Morocco: Authorities announce gradual resumption of international flights effective June 15 /update 65

Event

Moroccan authorities announced the gradual resumption of international flights to and from Morocco beginning June 15. List A countries are those that demonstrate indicators of improved control of COVID-19. Travelers arriving from List A countries require a vaccination certificate and/or a negative PCR test result taken within 48 hours of arrival.

List B countries are those experiencing a spread of variants or the absence of precise COVID-19 case statistics. Travelers from those countries must obtain an exceptional authorization prior to travel, present a negative PCR test result taken less than 48 hours prior to arrival, and undergo a mandatory ten-day quarantine. For a full list of countries, consult the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website here. List A countries are all other UN member state countries that are not mentioned in List B.

Sea travel to Spain remains suspended.

Authorities stated that the lists and the policy will be under constant review, about every two weeks, and adapted should the epidemiological situation change domestically and internationally. Policies may therefore change on short notice.

Domestic Restrictions
Authorities have extended the existing nationwide health state of emergency (SoE) through July 10 to combat COVID-19 and its variants. The SoE grants the government authority to impose swift and proactive measures, including curfews and travel restrictions. Additionally, a nightly 23:00-04:30 curfew will remain in place until further notice. Stores, restaurants, and cafes can operate until 23:00 daily.

Nationwide, some businesses and services, including hotels, intercity transport, and restaurants, are allowed to open, albeit under certain operating capacity limitations. Authorities have banned private and public gatherings. Domestic flights and public transport, including train and bus services, are in operation.

For disease monitoring and tracking purposes, the government has classified certain areas in the country as Zone-1 or Zone-2 regions, based on the local level of COVID-19 activity. In Zone-1 regions, authorities have eased restrictions due to lower disease activity. Residents can leave their homes without special permits but must carry their national identity cards at all times. Certain commercial establishments, such as restaurants, cafes, hotels, beaches, and public baths, have reopened; all businesses must operate at 50 percent capacity and comply with the country's social distancing guidelines. Zone-2 areas are those where authorities have eased only some restrictions; individuals may not travel outside their municipalities of residence without a special permit.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

Resources

World Health Organization
Moroccan Ministry of Health (French)