recent months for unjustified reasons.

Speaking on this subject during the oral question session held last Monday at the House of Representatives, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mohamed Abdeljalil, seems to be minimizing the situation. He stated that the issuance of this type of visa has only fallen by 10% compared to 2020. "There are contacts (between Rabat and Paris and professional organizations) to try to find a solution to this problem," he added, assuring that negotiations have been initiated, which have resulted in the reduction of the duration of obtaining appointments in French consulates and the duration of visa responses.