France Puts an End to Visa Restrictions with Morocco

French authorities announced on Friday, December 16th that Morocco would no longer be subject to visa restrictions.

After talks with Nasser Bourita in Rabat, Catherine Colonna, Minister of Foreign Affairs of France announced the news. This means that France will not limit the number visas granted to Moroccans. SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.

Minister Bourita spoke with Minister Colonna, who said that France had taken steps with Moroccan partners in order to restore consular relations. He also stressed that France is ready to 'write a new chapter together'.

France announced last year it would reduce the number of visas granted to citizens of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. These countries had refused to return their citizens living in France illegally.

Reuters reports that France did not receive anything from Morocco in return. It was pointed out by the same that Minister Bourita stated that France made a unilateral decision to end restrictions following what he said was a unilateral decision to place restrictions.

Reuters also points out the above-mentioned. It notes that France has closer relations with Morocco than the other two countries - Algerian and Tunisia - but at the same moment, it emphasizes that ties between France & Morocco have deteriorated since it was reported that Emmanuel Macron's phone was on a list that was being monitored by Morocco.

According to the same source, the improved relations between France and Morocco came only two days after they played each other at the World Cup in Qatar. France won the match and this made it easier to see the strong links between France, Morocco and their dual nationals.

Morocco is yet to sign a visa-liberalization agreement with Schengen Area member states. Therefore, Moroccan citizens must obtain a visa to enter the bloc.

A Schengen visa allows for short-stay travel and permits holders to visit the EU for up to 90 days in a 180-day time frame.

Moroccan nationals who wish to travel to the bloc must apply for a visitor visa. Moroccans need to submit the following documents: the application form, their Moroccan passport and identity photos; a certificate of civil status; travel insurance; round-trip flight itinerary; evidence of accommodation; proof of sufficient financial resources; and a cover letter.

Depending on the job status of applicants, additional documents may also be required.

 

Source: schengenvisainfo.com