Morocco
• Africa
Overview
Morocco offers US citizens 90-day visa-free entry with straightforward residency permit options for longer stays. The cost of living is remarkably low—couples can live comfortably on $1,800-2,500/month in cities like Marrakech, with meals at restaurants costing just $3-16. Housing ranges from $400/month for modest apartments to $1,500+ for premium locations. There's no specific retirement visa, but the Carte de Séjour residency permit requires proving $500-1,500/month income. Popular expat cities include Marrakech (cultural hub), Casablanca (business center), Rabat, and Tangier. French and Arabic are primary languages; English is limited but growing. Private healthcare in major cities meets international standards.
Visa Options
Carte de Séjour (Residency Permit)
General residency permit for retirees and those with independent means. Requires proof of $500-1,500/month income.
Tourist Entry (Visa-Free)
90-day visa-free entry for US citizens. Can apply for Carte de Séjour residency permit within first 30 days for longer stays.
Highlights
- ✓90-day visa-free entry for US citizens
- ✓Extremely low cost of living - couples on $1,800-2,500/month
- ✓Restaurant meals $3-16, groceries under $1
- ✓Rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture
- ✓Only 6-hour flight from US East Coast
- ✓Growing digital nomad scene in Marrakech
Considerations
- !No specific retirement or digital nomad visa
- !French/Arabic primary - limited English
- !Residency permit bureaucracy can be slow
- !Public healthcare quality varies - private recommended
- !Summer heat extreme in interior cities