Morocco Eases Car Import Rules for Expats Ahead of Marhaba 2025

– bySaid@Bladi · 2 min read
Morocco Eases Car Import Rules for Expats Ahead of Marhaba 2025

As the Marhaba 2025 operation approaches, the Customs and Indirect Taxes Administration (ADII) is adjusting its system for welcoming Moroccans residing abroad (MRE). In the interest of efficiency and fluidity, several measures have been taken, notably two significant relaxations concerning the customs clearance of passenger vehicles.

The first modification concerns access to the 90% tax reduction on the new value of an imported vehicle, an advantage already existing for MREs aged 60 and over with at least ten years of residence abroad. The new feature is the simplification of the process to prove this residence. The ADII has expanded the list of accepted supporting documents beyond the traditional consular certificate. Provincial and prefectural directorates can now validate other probative documents:

• Detailed stay history issued by a competent authority (Police Prefecture, City Hall, Employment Department, etc.);
• Residence permit or registration card with a consulate;
• Foreign identity card mentioning an address abroad;
• Certificate of residence abroad.
• This diversification aims to facilitate the compilation of files for eligible individuals.

A second adjustment is aimed at MREs making their permanent return to Morocco. They retain the right, unique in their lifetime, to a three-year reduction on the age of their vehicle for the calculation of duties and taxes. This advantage is personal, non-transferable, limited to a single vehicle and is not applicable to diplomatic officials or student trainees. The novelty here lies in the removal of the obligation to provide income or tax justifications, such as pay slips for the last two years for employees or tax documents for traders and liberal professions. All other eligibility conditions remain in force, however.

These measures are part of the broader preparations for the Marhaba 2025 operation. The Moroccan-Spanish Joint Transit Commission, which recently met in Cadiz, emphasized the importance of strengthening coordination to effectively manage flows, especially during peak periods. Discussions focused on anticipating peaks, the interchangeability of maritime transport tickets, and preventing speculation on crossing prices.

To better inform users, the ADII has updated the customs guide for MREs. This document, accessible online, lists all the updated provisions and procedures, offering clear support for customs procedures.