Morocco: Authorities extend health state of emergency through April 30 to combat COVID-19 /update 94

Event

Authorities in Morocco have extended the existing health state of emergency (SoE) through April 30 to combat COVID-19. The SoE grants the government authority to impose proactive measures, including curfews and travel restrictions.

Domestic Measures
Under existing directives, proof of vaccination (i.e., a vaccine pass) is necessary to enter most public and private spaces, including hotels, restaurants, cafes, gyms, public baths, grocery stores, and public transport. Public baths, swimming pools, and sports facilities can only operate at 50 percent capacity. Public and private gatherings are limited to 50 people. Wearing a facemask is mandatory in public spaces. Individuals who violate COVID-19-related domestic measures may face fines.

International Travel Restrictions
International commercial air travel to and from the country resumed Feb. 7. Authorities initially banned all direct flights in late November following the emergence of the COVID-19 Omicron variant. All travelers to Morocco will be required to provide a vaccine pass and a negative PCR test result to enter the country.

The vaccine pass must indicate inoculation with two vaccine doses, with the second dose administered at least 14 days before travel. The negative PCR test result must be from a test taken less than 48 hours before boarding. Travelers will be subject to rapid antigen testing upon arrival, and some randomly selected travelers may also be subject to PCR testing upon arrival. Furthermore, authorities may subject some randomly selected travelers to additional PCR testing after 48 hours following their arrival in the country. The pre-travel PCR test requirement does not apply to children under the age of six; additionally, children under the age of 12 do not need to provide a vaccine pass. Children between the ages of six and 18 must present a negative PCR test taken within less than 48 hours of arrival to the kingdom.

Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 must isolate at their residence or hotel; the length of the quarantine period is unclear. Authorities will transfer travelers with severe COVID-19 symptoms to a hospital.

Maritime travel between France and Morocco remains suspended.

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.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Moroccan Ministry of Health (French)