Sending money abroad from Morocco can be confusing, especially if you’re a foreigner working in the country and trying to send money back home. Online banking isn’t an option for now, and you’ll need to handle some paperwork.

Here’s what actually works and what to expect when you visit your bank.

What You Need to Know

Transferring money abroad from Morocco isn’t yet a simple online click. It’s a regulated financial process that requires in-person verification. If you work and live in Morocco, here’s what to keep in mind:

Be ready for branch visits in person.
Bring your carte de séjour, which is your proof of legal residence in the country.
Prepare documentation for the purpose of the transfer. For example, a contrat de travail d’étranger (it’s your work permit).
Ask about fees and transfer times before confirming the transaction.

Make Your Documents Ready

Your bank will confirm the exact list of required documents, as it depends on your account type and residency status. However, the following checklist will help you prepare in advance.

Step 1: Go to your bank branch in person

Moroccan banks don’t process international transfers online. You’ll need to visit your local branch (e.g. Attijariwafa Bank, Banque Populaire, BMCE, Société Générale Maroc) to start the process.

Step 2: Bring original documents and copies

Morocco remains largely paper-based. Most banks can make copies for you, but it helps to bring your own. Generally, notarisation is not required.

Documents to bring:

Carte de séjour – residence permit
Passport – the one used to apply for your carte de séjour
Details from your foreign bank:

Bank name and branch address
IBAN or account number
SWIFT/BIC code
Currency confirmation

Contrat de travail d’étranger – your work permit
Certificat de travail – recent employment certificate from your company
Certificat de salaire – recent salary certificate from your company

Step 3: Sign and Authorise the Transfer

Once the documents are verified, the bank clerk will issue a transfer request form listing your details and those of the recipient bank. Review the form carefully before signing.
If any information is incorrect, your transfer may be delayed or rejected entirely.

Step 4: Processing Time

International transfers typically take five to ten business days, depending on the destination and currency. Delays can occur during public holidays in either Morocco or the destination country.

Exchange Rates and Total Fees

International transfers involve several costs. Ask your bank to explain each one clearly so you aren’t caught by surprise.

Common fees include:

Bank commission for sending the transfer.
Intermediary bank fees, if your Moroccan bank doesn’t have a direct relationship with the recipient’s bank
Exchange rate margin, which depends on the day’s quotation. Ask whether the rate includes a markup.

Pro Tips from People Who’ve Done It

Go early in the morning — international departments often stop processing after midday.
Double-check IBAN and SWIFT codes — one wrong digit can delay your transfer for days.
Keep copies of all documents and your SWIFT reference — you may need them for future transfers.

The Rules Behind the Process

Although it may feel bureaucratic, there’s a valid reason for all the paperwork. Morocco’s foreign-exchange system is regulated by the Office des Changes and Bank Al-Maghrib. The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is a non-convertible currency, meaning you cannot freely move it outside the country without authorisation and supporting documents.

Residence Status Matters

Residents (Moroccan nationals and foreigners with a valid carte de séjour) may transfer funds abroad, provided they can justify the purpose and source of the money.
Non-residents (including foreigners without residency) cannot send money from a standard Dirham account. They may only use convertible Dirham accounts or seek special authorisation.

Banks must verify each client’s residency status, which is why the carte de séjour is required in practice.

Our last thoughts

What might seem like excessive bureaucracy becomes much easier once you understand what to expect.

With the right paperwork — and your carte de séjour in hand — transferring money abroad from Morocco is a smooth and legitimate process.

If you need help setting up your banking arrangements or ensuring all your services are activated for both local and international use, Sorato.io can guide you every step of the way.

How to Send Money Abroad from Morocco: A Practical Guide for Expat Workers