Return ticket, hotel booked: Morocco tightens entry rules for some Algerians and Tunisians

Several Algerian and Tunisian nationals are said to have recently been turned away upon arrival in Morocco. The checks reportedly focus in particular on accommodation bookings and the ability to prove departure from the country.

However, this does not amount to reinstating the visa requirement. No general change to the entry rules for Algerians and Tunisians has been officially announced by Rabat. The reported measures correspond to stricter checks applied to certain travelers.

On Bladi.net : Morocco Considers Reinstating Visa Requirements for Algerians Amid Security Concerns

Morocco had already adopted a stricter approach during previous attempts to cross into Ceuta. In September 2024, 39 Algerians and Tunisians arrested near Fnideq were expelled from Morocco after attempting to reach the Spanish enclave clandestinely.

Ceuta changes the situation

The current tightening is said to be directly linked to the events of 30 and 31 July in Ceuta. Among those who reached or attempted to reach the enclave were nationals of other North African countries, alongside Moroccans.

The aim would now be to prevent Morocco from serving as a transit country for travelers who entered legally before heading north. The issue is all the more sensitive because WhatsApp groups administered from Algerian numbers are said to have circulated routes and schedules for reaching Ceuta.

Moroccan authorities had already stepped up monitoring of social networks during previous migration mobilizations. In 2024, several Algerians were notably prosecuted after calls to join others heading to Ceuta.

On Bladi.net : Ceuta: WhatsApp set the time, Facebook provided the maps, TikTok fueled the desire to leave

The increased checks reported in Casablanca would therefore shift part of the mechanism much further upstream: rather than waiting for would-be emigrants to arrive in the vicinity of Fnideq, the authorities would now seek to verify upon entry into Morocco that the stated stay is sufficiently justified.