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The United States Consulate General Casablanca is now conducting interviews of applicants seeking all categories of immigrant visas as well as the following categories of nonimmigrant visas: C1/D (transit/crewmembers), E (treaty trader/investors), F (secondary school and college/university students), I (media professionals and journalists), J (physicians, government visitors, international visitor professors, research scholars, short-term research scholars, specialists, secondary school and college/university students), M (vocational students), O (individuals with extraordinary ability in Sciences, Arts, Education, Business or Athletics with a petition approved by USCIS), P (performing athletes, artists, or entertainers with a petition approved by USCIS), and R (religious workers with a petition approved by USCIS). The Consulate General is not conducting routine interviews for B1/B2 (business/tourist) visas at this time.

The Consulate General is also processing the following categories of nonimmigrant visas without an interview: A (diplomats and other foreign government officials), G (employees of designated international organizations and government officials participating in meetings of a designated international organization), and certain B1/B2 and C1/D renewals . Applicants under age 14 and over age 79 may qualify for an interview waiver even if they have not had a prior visa.

While the Consulate aims to process cases as soon as practicable, there is likely to be increased wait times for completing such services due to substantial backlogs. The MRV fee is valid and may be used to schedule an interview appointment in the country where it was purchased within one year of the date of payment. If you have an urgent matter and need to travel immediately, please follow the guidance provided at ustraveldocs.com , or call 212 520 485013 to request an emergency appointment.

The U.S. Embassy understands that many visa applicants have paid the visa application processing fee and are still waiting to schedule a visa appointment.  We are working diligently to restore all routine visa operations as quickly and safely as possible.  In the meantime, rest assured that the U.S. Embassy will extend the validity of your payment (known as the MRV fee) until September 30, 2022, to allow all applicants who were unable to schedule a visa appointment as a result of the suspension of routine consular operations an opportunity to schedule and/or attend a visa appointment with the already paid fee.  Please continue to monitor this site for information on when we will return to routine visa operations.

Effective January 26, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will require all air passengers entering the United States to present a negative COVID-19 test (A viral detection test for SARS-COV- 2 approved or authorized by the relevant national authority), taken within 72 hours of departure. Airlines must confirm the negative test result for all passengers before boarding. Airlines must deny boarding of passengers if they do not provide documentation of a negative test or recovery. This requirement is separate from the visa application process. All Presidential Proclamations restricting travel due to COVID-19 remain in place, and continue to apply to subject potential travelers regardless of their test results or vaccination status. Travelers holding a National Interest Exception also remain subject to all applicable pre-departure testing requirements. For more information on waivers to the testing requirement please click here .

Secretary Blinken, in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security, has temporarily expanded the ability of consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification. Previously, only those applicants whose nonimmigrant visa expired within 24 months were eligible for an interview waiver. The Secretary has temporarily extended the expiration period to 48 months. This policy is in effect until December 31, 2021. This change will allow consular officers to continue processing certain nonimmigrant visa applications while limiting the number of applicants who must appear at a consular section, thereby reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission to other applicants and consular staff. Travelers are encouraged to review the website of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for detailed information on what services are currently available as well as eligibility information and instructions on applying for a visa without an interview.

On January 20, 2021, President Biden signed a Presidential Proclamation titled “Ending Discriminatory Bans on Entry to the United States.”  This proclamation ends the travel restrictions under Presidential Proclamations 9645 and 9983 that had suspended entry into the United States of certain nationals, based on visa type, from Burma, Eritrea, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Libya, Nigeria, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Venezuela, and Yemen. Click here for additional information.

If your visa application is approved, you will need to leave your passport with the Consulate for one week. We will send the passport and visa to the ARAMEX office for pickup. Unexpected events may cause a delay in this processing. As always, we strongly recommend that you do not make any final plans such as purchasing tickets until you actually have the visa in your possession

President Biden rescinded Presidential Proclamation (PP) 10014, entitled “Proclamation Suspending Entry of Immigrants Who Present Risk to the U.S. Labor Market During the Economic Recovery Following the COVID-19 Outbreak,” on February 24, 2021. Immigrant visa applicants who had been affected by this proclamation should review the instructions here .

Presidential Proclamation 10052, which temporarily suspended the entry of certain H-1B, H-2B, J (for certain categories within the Exchange Visitor Program), and L nonimmigrants, expired on March 31, 2021. Visa applicants who have not yet been interviewed or scheduled for an interview will have their applications prioritized and processed in accordance with existing phased resumption of visa services guidance. Visa applicants who were previously refused visas due to the restrictions of Presidential Proclamation 10052 may reapply by submitting a new application including a new fee.

Entry of foreign nationals who were physically present within the following list of countries within 14 days prior to their entry or attempted entry into the United States is suspended, per Presidential Proclamations 9984, 9992,10143, and the Proclamation signed on April 30, 2021: •    India (applicable to nonimmigrants only); •    South Africa; •    Brazil; •    The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, excluding overseas territories outside of Europe; •    The Republic of Ireland; •    The 26 countries that comprise the Schengen Area (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland) •    The Islamic Republic of Iran; and •    The People’s Republic of China, not including the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau. There are certain exceptions to the suspension of entry, including exceptions for U.S. lawful permanent residents and certain family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, among other exceptions listed in the proclamations. If you reside in, have traveled recently to, or intend to transit or travel to the above list of countries prior to your planned trip to the United States, we recommend you postpone your visa interview appointment until 14 days subsequent to your departure from the subject country(ries). Additionally, if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, or believe you may have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, you are strongly encouraged to postpone your appointment by at least 14 days. Click here for more information.

On May 14, 2021, President Biden revoked Presidential Proclamation 9945, Suspension of Entry to Immigrants Who Will Financially Burden the United States Healthcare System.

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Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Morocco. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the Consulate General in Casablanca. This is the official visa information website of the U.S. Mission in Morocco.

Nonimmigrant Visa Information

  • Payment Options
  • DS-160 Information
  • Appointment Wait Times
  • Photos and Fingerprints
  • Visa Waiver Program
  • Security Regulations

Nonimmigrant Visa Application

  • Apply for a Visa
  • Pay My Visa Fee
  • Complete My DS-160
  • Schedule My Appointment
  • Change Document Delivery Address
  • Track & Retrieve My Passport
  • Apply for Expedited Visa Processing
  • Applying for a Visa Renewal
  • Application Pending Further Action

Immigrant Visa Information

  • Visa Information
  • Check My Immigrant Visa Petition Status
  • Immigrant Visa Wait Times
  • Select Document Delivery Address

Local Visa Programs

  • Business Executive Program
  • Group Appointments
  • Diplomatic and Government Officials
  • Visas for Children
  • Libyan Applicants
  • U.S. Consulates General
  • Passport/Visa Collection Locations
  • Document Drop-Off Locations
  • Bank Locations

General Information

  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Holidays and Closures
  • Rights and Protections
  • Helpful Links

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Department of State

  • usvisas.state.gov

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Apply for a U.S. Visa

  • Payment Options
  • DS-160 Information
  • Appointment Wait Times
  • Photos and Fingerprints
  • Visa Waiver Program
  • Security Regulations
  • Apply for a Visa
  • Pay My Visa Fee
  • Complete My DS-160
  • Schedule My Appointment
  • Change Document Delivery Address
  • Track & Retrieve My Passport
  • Apply for Expedited Visa Processing
  • Applying for a Visa Renewal
  • Application Refused under INA 221(g)
  • Visa Information
  • Check My Immigrant Visa Petition Status
  • Immigrant Visa Wait Times
  • Select Document Delivery Address
  • Business Executive Program
  • Group Appointments
  • Diplomatic and Government Officials
  • Visas for Children
  • Libyan Applicants
  • U.S. Consulates General
  • Passport/Visa Collection Locations
  • Document Drop-Off Locations
  • Bank Locations
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Holidays and Closures
  • Rights and Protections
  • Helpful Links

You are here: Home / Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

On this page:

FAQ - COVID19 Testing

Faq - general visa information, faq - visa refusals, faq - business/tourist visa, faq - work visa, faq - student visa, faq - exchange visitor visa, faq - transit/ship crew visa, faq - religious worker visa, faq - track my passport, faq - immigrant visas, faq - application profile.

  • Is the Department of State going to start requiring proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or test for visa applicants?

Q.1: Is the Department of State going to start requiring proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or test for visa applicants?

A: We have no changes to visa requirements to announce at this time. Information regarding required vaccinations for immigrant visa applicants may be found on this website .

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  • How long does my passport have to be valid in order to apply for a U. S. visa?
  • Do I qualify for the Visa Waiver Program?
  • What is the fee for ESTA and who has to pay it?
  • If I travel to the United States without ESTA, what happens?
  • If I am a third-country national living in Morocco can I apply for a nonimmigrant visa in Morocco?
  • Do all nonimmigrant visa applicants have to come to the U.S. Embassy for an interview?
  • I have a nonimmigrant visa that will expire soon and I would like to renew it. Do I need to go through the whole visa application process again?
  • My passport has expired, but the U.S. visa in it is still valid. Do I need to apply for a new visa?
  • I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the United States?
  • How can I extend my visa?
  • Must I submit my visa application form electronically?
  • What is "administrative processing?"
  • How do I read and understand my visa?
  • My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem with that?
  • What will happen when I enter the United States?
  • I did not turn in my I-94 when I left the United States. What should I do?
  • I have questions on submitting my DS-160 and printing the confirmation page. Where can I go for more information?

I changed my name. Is my U.S. visa with my old name still valid?

  • What information do I need to provideabour social media, while filling the DS-160 form?

Q.1 How long does my passport have to be valid in order to apply for a U. S. visa?

You must possess a passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions).

Q.2 Do I qualify for the Visa Waiver Program?

You qualify for the Visa Waiver Program if you are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country, possess a machine-readable passport, are traveling for temporary business or a visit of less than 90 days, meet other program requirements, and have obtained an authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .

You must be a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program-eligible country in order to use this program. Permanent residents of VWP-eligible countries do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program unless they are also citizens of VWP-eligible countries. We recommend you visit the Visa Waiver Program website before any travel to the United States to determine if you are eligible for the VWP.

Q.3 What is the fee for ESTA and who has to pay it?

ESTA registration is required for all travelers to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program . There is a US$14 fee for ESTA registration. The fee can be paid online using a debit card or any of the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. Third parties (travel agents, family members, etc.) can pay your ESTA fee for you if you do not have the correct type of credit card. If the ESTA registration is denied, the fee is only US$4.

Q.4 If I travel to the United States without ESTA, what happens?

Visa Waiver Program travelers who have not obtained approval through ESTA should expect to be denied boarding on any air carrier bound for the United States. If you are allowed to board, you can expect to encounter significant delays and possible denial of admission at the U.S. port of entry (i.e., arrival airport). ESTA registration usually only takes a few minutes to complete, authorization often arrives in seconds, and it is valid for two years, unless the traveler’s passport expires within that two-year period. In those cases, ESTA validity is limited to the passport’s validity.

Q.5 If I am a third-country national living in Morocco, can I apply for a nonimmigrant visa in Morocco?

Applicants are generally advised to apply in their country of nationality or residence. Any person who is legally present in Morocco may apply for a visa in Morocco. However, applicants should decide where to apply based on more than just convenience or delay in getting an appointment in their home district. One thing to consider, for example, is in which consular district the applicant can demonstrate the strongest ties.

There is no guarantee that a visa will be issued, nor is there a guarantee of processing time. If refused, there is no refund of the application fee.

Q.6 Do all nonimmigrant visa applicants have to come to the U.S. Embassy for an interview?

Yes, for most applicants. There are only a few exceptions to the interview requirement. The following applicants generally do not have to appear in person:

  • Applicants for A-1, A-2 (official travelers on central government business), C-2, C-3 (central government officials in transit on central government business) or G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4 (central government officials traveling in connection with an international organization, or employees of an international organization)
  • Children under the age of 14 if their parents have a valid nonimmigrant visa. .

Q.7 I have a nonimmigrant visa that will expire soon and I would like to renew it. Do I need to go through the whole visa application process again?

Each nonimmigrant visa application is a separate process. You must apply in the normal manner, even if you had a visa before and even if your current nonimmigrant visa is still valid.

Q.8 My passport has expired, but the U.S. visa in it is still valid. Do I need to apply for a new visa?

No.  If your visa is still valid you can travel to the United States with your two passports (old and new), as long as the visa is valid, not damaged, and is the appropriate type of visa required for your principal purpose of travel.  (Example: tourist visa, when your principal purpose of travel is tourism).  Also, the name and other personal data should be the same in both passports. Your nationality, as indicated in the new passport, must be the same as that shown in the passport bearing the visa.

Q.9 I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the United States?

If one of your nationalities is not American, you can apply using whichever nationality you prefer, but you must disclose all nationalities to the U.S. Embassy on your application form. U.S. citizens, even dual citizens/nationals, must enter and depart the United States using a U.S. passport.

Q.10 How can I extend my visa?

The validity of a visa cannot be extended regardless of its type. You must apply for a new visa.

Q.11 Must I submit my visa application form electronically?

Yes, you must complete the DS-160 online and bring a printed copy of the DS-160 confirmation page with you when you go for your interview at the Consulate.

Q.12 What is "administrative processing?"

Some visa applications require further administrative processing, which takes additional time after your interview with a consular officer. You are advised of this possibility when they apply. This web page on the Consular Affairs website has more information about administrative processing.

Q.13 How do I read and understand my visa?

As soon as you receive your visa, check to make sure all your personal information printed on the visa is correct. If any of the information on your visa does not match the information in your passport or is otherwise incorrect, please contact the issuing authority (i.e. the) immediately.

The expiration date of your visa is the last day you may use the visa to enter the United States. It does not indicate how long you may stay in the United States. Your stay is determined by the Department of Homeland Security at your port of entry. As long as you comply with the Department of Homeland Security decision on the conditions of your stay, you should have no problem.

Further information about interpreting your visa can be found at the Department of State's Consular Affairs website .

Q.14 My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem with that?

No. You may stay in the United States for the period of time and conditions authorized by the Department of Homeland Security officer when you arrived in the United States, which will be noted on the I-94, even if your visa expires during your stay. You can find more information here .

Q.15 What will happen when I enter the United States?

Your airline should give you a blank Customs Declaration form 6059B. Only one Customs Declaration is required for a family traveling together.

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States, but allows a foreign citizen coming from abroad to travel to a U.S. port of entry and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States, and determine how long a traveler may stay. At the port of entry, upon granting entry to the United States, the Customs and Border Protection officer will determine the length of stay permitted. Previously, travelers received a paper I-94 (record of admission) with this information. This process is now automated, with some exceptions. The traveler will be provided with a CBP admission stamp on their travel document that shows the date of admission, class of admission, and admitted-until date. Learn more on the CBP Website . If a traveler needs a copy of their I-94 for verification of alien registration, immigration status or employment authorization, it can be obtained from www.cbp.gov/I94 . You can review information about admission on the CBP Website.

Q.16 I did not turn in my I-94 when I left the United States. What should I do?

Previously, foreign travelers granted entry by CBP officials received a paper Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record). This process is now automated, with some exceptions.  If you received a paper Form I-94 or I-94W and failed to turn in your paper Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record to the commercial airline or CBP when you departed the U.S., see the CBP Website  for instructions. Do not send your paper Form I-94 or I-94W to the U.S. Embassy.

If you received an admissions stamp in your passport instead of a paper Form I-94 when granted entry, the I-94 record was created electronically, and a paper copy was not provided to you. CBP will record your departure from the U.S. electronically. Learn more on the CBP Website .

Q.17 I have questions on submitting my DS-160 and printing the confirmation page. Where can I go for more information?

Our call center is unable to provide assistance on the application form. Any inquiries on completing the DS-160 can be addressed on the following website .

Q.18 I changed my name. Is my U.S. visa with my old name still valid?

If your name has legally changed through marriage, divorce, or a court ordered name change, you will need to obtain a new passport.  Once you have a new passport, the Department of State recommends that you apply for a new U.S. visa to make it easier for you to travel to and from the United States.

Q.19 What information do I need to provide about social media, while filling the DS 160 form?

On May 31 2019, the Department of State updated its immigrant and non-immigrant visa application forms to request additional information, including social media identifiers, from most U.S. visa applicants worldwide. For more details please  click here .

  • What is Section 214(b)?
  • How can an applicant prove "strong ties?"
  • Is a denial under Section 214(b) permanent?
  • Who can influence the consular officer to reverse a decision?

The United States is an open society. Unlike many other countries, the United States does not impose internal controls on most visitors, such as registration with local authorities. Our immigration law requires consular officers to view every visa applicant as an intending immigrant until the applicant proves otherwise. In order to enjoy the privilege of unencumbered travel in the United States, you have a responsibility to prove you are going to return abroad before a visitor or student visa is issued.

Q.1 What Is Section 214(b)?

Section 214(b) is part of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). It states:

Every alien shall be presumed to be an immigrant until he establishes to the satisfaction of the consular officer, at the time of application for admission, that he is entitled to a nonimmigrant status .

Our consular officers have a difficult job. They must decide in a very short time if someone is qualified to receive a temporary visa. Most cases are decided after a brief interview and review of whatever evidence of ties an applicant presents. To qualify for a visitor or student visa, an applicant must meet the requirements of sections 101(a)(15)(B) or (F) of the INA respectively. Failure to do so will result in a refusal of a visa under INA 214(b). The most frequent basis for such a refusal concerns the requirement that the prospective visitor or student possess a residence abroad he or she has no intention of abandoning. Applicants prove the existence of such residence by demonstrating that they have ties abroad that would compel them to leave the United States at the end of the temporary stay. The law places this burden of proof on the applicant.

Q.2 How can an applicant prove "strong ties?"

Strong ties differ from country to country, city to city, and individual to individual. Some examples of ties can be a job, a house, a family, a bank account. "Ties" are the various aspects of your life that bind you to your country of residence: your possessions, employment, social and family relationships.

Imagine your own ties in the country where you live. Would a consular office of another country consider that you have a residence there that you do not intend to abandon? It is likely that the answer would be "yes" if you have a job, a family, if you own or rent a house or apartment, or if you have other commitments that would require you to return to your country at the conclusion of a visit abroad. Each person's situation is different.

U.S. consular officers are aware of this diversity. During the visa interview they look at each application individually and consider professional, social, cultural and other factors. In cases of younger applicants who may not have had an opportunity to form many ties, consular officers may look at the applicants specific intentions, family situations, and long-range plans and prospects within his or her country of residence. Each case is examined individually and is accorded every consideration under the law.

Q.3 Is a denial under Section 214(b) permanent?

No. The consular officer will reconsider a case if an applicant can show further convincing evidence of ties outside the United States. Unfortunately, some applicants will not qualify for a nonimmigrant visa, regardless of how many times they reapply, until their personal, professional, and financial circumstances change considerably.

An applicant refused under Section 214(b) should review carefully their situation and realistically evaluate their ties. They may write down on paper what qualifying ties they think they have which may not have been evaluated at the time of their interview with the consular officer. Also, if they have been refused, they should review what documents were submitted for the consul to consider. Applicants refused visas under section 214(b) may reapply for a visa. When they do, they will have to show further evidence of their ties or how their circumstances have changed since the time of the original application. It may help to answer the following questions before reapplying: (1) Did I explain my situation accurately? (2) Did the consular officer overlook something? (3) Is there any additional information I can present to establish my residence and strong ties abroad?

Applicants should also bear in mind that they will be charged a nonrefundable application fee each time they apply for a visa, regardless of whether a visa is issued.

Q.4 Who can influence the consular officer to reverse a decision?

Immigration law delegates the responsibility for issuance or refusal of visas to consular officers overseas. They have the final say on all visa cases. By regulation, the U.S. Department of State has authority to review consular decisions, but this authority is limited to the interpretation of law, as contrasted to determinations of facts. The question at issue in such denials, whether an applicant possesses the required residence abroad, is a factual one. Therefore, it falls exclusively within the authority of consular officers at our Foreign Service posts to resolve. An applicant can influence the post to change a prior visa denial only through the presentation of new convincing evidence of strong ties.

For information about visa ineligibilities other than 214(b), please visit the Department of State's Consular Affairs website .

  • How long can I stay in the United States on a tourist or business visa?
  • My visitor visa (B-1/B-2) expires after my intended date of arrival in the United States. Do I need to get a new visa before departure?
  • My U.S. visa will expire in the next 6 months. Do I need to apply for a new visa after my current visa expires or can I apply in advance?
  • I have an old passport with a valid visa, and a new passport.  My new passport has five of my family names listed, but the old one only has four.  Can I transfer my visa to the new passport, or can I travel with both passports?
  • My current U.S. visa was issued to me when I was working in my previous job. Now I have changed to a new job at a new company and my new employer wants me to attend a conference in the United States, scheduled for next month. Can I use the same visa or do I have to apply for a new visa?
  • My child is studying in the United States. Can I go live with him?

Q.1 How long can I stay in the United States on a tourist or business visa?

A U.S. nonimmigrant visa grants you permission to travel to a Port of Entry (airport/seaport) in the United States. When you arrive at your destination Port of Entry, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer who processes your entry will determine the length of time that you may remain in the country. You may travel to the Port of Entry during the validity of your nonimmigrant visa up to and including the last day the visa is valid. The visa duration does not determine the length of time that you may legally remain in the United States; only the Customs and Border Protection officer can decide this upon your arrival in the United States.

Q.2 My visitor visa (B-1/B-2) expires after my intended date of arrival in the United States. Do I need to get a new visa before departure?

You can arrive in the United States right up to the last date of validity indicated on the visa. The Customs and Border Protection officer on arrival determines the duration of your stay in the United States. Your visa can expire while you are still in the United States – just be sure that you do not overstay the period of time the officer grants.

Q.3 My U.S. visa will expire in the next 6 months. Do I need to apply for a new visa after my current visa expires or can I apply in advance?

You do not have to wait until your current visa expires. You can apply for a new visa even if your current visa is valid.

Q4: I have an old passport with a valid visa, and a new passport. My new passport has five of my family names listed, but the old one only has four.  Can I transfer my visa to the new passport, or can I travel with both passports?

U.S. visas cannot be transferred from one passport to another. You can travel to the United States with both passports, or you can apply for a new visa.  As long as the four names match from the old passport to the new passport, and are in the same order, you may travel with both passports.

Q.5 My current U.S. visa was issued to me when I was working in my previous job. Now I have changed to a new job at a new company and my new employer wants me to attend a conference in the United States, scheduled for next month. Can I use the same visa or do I have to apply for a new visa?

You can travel to the United States on the same visa as long as your visa is valid for business or pleasure.

Q.6 My child is studying in the United States. Can I go live with him?

While you can use your own B-1/B-2 visa (or travel under the Visa Waiver Program , if eligible) to visit your child, you may not live with your child unless you have your own immigrant, work, or student visa.

  • What is a petition?
  • Can I get a visa to do casual work?
  • Is there an age limit for applying for a temporary work visa?
  • Can my U.S.-based relative sponsor me for a work visa?
  • When can I enter the United States?
  • Who pays the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee and when do they pay it?

Q.1 What is a petition?

Before applying for a temporary worker visa at the U.S. Embassy you must have an approved Form I-129 , Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, from USCIS. This petition must be submitted by your prospective employer no earlier than 6 months prior to your proposed employment start date. Your employer should file the petition as soon as possible within the 6-month period to allow adequate time for processing. Once approved, your employer will be sent Form I-797, Notice of Action. For more information, visit the USCIS Temporary Workers webpage .

Note: To verify your petition's approval the U.S. Embassy needs your I-129 petition receipt number, along with your approved Form I-797. Please bring both of these to your interview.

Q.2 Can I get a visa to do casual work?

No. There is no visa that covers casual work. All applicants who plan to work in the United States must have an approved petition prior to their visa appointment.

Q.3 Is there an age limit for applying for a temporary work visa?

Q.4 can my u.s.-based relative sponsor me for a work visa.

No. Only your employer can sponsor you.

Q.5 When can I enter the United States?

You may not enter the United States until 10 days prior to your initial employment start date, as noted on your Form I-797 or on your offer of employment letter.

Q.6 Who pays the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee and when do they pay it?

An applicant for an L-1 visa traveling on a blanket petition must pay the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee . On individual L, H-1B and H-2B petitions, the U.S. petitioner pays the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee to USCIS when the petition is filed.

  • What is an I-20 and how do I get it?
  • How early should I apply for my student visa?
  • I received my visa, when should I travel?
  • Can a person on a visitor visa change his or her status to student while in the United States if he or she gains admission to a school and gets a Form I-20?
  • What if I receive an I-20 to a different school?
  • I was working as an H-1B and have now been admitted to a university as an F-1. Do I need to return to my country to apply for a student visa?
  • Can an F-1 student work in the United States?
  • What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?
  • If I previously studied on a student visa in the United States (and that visa is still valid), do I need a new F-1 visa to return to the United States to attend a different school?
  • When should I apply for student visa renewal?
  • Can I renew my student visa in the United States?
  • Can my brother/sister/mother/father accompany me to the United States as a dependent?
  • I’m also a U.S. citizen. Can I get a F-1 student visa and/or can my husband/wife and children receive a F-2 dependent visa?
  • Can I bring my maid on a visa with me to the United States if I’m going on a student visa?
  • What if my F-1 visa expires while I’m in the United States?
  • When must I renew my F-1 visa?
  • How long can I remain in the United States on my student visa after I complete my studies?
  • Can I enter the United States on my F-1 visa after the date of study listed on my I-20?
  • What if the Embassy/Consulate keeps my passport, but I don’t hear anything for weeks? Is the visa still being processed?
  • Can I go on vacation to Mexico and return to the United States to study on my F-1 student visa?
  • If I change schools, do I need to get a new visa?
  • My academic program is starting very soon but there are no more appointments available this month. What should I do?
  • It is three days before the start date on my I-20 and my visa is still being processed. What should I do?
  • I am already in the United States studying but my spouse would like to apply for a visa and join me here. What does she/he need to bring to the interview?
  • I am an umarried female student going to study in the United States. Can my father (or my brother) receive a student visa to accompany me to the United States?
  • Will my student visa still be valid if I do not travel when I originally intended to?
  • If I want to go earlier than 30 days prior to the start date of my I-20, can I go on my tourist visa (B1/B2), leave the United States by crossing an international border, then come back into the United States on my student visa?
  • If I transfer to another school or from English Language Study (ELS) to my university, how to I change the visa?
  • My dependent spouse on an F-2 visa is thinking about studying in the United States. Does he/she need a different visa?
  • Should I still come in for the visa interview if I don’t have my I-20 or SEVIS fee receipt?
  • I want to switch schools. What should I do?
  • My spouse and son/daughter are going with me. Will they have to pay the SEVIS fee too?

Q.1 What is an I-20 and how do I get it?

The Form I-20 is an official U.S. Government form, issued by a certified school, which a prospective nonimmigrant student must have in order to get an F-1 or M-1 visa. Form I-20 acts as proof-of-acceptance and contains the information necessary to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, apply for a visa or change visa status, and be admitted into the United States. The Form I-20 has the student's SEVIS identification number, which starts with the letter N and is followed by nine digits, on the upper right side directly above the barcode.

Q.2 How early should I apply for my student visa?

You are encouraged to apply for your nonimmigrant student visa as soon as you have your I-20. To ensure you get an early and timely date you may apply at any time. However, a student visa may be issued no more than 365 days prior to the start date mentioned on your I-20.

Q.3 I received my visa, when should I travel?

For your initial entry, you may only enter the United States within 30 days of the beginning of the course of study stated on your I-20, regardless of when your visa was issued.

Q.4 Can a person on a visitor visa change his or her status to student while in the United States if he or she gains admission to a school and gets a Form I-20?

Yes. In general, you may apply to change your nonimmigrant visa status if you were lawfully admitted to the United States with a nonimmigrant visa, if your nonimmigrant status remains valid, if you have not violated the conditions of your status, and you have not committed any actions that would make you ineligible. For more details, please visit the USCIS website .

Q.5 What if I receive an I-20 to a different school?

If you received an I-20 after scheduling your appointment, then you can inform the U.S. consular officer of the new I-20 at the time of the interview.

Q.6 I was working as an H-1B and have now been admitted to a university as an F-1. Do I need to return to my country to apply for a student visa?

No. Once you are in the United States, you do not need to apply for a new visa because the visa is only for entry into the United States. Check with USCIS to determine if you need to adjust status. If you leave the country, however, you'll need to apply for the student visa in order to re-enter the United States.

Q.7 Can an F-1 student work in the United States?

Full-time students on F visas may seek on-campus employment not to exceed 20 hours per week. After the first year in student status, an applicant may apply for employment off campus with authorization from USCIS. Please contact your student advisor for further information.

Q.8 What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) program requires schools and exchange programs to verify the enrollment status of all new and continuing foreign students and exchange visitors. Student visa applicants are required to pay a SEVIS fee before a visa can be issued. The SEVIS website has more details.

Q. 9 If I previously studied on a student visa in the United States (and that visa is still valid), do I need a new F-1 visa to return to the United States to attend a different school?

No, students may enter the United States on an unexpired, valid F-1 visa even if they are attending a new school, as long as they have a valid SEVIS status.  Students attending a new school should obtain a new I-20 and must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again.  Students only need to apply for a new visa if their visa has expired, been revoked or cancelled, or the student has changed visa categories.

Q. 10 When should I apply for student visa renewal?

As soon as possible, but the earliest we can issue a student visa is 365 days before the start of your studies as listed on your I-20.  You may not need a new visa (see question 1).  If you do, it’s never too early to schedule an appointment.  You can even schedule your appointment while you’re still in the United States.  You do not have to wait until you return to your home country  to schedule your visa interview.

Q. 11 Can I renew my student visa in the United States?

No. Visas can only be obtained at U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad.

Q. 12 Can my brother/sister/mother/father accompany me to the United States as a dependent?

Only your spouse and children (unmarried, under the age of 21) can accompany you to the United States as dependents, usually on F-2 visas.  If qualified, your close family members who don’t qualify for F-2 visas may be able to accompany you on a B1/B2 business/tourism visa.  However, their stay is generally restricted to six months and they would need to apply for an extension with the immigration service (USCIS) in the United States if they wish to stay longer.

Q. 13 I’m also a U.S. citizen. Can I get a F-1 student visa and/or can my husband/wife and children receive a F-2 dependent visa?

No, a U.S. citizen cannot receive a visa to the United States.  U.S. citizens must enter and depart the United States using their U.S. passports.  The spouse and children of a U.S. citizen may not receive F-2 visas.  As a U.S. citizen you may file a petition to begin the immigration process of acquiring permanent residency for your spouse and children.

Q. 14 Can I bring my maid on a visa with me to the United States if I’m going on a student visa?

No, we strongly discourage it.

Q. 15 What if my F-1 visa expires while I’m in the United States?

You are free to remain in the United States for the period of time indicated on your I-94.  For students, this is typically indicated as “duration of status” which means that you may remain in the United States for the length of your studies.  However, if you depart the United States after your visa expires, or if your visa expires while you are abroad, then you will need to apply for a new visa to re-enter the United States.

Q. 16 When must I renew my F-1 visa?

You must renew your F-1 visa if you decide to travel outside the U.S. and your current F-1 visa will expire before you re-enter the United States to continue your program. If this is the case, you will need to apply for another F-1 visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Q. 17 How long can I remain in the United States on my student visa after I complete my studies?

If you have completed your academic program and have not applied for another academic program, or post-graduation training, you can remain in the United States up to 60 days after your studies have ended.  During this time, you may travel around the United States, but you may not re-enter on your student visa once you have departed, even if it is within 60 days of completing your academic program.

Q. 18 Can I enter the United States on my F-1 visa after the date of study listed on my I-20?

For your initial entry, you cannot enter after the date of study listed on your I-20.  If the start date on your I-20 has already passed, you will need to get a new I-20 with a start date in the future.

Q. 19 What if the Embassy/Consulate keeps my passport, but I don’t hear anything for weeks? Is the visa still being processed?

While the majority of visas are processed within a few weeks, occasionally a visa will take longer to be issued.  While the processing is ongoing, you may take back your passport by sending an email, along with your passport number, to [email protected] .  When the processing is complete, we will contact you to send in your passport so that the visa may be printed

Q. 20 Can I go on vacation to Mexico and return to the United States to study on my F-1 student visa?

If you travel to a contiguous territory (including Canada and Mexico) and are there for less than 30 days, you do not need to have a valid F-1 visa to re-enter the United States. You must be in valid F-1 status, have a valid I-20, an unexpired passport and a valid I-94. Please contact the Mexican Embassy and Canadian Embassy for information on visa requirements for those countries for citizens of your country.

Q. 21 If I change schools, do I need to get a new visa?

If you change schools after you received your F-1 student visa, but before you make your first trip to the United States as a student, you will need to apply for a new visa. However, if you are changing schools after you have started your studies in the United States, you do not need to get a new visa. Please be sure to contact your student advisor at the old school to transfer your SEVIS registration to the new school. Before traveling to the United States to start a new school, please contact your student advisor to ensure that your SEVIS status is in initial or active status at the new school.

Q. 22 My academic program is starting very soon but there are no more appointments available this month. What should I do?

Please make an appointment for the earliest available date on the appointment website, even if it is after the date you need to be in the U.S. At the end of this process you will be able to request and submit an emergency appointment. You must explain briefly what your emergency is, give your SEVIS number and I-20 start-date, and give two or three dates that are convenient for your to come in for an interview.

Q. 23 It is three days before the start date on my I-20 and my visa is still being processed. What should I do?

Please contact your school and request an extension letter or a new I-20. Inform them that your visa is still being processed. When you receive your extension letter or new I-20, please send a copy to the Embassy/Consulate immediately. Please remember, visa processing cannot be expedited.

Q. 24 I am already in the United States studying but my spouse would like to apply for a visa and join me here. What does she/he need to bring to the interview?

In addition to the standard required documents, your spouse should bring an I-20 (for dependents), a copy of your F-1 student visa and a copy of your marriage certificate.

Q. 25 I am an umarried female student going to study in the United States. Can my father (or my brother) receive a student visa to accompany me to the United States?

For F-1 students studying in the United States only children under 21 and spouses qualify for accompanying F-2 status.  Other family members who wish to accompany the student must apply for a Business and Tourism (B1/B2) visa . This means that the family member will not be able to live in the United States for the full term of your F-1 visa, and must exit the country within the time given by the Customs and Border Protection officer. Most visitors on a B1/B2 visa are admitted for six months, after which they must depart or seek an extension from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).

Q. 26 Will my student visa still be valid if I do not travel when I originally intended to?

You must be in the United States by the start date on your I-20 for your visa to be valid.  If it is close enough to your start date you may show a letter of extension from your school at the Port of Entry or a new I-20 with a new start date.  You will need a new visa if the new I-20 has a different SEVIS number, or if you have missed the original start date by more than 4 months.

Q. 27 If I want to go earlier than 30 days prior to the start date of my I-20, can I go on my tourist visa (B1/B2), leave the United States by crossing an international border, then come back into the United States on my student visa?

Q. 28.if i transfer to another school or from english language study (els) to my university, how to i change the visa.

You usually do not need to change the visa.  Make sure you have an updated and correct I-20 and that your designated school officials in both schools keep the SEVIS system updated.

Q.29. My dependent spouse on an F-2 visa is thinking about studying in the United States. Does he/she need a different visa?

If they are studying fewer than 18 hours a week, they do not need to change status. If they are studying full time or more than 18 hours, they will need an I-20 and a change of status to F-1 by filing form I-539 with USCIS. This can be done in the United States.  However, if they leave the United States they will need a new visa to re-enter and should apply through standard procedures.

Q.30 Should I still come in for the visa interview if I don’t have my I-20 or SEVIS fee receipt?

Yes, but doing so is likely to cause delays as it’s harder to conduct the visa interview without the I-20/SEVIS fee receipt.  Both are necessary for the visa to be issued.  Be prepared to answer questions about possible schools you'd like to attend and what your long term educational plans are.  Once you obtain your I-20 and SEVIS fee receipt, send them in as soon as possible the visa cannot be printed without them.

Q.31 I want to switch schools. What should I do?

Before the interview: either bring in the I-20 for your new school, or inform the consular officer about the change during the interview.

After the interview: If the visa is not printed, inform the consular office and send the I-20 to us. If the visa is printed: check the SEVIS number. If it is the same, you do not need a new visa. If the SEVIS number is different, you will need a new visa and must reapply.

Q.32 My spouse and son/daughter are going with me. Will they have to pay the SEVIS fee too?

No, but they do need their own I-20 showing dependent status so they can get F-2 visas. Contact your school for this.

  • What is the "two-year rule?"
  • Can the two-year rule be waived?

Q.1 I received my visa, when should I travel?

Exchange visitors may only enter the United States within 30 days of the beginning of the program, as stated on your Form DS-2019, regardless of when your visa was issued.

Q.2 What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) program requires schools and exchange programs to verify the enrollment status of all new and continuing foreign students and exchange visitors. Exchange visitor visa applicants are required to pay a SEVIS fee before a visa can be issued. The SEVIS website has more details.

Q.3 What is the "two-year rule?"

The "two-year rule" is the common term used for a section of U.S. immigration law which requires many exchange visitors to return to their home countries and be physically present there for at least two years after the conclusion of their exchange visit before they can return to the U.S. under certain types of visas, specifically H-1, L-1, K-1 and immigrant visas. It is important to note that only a preliminary finding of whether the two-year rule applies to you is made on your DS-2019 when your J-1 visa is issued. The final decision will be made only if you later choose to apply for an H-1, L-1, K-1, or immigrant visa.

J-1 visa holders subject to the two-year rule are not permitted to remain in the United States and apply for an adjustment/change of status to a prohibited nonimmigrant status (for example, from a J-1 visa to an H-1 visa) or to apply for legal permanent resident status (Green Card) without first returning home for two years or obtaining an approved waiver. Whether you are subject to the two-year rule is determined by a number of factors, including your source of funding and your country's "Skills List." It is not determined by the amount of time you spend in the United States.

Q.4 Can the two-year rule be waived?

Possibly. Only the Department of State's Visa Office can grant waivers of the two-year rule. The Visa Office is also the final authority on whether you are subject to the rule, regardless of what is annotated in your passport. If you are subject to the two-year rule, you may be able to obtain a waiver . Even if you are subject to the two-year rule, you may still qualify for a tourist visa or any other nonimmigrant visa except those noted above.

Q.1 I plan to stop in the United States for a day and take a flight to another country on the next day. Do I need to apply for C-1 visa or a B-1/B-2 visa?

If you seek layover privileges for purposes other than transiting through the United States, such as to visit friends or for sightseeing, then you must qualify for and obtain the type of visa required for that purpose, such as a B-2 visa.

Q.1 I am applying for a religious worker visa, but do not have an approved petition. I have been to the United States previously with an R-1 visa and was not required to have the petition. Can I apply for an R-1 visa without the petition since I had an R-1 visa in the past?

The requirement for an approved petition went into effect November 28, 2008. All applicants applying for an R-1 nonimmigrant visa are required to have an approved petition from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For more information, please visit the USCIS website .

  • How will I get my passport back after the interview?
  • What types of ID are acceptable as proof-of-identity ?
  • Can someone besides me pick up or receive delivery of my passport ?
  • When will I receive my passport after visa is processed ?
  • How and where can I check my passport status ?
  • What if I need my passport back for urgent travel ?

Q.1 How will I get my passport back after the interview?

An email or SMS notification will be sent to the email address or mobile phone you provided in your contact record when your passport is ready for pick up.  You must pick up your passport at the courier location you selected at the time you scheduled your interview. If you want to change this location, you may do so until midnight on the day of your appointment. If you are planning urgent travel, the courier location closest to the location of your interview may result in a faster pick-up time. The cost of the courier service is included in the visa application fee. If your passport is not collected from the pick-up location within 15 business days, it will be returned as undeliverable to the Embassy/Consulate General which adjudicated your application.

Q.2 What types of ID are acceptable as proof-of-identity?

In order to ensure that your passport and visa are not given to an unauthorized person, you must present a government-issued photo ID for identification when you collect your passport. You must also sign for all documents handed over to you by the courier.

Q.3 Can someone besides me pick up or receive delivery of my passport?

Yes. However, your representative - even in case of family members - must present the following in order to collect your passport:

If a representative is collecting your passport from the document collection office on your behalf - even in case of family members - the representative must present:

  • Their own original government-issued photo ID for identification
  • A photocopy of your government-issued photo ID
  • A letter of authority, signed by you, authorizing your representative to collect your passport. The letter of authority must contain the following information:
  • Your representative's full name as shown on their government-issued photo ID

If the applicant is under the age of 16, the following documents are required:

  • The family book or birth certificate of the child(ren)
  • An original, signed letter of authority from either of the applicant's parents
  • A clear photocopy of the government-issued photo ID belonging to the parent who signed the applicant's letter of authority
  • The representative's original government-issued photo ID

Note: In case of a group/family, a single letter of authority with the required information for each of the applicants will be accepted.

Q.4 When will I receive my passport after visa is processed?

Processing time varies due to individual circumstances and other special requirements at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate. You will be notified when your passpor is ready for pickup.  You may pick up the passport from the location you chose at the time of appointment scheduling.

Q.5 How and where can I check my passport status?

You can check the status of your application at any time online on  this page . In order to track the status of your passport’s courier delivery please go to  this page  or send an email with your passport number in the Subject line to [email protected]  or contact the  Visa Information Service . If you chose to retrieve your passport from a pick-up location, you will receive an auto-notification by email to inform you that your passport is ready for pick-up. Please ensure that the email address indicated in your online profile is accurate.

Q.6 What if I need my passport back for urgent travel?

If you need to receive your passport back for urgent travel, please contact our call center with a request for temporary return of your passport. If the temporary return of your passport is approved, you will receive an email with instructions on how to collect your passport from the consular section.

  • Immigrant visa applicant did not receive a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to take along on the plane to the United States
  • Process to determine if applicant's visa was issued under the new paperless process
  • Why are some people asked to hand sealed envelops at U.S. Port of entry and some are not?

Q.1 Immigrant visa applicant did not receive a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to take along on the plane to the United States.

The Department of State has begun electronic processing of some immigrant visa applications.  If either the National Visa Center or the embassy/consulate requires that you electronically submit your civil and financial supporting documents via the CEAC portal, then your visa was issued under the new electronic process. Unless specifically informed by the embassy/consulate which interviewed you and issued the visa, you are NOT required to hand-carry a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to present at the U.S. port of entry. Be assured that your documents were transmitted electronically from the Department of State to the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (DHS/CBP), the agency that inspects all immigrants entering into the country. When you arrive at Immigration Control at the U.S. port of entry will have access to all of the information required to process your entry into the United States.  This new electronic process will streamline the processing of your immigrant visa application and entry to the United States.

Q.2 Process to determine if applicant's visa was issued under the new paperles process.

We request you to look at your visa.  If you do not need a packet of papers, your visa will have an annotation by the bottom right corner of your picture that says “IV DOCS in CCD”.  This indicates that your immigrant visa was issued under the new paperless process.

Q.3 Why are some people asked to hand sealed envelope to the U.S.Port of Entry & some are not?

That the electronic processing of some immigrant visa applications began in 2018. To convert all the different types of immigrant visas to electronic processing will take several years.  Until the process is complete, some immigrant visa holders will still need to hand-carry a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to the U.S. Port of Entry.  These individuals will NOT have the annotation “IV DOCS in CCD” printed in the lower right hand corner of their visa.

  • How do I reset my password?
  • What should I do if I move to another country after I have registered my profile on ustraveldocs.com and did not apply yet for my visa, or if I want to submit a new visa application in another country than my previous application?

Q.1 How do I reset my password?

Click the Forgot Your Password? link at the bottom of this web page . Enter your email address in the Username field and click Submit . The email address you type must match the email address you used when you began your visa application. A new password will be sent to your email address.

Note: The email with your new password will come from [email protected] . Some email applications have rules which filter unknown senders into a spam or junk mail folder. If you have not received your email notification, please look for the message in your junk and spam email folders.

Q.2 What should I do if I move to another country after I have registered my profile on ustraveldocs.com and did not apply yet for my visa, or if I want to submit a new visa application in another country than my previous application?

You do not need to create another profile if it is also serviced by CGI. You can simply contact us through the Contact Us section on this website and share your passport number, UID or email address so we can retrieve and update your profile with the new country where you plan to apply for your US Visa.

If you are applying in a country that is not covered by CGI, you will be invited to create a new profile. As a reminder, MRV fee receipts paid in one country are non-transferable to the other country.

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Apply for a U.S. Visa

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You are here: Home / Applying for a Visa Renewal

Renewals and Interview Waivers

On this page:

Applicants Under Age 14 or Over Age 80

  • Visa renewals
  • Academic Visas (F, M, or J visas)

How to Apply for Visa Renewal Service

  • Provide All Your Passports
  • General Information

Although the Consulate has resumed routine interviews for nonimmigrant visas, demand for visas is high and it may be difficult for applicants to obtain an interview as soon as they would like.  Fortunately, in some cases, it may be possible for qualified applicants to obtain a visa without an in-person interview. 

Interviews may be waived for visa applicants under the age 14 (if a parent has a valid visa) and for adults over 80 years of age.  In addition, until December 31, 2021, Consular Officers may waive interviews for qualified applicants renewing a visa in the same classification that expired less than 48 months ago and for applicants seeking academic (F, M, or J) visas.

It is also important to know that your visa may still be valid if the passport it is in expires. In such cases, you can travel to the United States with your old passport containing a valid visa and your new, unexpired passport.

Applicants under age 14 and over age 80 may qualify for an interview waiver even if they have not had a prior visa.  To qualify for an interview waiver, a child must have at least one parent with a valid visa.

Visa Renewals

  To facilitate the renewal process for nonimmigrant visas, the Consular Section accepts renewal applications for some visa applicants without requiring an in-person interview. In many cases, applicants do not need to appear at the Embassy at all. 

However, to be able to qualify for the renewal process, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You are a Moroccan national or you are a legal resident of Morocco;
  • You are physically present in Morocco;
  • Your visa is either unexpired or expired less than 48 months ago;
  • You are applying for another visa of the same type as your previous visa;
  • You were not refused a visa at your last interview;
  • Your prior visa was not lost, stolen or revoked and you can submit your passport with your prior visa;
  • You have complied with the terms of your previous visa;
  • You did not answer “YES” to any question in Security and Background of the DS-160 application form;

If during the evaluation of your application the consular officer needs more information to decide if you are eligible for the visa, an interview may be required. In such cases, your passport will be returned to you and your application will remain pending until you have had an opportunity to appear for an interview.

It may take up to one month before your request for an interview waiver is processed.  Please do not contact the Consulate General to inquire about the status of your request unless it has been more than four weeks since you submitted your passport to Aramex.

Academic Visas (F, M or J visas)

Applicants seeking F, M, or J academic visas may be eligible for an interview waiver if the following requirements are met:

  • You are a Moroccan national or you are a legal resident of Morocco.
  • You are physically present in Morocco.
  • You were previously issued a U.S. visa and have not been denied a U.S. visa since or you are a citizen of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program and will be applying with a passport from that country.
  • If you previously had a U.S. visa, that visa was not lost, stolen, or revoked.
  • You have never submitted an ESTA application that was denied.
  • You did not answer “YES” to any question in Security and Background of the DS-160 application form.

Step 1: DS-160 Application

Determine your visa type by reading  Common Nonimmigrant Visas . Each visa type explains the qualifications and application items. Choose the visa type that applies to your situation.

Be sure to also review the  Visa Waiver Program . If your country of citizenship participates in the Visa Waiver Program, you do not need to apply for a visa if you are traveling for business or pleasure and will only be staying in the Unites States for 90 days or less.

Complete the  Non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form.

Step 2:  Update Profile

Log-in  to our online applicant system to create a profile and select courier service options (if available).  Please ensure all your personal and contact information on your www.ustraveldocs.com profile is correct otherwise there will be delays in your visa application processing. 

As you go through the process you will answer the interview waiver questions which will evaluate your eligibility to apply for a visa without an interview. You will also be prompted to select the courier location where you will dropoff and pickup your documents. 

Step 3:  Make Payment

You will be prompted to pay the visa application (MRV) fee using the payment options available in your country of application. 

Step 4:  Print Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter

After you enter your MRV fee payment receipt on your profile you will have access to Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter if you qualify to renew your visa. Otherwise you will be directed to the interview appointment calendar. 

Gather all the required documents listed on the interview wavier confirmation letter, including your DS-160 confirmation page, MRV fee receipt, current and previous passports, photo, and a letter explaining your travel purpose and itinerary. Depending on the visa category, you may require additional documentation and a reciprocity fee. Please refer to your  specific visa category page  for additional required documents.

Step 5:  Go to Courier Location

Go to one of the courier locations specified   here with your required documents.

Step 6:  Delivery to Consulate

The courier will deliver your documents to the U.S. Embassy.

Step 7:  Passport Retrieval

At the end of the visa adjudication process, the U.S. Embassy will return your documents and your passport to you at the chosen document delivery address in your profile. You will receive an email and SMS once your documents are ready for pickup at the courier location you selected. 

Important Note:  The use of the mail-in service does not guarantee visa issuance.  In some cases, applicants may still be required to appear for a visa interview.

For general information about applying for a visa, please click here .

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U.S. Consulate General Casablanca, Morocco - CSB

Please follow the steps below before your immigrant visa interview at the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca, Morocco.

Step 1: Register your document delivery address online

You must register your appointment and document delivery address online. This gives us with the information we need to return your passport to you after your interview. Registration is free. Click the “Register” button below to register.

If you want to cancel or reschedule your appointment, you will be able to do so after you register your appointment.

Register >>

Step 2: Get a medical exam in Morocco

As soon as you receive your appointment date, you must schedule a medical exam in Morocco. Click the “Medical Exam Instructions” button below for a list of designated panel physicians in Morocco. Please schedule and attend a medical exam with one of these physicians before your interview.

Medical Exam Instructions >>

Step 3: Complete your pre-interview checklist

It is important that you bring all required original documents and one photocopy of each document to your interview. We’ve created a checklist that will tell you what to bring.  Please print the checklist below and bring it to your interview along with the listed documents.

Pre-Interview Checklist >>

Step 4: Review interview guidelines

Read our interview guidelines to learn about any special actions that you need to take before your visa interview.

Interview Guidelines >>

Medical Exam Instructions

All immigrant visa applicants, regardless of age, require a medical examination prior to the issuance of a visa. Only a physician accredited by the U.S. Consulate can perform this exam. It is your responsibility to schedule a medical exam with one of the approved physicians listed below before your visa interview appointment at the consulate. Medical examination results from other physicians will not be accepted. All panel physicians listed speak French, Arabic, and English . Please do not schedule an appointment with more than one panel physician.

Approved Physicians

Dr. Janah Abdelaziz 104 Blvd. Abdelmoumen 3eme Etage, Apt: 8 Casablanca Tel: +212 522-23-01-01 Email: [email protected]

Dr. Mounia Berrada Belkhayat  15, Rue Kadi lass - Maarif Casablanca Tel: +212 522-25-14-34 Email:   [email protected]

Dr. Nezha EL Fihri 38,Blvd Bir Anzarane Maarif Casablanca Tel: +212 522-99-33-35 Email:  [email protected]

Items to bring to your medical examination

You should bring the following items to your medical exam:

  • Your visa interview appointment letter,
  • Your passport,
  • Four (4) recently taken passport-sized color photographs,
  • A copy of your immunization records.
  • DS-260 confirmation page

You must pay all medical examination fees, including x-ray and blood test fees, directly to the examining physician. The current cost of the physical exam is 700.00 Dirhams for adults and 500.00 Dirhams for children under 15 years of age. Costs for other medical tests and vaccinations are extra.

During the Medical Exam

The medical exam will include a medical history review; physical and mental health examination; chest X-ray, gonorrhea test, and blood tests (for applicants 15 years of age or older); and administration of any necessary vaccinations. The United States also requires tuberculosis (TB) testing for all applicants two years of age and older. Please be prepared to discuss your medical history, medications you are taking, and current treatments you are undergoing. More information on general medical requirements for U.S. immigrants is available via  travel.state.gov .  The medical examination should be completed one week prior to the interview.

U.S. immigration law requires immigrant visa applicants to obtain certain vaccinations prior to the issuance of a visa. Current immigrant visa vaccination requirements are available via  cdc.gov .

After the Medical Exam

When your examination is completed, the doctor will either provide you with exam results in a sealed envelope or send them directly to the U.S. Embassy. IF GIVEN AN ENVELOPE TO CARRY TO YOUR INTERVIEW, DO NOT OPEN THIS ENVELOPE. Instead, bring it to your visa interview. Any x-rays taken will be given to you. You DO NOT need to bring the x-rays to your visa interview unless you suffer from tuberculosis (TB). However, you must carry the x-rays with you when you travel to the United States for the first time. The medical report must be less than six months old when you enter the United States as an immigrant.

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Pre-interview Checklist

Please use the list below to determine the items that you must bring to the immigrant visa interview.

Any documents that are not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.  

  • A copy of your NVC interview letter (except Diversity Visa, fiancé(e), adoption, or asylee/refugee applicants).
  • Unexpired passport valid for six (6) months beyond your intended date of entry to the United States and a photocopy of the biographic page (where your name and photo are located).
  • Two (2) color photographs of each person applying for a visa (5 cm x 5 cm, or 2 inches x 2 inches). Please review our online photo requirements .
  • Confirmation page from the Form DS-260 Application for an Immigrant Visa you submitted online at ceac.state.gov/iv .
  • An original birth certificate and a photocopy.
  • Medical examination results in a sealed envelope (if the physician gives you these results) .
  • Police certificates for all applicants over the age of 16, a certified English translation, and a photocopy.  Certificates from your current country of residence must have been issued within the past two years.  Please review the requirements under the Police Certificates tab via travel.state.gov .  Non-citizen residents of Morocco and those under the age of 18 may submit a court certificate if a Moroccan police certificate is unavailable.
  • Original or certified copies of birth certificates for all children of the principal applicant (even if the child is not accompanying the applicant).
  • If you have ever been married :  An original marriage certificate for each marriage, a certified English translation, and a photocopy of each certificate.  For any marriages that have been terminated by death, divorce, or dissolution, please provide an original or certified copy of the death, divorce, or dissolution certificate, a certified English translation, and a photocopy of each certificate. 

For family-based visa applications:

  • If the sponsor filed a joint tax return with a spouse, please provide evidence that the sponsor’s individual income exceeds the income requirement (i.e., W-2s, 1099s, or proof of assets) or provide an I864A signed by the sponsor’s spouse.  Sponsors who are self-employed should provide every 1040 schedule submitted with their return (i.e., the Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business), Schedule D (Capital Gains), Schedule E (Supplemental Income or Loss), or Schedule F (Profit or Loss from Farming)).
  • If the sponsor is relying upon another household member’s income or assets, please provide a signed I-864A from the household member.
  • If the sponsor was not required to file a federal income tax return under U.S. tax law, submit a typed or printed explanation including evidence of the exemption and how the sponsor qualified for it.
  • Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status for any joint sponsor.  
  • Proof of the U.S. petitioner’s domicile.  To qualify as a sponsor, the petitioner must be domiciled in the United States.  If the petitioner is not physically present in the United States, you must provide proof that the petitioner is temporarily abroad but has maintained his or her domicile in the United States or that the petitioner intends to establish domicile in the United States no later than the date of the intending immigrant’s admission to the United States.   Please see the FAQs concerning domicile.

If you are seeking a marriage-based visa and the petitioner was previously married, please provide an original or certified copy of the divorce, dissolution, or death certificate for each prior marriage.

If the petitioner is your son, daughter, or sibling, please provide an original or certified copy of the petitioner’s birth certificate.

If you are the petitioner’s stepchild:  The original marriage certificate of the petitioner and your biological parent, a certified English translation, and a photocopy along with divorce records for any previous marriages of either parent.

Evidence of the relationship between the petitioner and visa applicant (photos, texts, chat records, etc.).

For employment-based visa applications:  

Letter from your U.S. employer dated less than one month before the interview.

For applicants where a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) relative filed the Form I-140 petition or where such a relative has a significant ownership interest in the entity that filed the petition, that relative must complete Form I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act, on behalf of the applicant.

Documents from other countries :  Instructions for obtaining civil documents from other countries can be found via travel.state.gov .

Translations:  All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.  The translation must include a statement signed by the translator stating that:

  • The translation is accurate, and
  • The translator is competent to translate.

You can find a list of translators in Morocco by clicking on the link below.  This list is provided as a courtesy and should not be viewed as an endorsement of any particular translator.   You may use a translator who is not on the list as long as he or she is competent to translate.

Interview Guidelines

Sending documents to the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca

All documents not in English must be accompanied by an English translation. Translations must be certified by a competent and registered translator.

List of Translators >>

If you need to send us any documents, please DO NOT mail them to us directly. Instead, visit ustraveldocs.com and ask for information on courier services.

Rescheduling or Cancelling Your Interview

If you are unable to attend your appointment, please send a written request for a new appointment to [email protected] . We will send you a new appointment date as soon as possible. There may be a significant delay before the next available appointment, so please attempt to attend the date already assigned. For some family-based and employment preference visa categories, a visa became available within the month you have been scheduled by NVC. DV applicants should be aware that visas are numerically limited and must be issued by September 30 of the program year. There is no guarantee that a visa will still be available on the date of your rescheduled interview. Please carefully consult the Visa Bulletin before you request to reschedule your interview.

Please note: Rescheduling is only possible on a date after your assigned appointment.

Security Screening Procedures

All visitors to the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca must follow certain security procedures.  Any visitor who declines to be screened by U.S. Consulate security personnel will be unable to enter the consulate.  To avoid delaying your entry and that of those in line behind you, please bring only what is required for your interview.   All visitors to the Consulate General are required to wear a mask.  You may not bring electronic devices with you into the interview.  Mobile phones must be checked.  Other electronics must remain outside of the building.

Accompanying Persons

Only the following persons may accompany a visa applicant to their interview:

  • Interpreter: Applicants may bring ONE interpreter if they do not speak English, Arabic or French well enough to participate in an interview.
  • Special Needs Visitors: Applicants may bring ONE person to help if they are elderly, disabled, or a minor child.
  • Your sponsor/petitioner is not required to attend the interview. 

Immigrant Visa Fees

If you have not paid all required fees to either the National Visa Center or via the appointment website, please be prepared to pay these fees on the day of your interview. All fees may be paid in either U.S. dollars or the Moroccan dirham equivalent. We accept cash and credit cards only. Please note that if you are found ineligible to receive a visa, the application fee cannot be refunded. A complete list of fees can be found via  travel.state.gov .

Travel Plans

If your visa is approved, we will keep your passport at the consulate while we prepare your immigration packet and print a visa for your passport. We will return your passport to you later via courier services only (see Step 1 ). If you must travel within Morocco while your passport is still with us, please make sure you have a valid picture ID other than your passport.

After Your Visa Interview

A consular officer can make a decision on a visa application only after reviewing the formal application and interviewing the applicant. There is no guarantee that you will receive a visa. Do not sell your house, car or property, resign from your job or make non-refundable flight or other travel arrangements until you have received your immigrant visa.

If more information is needed

Sometimes a consular officer is unable to make a decision on a visa application because he/she needs to review additional documents or the case requires further administrative processing. When additional documents are requested, the consular officer will give you a refusal letter that asks you to submit additional documents. The letter will include instructions on how to send those documents to the consulate.

Administrative processing takes additional time after the interview. Most administrative processing is resolved within 60 days. However, the timing varies based on the circumstances of each case. Before inquiring about the status of administrative processing, please wait at least 60 days after your interview.

What happens after visa approval

Passport, Visa, and Sealed Immigrant Packet – We will place your immigrant visa on a page in your passport. Please review your visa to make sure there are no spelling errors. We will also give you a sealed envelope containing documents that you must give to U.S. immigration authorities when you arrive in the United States for the first time. Do not open this envelope. You must carry it with you. Do not put it in your checked luggage. If you receive X-rays during your medical examination, carry those with you and give them to the U.S. immigration authorities.

USCIS Immigrant Fee – All individuals who are issued immigrant visas overseas must pay an Immigrant Fee to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) prior to traveling to the United States. This fee is for processing your residency status and printing your Permanent Resident Card. The only people exempt from paying this fee are: children entering the United States under the Hague Process, returning residents, and people traveling on a fiancé(e) (K) visa.

When You Should Travel – You must enter the United States before the expiration date on your visa. Your visa cannot be extended and all fees are nonrefundable. The principal applicant must enter before or at the same time as other family members with visas. Unless they are eligible for benefits under the Child Status Protection Act, children who are issued a visa before turning 21 years of age must enter the United States before their 21st birthday to avoid losing their immigrant status.

Getting a Green Card – Your Form I-551 Permanent Resident Card, also known as a green card, will be automatically mailed to the address in the United States that you write in your visa application form. This is a very important document that proves you have permission to reside in the United States. If you plan to travel outside the U.S. before your green card arrives:  please consult USCIS’s and CBP’s websites for rules about what documents you need to re-enter the country. We also recommend you check with the airline to ensure you are in compliance with their rules. Once your card is issued, you should not stay outside of the United States for more than one year. If you do, you will lose your status as a Lawful Permanent Resident.

Children’s Issues – In the United States, children are required to have certain vaccinations before they can enroll in school. We recommend that you bring your child’s complete vaccination records with you to the United States. If your child is adopted, you have full custody as a result of a divorce, or you share custody with another parent, you should bring a copy of all applicable adoption or custody papers from the authoritative court in your home country. You will need these papers (translated into English) for issues such as school enrollment, medical care, and eventual citizenship.

Information for New Immigrants – Please visit the USCIS web page for helpful information on moving to the United States. You can read their publication “Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants” online.

Diversity Visa Applicants - Additional Information

If you are interviewing for a Diversity Visa (DV), all of the above instructions apply to you. Please schedule and attend a medical examination prior to your visa interview; enroll in the required courier service ; and gather the required documents.

Below are additional instructions that apply only to DV applicants.

Bring to your DV interview

In addition to the documents listed on the Pre-Interview Checklist in this package, DV applicants should also bring the following items to your visa interview:

  • Appointment information printed from the “Entrant Status Check” on the E-DV website .
  • Original documents showing that you have either a qualifying high school education such as the baccalaureate degree OR two (2) years of qualifying work experience in the five (5) years immediately prior to application (for the principal applicant only; more information is available via  travel.state.gov ) and a photocopy. Applicants who earned a bac libre should provide original or certified transcripts or other evidence of school attendance.
  • An original marriage certificate for your spouse and original birth certificates for your spouse and any children accompanying you, sworn English translation(s), and a photocopy.
  • Payment of the $330 Diversity Visa Application Fee for each visa applicant.

Review your DV Lottery entry

Prior to your visa interview, we recommend that you review the data on your initial E-DV entry. On your initial E-DV application, you must have correctly entered your marital status. If you are legally married you must have listed your spouse, even if you are currently separated from him/her (unless your spouse is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident).

Additionally, you must have listed ALL of your living children who are unmarried and under 21 years old (unless they are already U.S. citizens or lawful permanent resdents). This includes your natural children, your spouse’s children, or children you have formally adopted in accordance with the laws of your country.

Failure to have listed an existing spouse or minor child at the time of your entry in the Diversity Visa lottery will result in the denial of your visa and visas for your family. Any fees paid to the U.S. government in support of your visa application(s) are nonrefundable. If you failed to include a child who had already been born, or a spouse to whom you were married when you entered the lottery, you should not proceed with the visa application. You can review the eligibility requirements via  travel.state.gov .

Last Updated: 2/28/2023

Contact Information

8, Blvd. Moulay Youssef Casablanca 20250

Other Links

Diversity Visa Instructions After Your Interview Frequently Asked Questions Where to get Civil Documents

Interview Preparation Video

Interview Preparation Video

External Link

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Morocco e-Visa Requirements

Morocco eligible countries and entry documents required.

Certain nationalities must have a visa to travel to Morocco. If you meet the Morocco e-Visa requirements , you can apply online for your visa in just a few minutes.

The online visa for Morocco is the most popular option, as it is quick and easy to obtain. The process is 100% online , saving you time and effort.

This page explains the requirements for the Morocco e-Visa. If you meet these criteria, you can apply using the simple online form .

Do I Need a Visa for Morocco?

Citizens of certain nations can enter Morocco without a visa. These travelers are part of Morocco’a Visa Waiver Program .

All other travelers need a visa or travel authorization to visit Morocco . If you’re not visa-exempt then you will need to apply for a travel permit before your trip.

Travelers to Morocco fall into 1 of the following categories :

  • Visa-exempt
  • Visa required
  • eTA required

morocco-visa-conditions

1. Visa-exempt

Passport holders from certain countries can enter Morocco without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. There are currently around 70 nations who are part of this policy.

2. Visa required

All other nationalities must have a valid visa for Morocco. These travelers cannot enter the country without a visa.

3. eTA required

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa for Morocco, but they must have an Electronic Travel Authorization: Republic of Congo, Guinea, Mali .

Fortunately, citizens of many countries are eligible to apply for the Moroccan e-Visa. This process is completely electronic, avoiding the need to go in person to an embassy or consulate.

Who is eligible for a Morocco e-Visa?

Over 100 nationalities can apply for an online visa for Morocco.

Most travelers must have a passport from an eligible country, plus a residence permit or visa from :

  • Canada (residence permit only)
  • Czech Republic
  • Israel (residence permit only)
  • Japan (residence permit only)
  • Liechtenstein
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • United States

If you are a citizen of Azerbaijan, Benin, India, Israel, Guatemala, Jordan, and Thailand , then you can apply using just your passport.

Please check the list below to see if you can apply for the Morocco online visa :

  • Afghanistan
  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Bosnia-Herzegovina
  • British Indian Ocean Territory
  • Burkina Faso
  • Central African Republic
  • El Salvador
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Guinea-Bissau
  • North Korea
  • Marshall Islands
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Sierra Leone
  • Solomon Islands
  • South Africa
  • South Sudan
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Turkmenistan
  • Vatican City

Show More >>

Required Documents for the Morocco e-Visa

You only need a few basic items to apply for the online visa. Before you can start the application process you’ll need to have the following:

  • Residency card or visa (if applicable)
  • Photograph of applicant
  • Email address
  • Debit or credit card

Your passport must meet the requirements mentioned below . You will also need your residency card or visa for your application, unless your passport is from Azerbaijan, India, Israel, Jordan, Guatemala, or Thailand.

Your email address must be an active account which you check regularly. All updates are sent to this address, including your approved e-Visa.

You will need a debit or credit card which is authorized for online payments to pay the Morocco e-Visa processing fee. This is the final stage of the application process.

Passport, visa, and residence permit requirements for a Morocco e-Visa

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the date you intend to enter Morocco.

If you’re applying with a residence permit from an eligible country, it must be valid for at least 180 days .

If you have a visa from an eligible country, it must be valid for at least 90 days from the date you intend to arrive in Morocco.

Providing digital copies of your documents

Thanks to the 100% online application process, you do not need to present any paper copies of your documents to apply for the Morocco e-Visa.

All you need to provide is an image or scan of your documents when you complete the online form. It is not necessary to present the original document in person at a government office.

Conditions to Travel to Morocco

To travel to Morocco from overseas, you must meet the requirements to enter Morocco . If you reach the Moroccan border without the correct documents you will be refused entry.

All passengers must have the following to enter Morocco:

  • Visa (unless visa-exempt)

Should I print my Morocco e-Visa?

Your approved online visa for Morocco is sent to your email address in PDF format . You can then download the visa onto any mobile device and print a paper copy.

To avoid any complications, it’s advisable to carry both a paper and digital copy of the visa.

Do you need a visa to visit Morocco?

Sally Kirby

Sep 14, 2023 • 3 min read

Wide shot of smiling couple holding hands while sitting by pool in courtyard of luxury hotel while on vacation in Marrakesh, Morocco © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Find out whether you can visit Morocco visa-free and for how long © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

Travelers from around 70 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the European Union and the United Kingdom, can travel to Morocco as tourists without a visa. The maximum stay is 90 days, which starts on the date of your entry stamp, not three calendar months.

For a complete list of visa-exempt countries and visa durations, check the website of the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country. Some countries, such as Hong Kong and the Maldives are limited to 30 days of visa-free travel, so check whether there are any special conditions for traveling on your passport.

Passports of all travelers must have a spare page for immigration entry stamps and six months of validity after your entry into Morocco. Regardless of where you arrive in Morocco, check that your passport is stamped on arrival because this date entry and unique number will be referenced during your stay by accommodations and immigration officials. 

Who needs a visa to visit Morocco?

Travelers who do require a tourist visa can apply for an e-visa and pay online. The e-visa is also known as Autorisation Électronique de Voyage au Maroc (AEVM). Check your eligibility and the document requirements and apply, pay and track your visa application using the Access Maroc website .

There are two e-visa options for Morocco. An E-visa Standard costs Dh770 and takes three business days to process. An E-visa Express costs Dh1100 and takes one business day to process. Both e-visas are valid 180 days from the issue date and allow visits to Morocco for up to 30 days.

Visa extension requests can be made at central police stations in Morocco, although they are not always guaranteed. Exiting the country and returning for a further 90 days in the same year is possible.

If you're planning on taking a non-Moroccan vehicle into the country on the ferry from Spain, it is worth noting that vehicles are allowed in Morocco for six months in a calendar year. The driver’s tourist visa is governed by the rules of their passport, so if you are entitled to a 90-day visa-free stay, you will either have to extend your visa or leave the country and go back. Your car can stay for six months, but you cannot unless an extension is granted.

Does Morocco have a digital nomad visa?

Morocco does not have a working holiday or digital nomad visa. If you wish to stay in the country for more than 90 days, visit a central police station and ask about a carte de sejour , a residency card required to live and work legally in Morocco.

The process involves quite a lot of paperwork, including copies of your birth certificate, a police record check and recent bank statements. Your first carte de sejour is valid for one year. You need to reapply for three years and then five years and then 10 years and so on. Eligibility, fees and criteria depend on which category you are applying in. Some require a work contract, a business, a spouse, a property or retirement.

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USCIS Guide

Find Answers to Immigration Questions

Visa Requirements to Visit Morocco As A U.S. Citizen

Do i need a visa to visit morocco as a u.s. citizen.

Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Morocco. Visas may be obtained at the nearest Moroccan Embassy or Consulate.

What Types of Visas Can I Get for Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

U.S. citizens traveling to Morocco will need a visa to enter the country. The type of visa you need will depend on the length and purpose of your trip. U.S. citizens can apply for a tourist visa, business visa, student visa, or family/friend visit visa. All visas can be obtained from the Moroccan embassy or consulate in the United States.

Do I Need an Visa Interview to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes, you will need a visa to visit Morocco as a U.S. citizen. You will need to apply for a visa at the nearest Moroccan consulate and attend an in-person interview as part of the application process.

What are the Steps to Apply for a Visa to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

1. Complete the online application form: Visit the website of the Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C. to complete the online visa application form. Application fees must be paid through the website.

2. Submit supporting documents: The applicant must submit a valid passport, a passport-size photograph, proof of residence, proof of travel plans (hotel bookings or flight reservations), and proof of financial stability (bank statements or income tax documents).

3. Schedule an appointment: After submitting the online application form and supporting documents, schedule an in-person appointment at the Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C., to provide biometric information.

4. Attend the appointment: Attend the appointment at the Embassy of Morocco and provide biometric information, such as fingerprint scans and digital photographs.

5. Pay the visa fee: Pay the appropriate visa fee prior to departure for Morocco.

6. Receive the visa: After attending the appointment and paying the visa fee, receive a visa sticker in your passport from the Embassy of Morocco.

Are There Special Instructions to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

Yes, there are special instructions for U.S. citizens who wish to visit Morocco. All U.S. citizens must obtain a visa prior to traveling to Morocco, which can be obtained from the Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C., or one of Morocco’s consulates in the United States. The visa must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned date of departure from Morocco. Travelers must have a valid passport with at least two blank pages, and should have at least six months of validity remaining after their planned departure date. Additionally, all travelers should be aware that they may be required to present proof of a round-trip ticket and sufficient funds to cover their stay in Morocco.

What is the Visa Fee to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

U.S. citizens are required to pay a fee of $33 when applying for a visa to visit Morocco.

What is the Processing Time to Get a Visa to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

The processing time for a visa to visit Morocco as a U.S. citizen is typically 3-4 weeks.

What are the Required Documents to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

1. A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.

2. A Moroccan visa, which can be obtained from the nearest Moroccan Embassy or Consulate.

3. A valid return ticket.

4. Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Morocco.

5. Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or rental agreement.

6. Evidence of an onward or return journey, such as a second return ticket to the U.S. or other country.

What to Do in Case of a Visa Denial to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

If you have been denied a visa to visit Morocco as a U.S. citizen, the best thing to do is to contact the Moroccan consulate in the United States for more information. The consulate can provide information about why your application was denied, what other documents or information may be needed and how to resubmit the application. Additionally, you may contact the U.S. Department of State for additional guidance.

What are the Frequently Asked Visa Questions and Answers to Visit Morocco as a U.S. Citizen?

1. What type of visa do I need to visit Morocco as a U.S. citizen?

Answer: A U.S. citizen requires a tourist visa to visit Morocco.

2. How long can I stay in Morocco with a tourist visa?

Answer: U.S. citizens can stay in Morocco for up to 90 days with a tourist visa.

3. Do I need a valid passport to apply for a Moroccan tourist visa?

Answer: Yes, you must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining at the time of application for the Moroccan tourist visa.

4. What documents do I need to apply for a Moroccan tourist visa?

Answer: You will need to submit documents such as your passport, 2 passport-sized photos, proof of a return ticket, evidence of sufficient funds, and a completed application form. Depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, you may also need to provide additional documents such as an employment letter or hotel reservation confirmation.

5. How much does it cost to get a Moroccan tourist visa?

Answer: The cost of the Moroccan tourist visa is $39 USD.

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COMMENTS

  1. Visas

    Visas. The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. As a visa applicant, you will need to establish that you meet all requirements to receive the category of visa for which you are applying. See our Directory of Visa Categories on usvisas.state.gov to determine ...

  2. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Contact Us; FAQ; All receipts for payment of Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fees issued before October 1, 2022, expired September 30, 2023 ... Making travel plans before your visa is issued . ... Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Morocco.

  3. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    How to Apply. Step 1: DS-160 Application. Determine your visa type by reading Common Nonimmigrant Visas. Each visa type explains the qualifications and application items. Choose the visa type that applies to your situation. Be sure to also review the Visa Waiver Program.

  4. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Step 4. Visit the Consulate on the date and time of your visa interview. You must bring a printed copy of your appointment letter, your DS-160 confirmation page, one photograph taken within the last six months and your current and all old passports. Applications without all of these items will not be accepted.

  5. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    To schedule a nonimmigrant visa appointment, you must have the following information and documents available: A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions.

  6. Visitor Visa

    Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both ...

  7. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    This proclamation ends the travel restrictions under Presidential Proclamations 9645 and 9983 that had suspended entry into the United States of certain nationals, based on visa type, from Burma, Eritrea, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Libya, Nigeria, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Venezuela, and Yemen. Click here for additional information.

  8. FAQ

    The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries* to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less, when they meet all requirements. Are You Eligible? Travel & Tourism in the U.S. Visit the U.S.! ... U.S. Citizens with emergencies (dialing from Morocco), please call (212) 05-37-63-72-00.

  9. U.S. Visas

    A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler's passport, a travel document issued by the traveler's country of citizenship. Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the ...

  10. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    A new DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form and associated barcode must be submitted with each and every new visa application. A DS-160 and barcode from a prior visa interview will be rejected and result in a delay of your visa application. More Information. Any inquiries on completing the DS-160 can be addressed on the following ...

  11. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States, but allows a foreign citizen coming from abroad to travel to a U.S. port of entry and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States, and ...

  12. Morocco International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  13. Nonimmigrant Visas

    The U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca, Morocco provides visa services to those seeking to enter the United States for a temporary period and for those wishing to take up indefinite or permanent residence in the United States. Please visit our Global Support Services (GSS) website for complete information on applying for a nonimmigrant U.S ...

  14. Applying for a Visa Renewal

    How to Apply for Visa Renewal Service. Step 1: DS-160 Application. Determine your visa type by reading Common Nonimmigrant Visas. Each visa type explains the qualifications and application items. Choose the visa type that applies to your situation.

  15. US tourist visa for Moroccan citizens in 2024

    Moroccan citizens must obtain a visa before travelling to US. US B1/B2 Visa is required for Moroccan citizens. With this tourist visa stay is usually long with a period of 180 days and visa expires in upto 10 years. Applicant is required to be present when applying for US tourist visa. A total of 11 documents are required for applying US tourist visa.

  16. Visa Requirements to Visit the U.S. from Morocco

    Two passport-style photos. 4. Valid/current visa fee payment receipt. 5. Evidence of financial support (such as bank statements, payslips, or tax returns) 6. Evidence of strong ties to Morocco (such as proof of employment, education records, or property ownership) 7. A valid travel itinerary.

  17. U.S. Consulate General Casablanca, Morocco

    The only people exempt from paying this fee are: children entering the United States under the Hague Process, returning residents, and people traveling on a fiancé(e) (K) visa. When You Should Travel - You must enter the United States before the expiration date on your visa. Your visa cannot be extended and all fees are nonrefundable.

  18. Traveling to US from Morocco in 2024: Passport, Visa Requirements

    Funds of US$10,000 or more must be declared. Non-Residents. Tobacco and alcohol may only be imported by travellers 21 years and over. Tobacco limit. 200 cigarettes; 100 cigars. Bringing alcohol. 1 litre of alcohol. Other Goods. Visitors travelling to the US for over 72 hours have an allowance of up to US$100 of dutiable items intended as gifts ...

  19. Morocco Visa Policy for US Travelers

    Yes, US residence permit holders need to apply for a Morocco e-Visa if they wish to visit Morocco. The e-Visa for Morocco is mandatory for foreign nationals residing in the US with a permit valid for at least 180 days. The e-Visa is designed for single entry and permits a stay up to 30 days for either tourism or business purposes.

  20. Morocco e-Visa Requirements and Entry Documents

    Certain nationalities must have a visa to travel to Morocco. If you meet the Morocco e-Visa requirements, you can apply online for your visa in just a few minutes.. The online visa for Morocco is the most popular option, as it is quick and easy to obtain. The process is 100% online, saving you time and effort.. This page explains the requirements for the Morocco e-Visa.

  21. Visa requirements for visiting Morocco

    Travelers from around 70 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the European Union and the United Kingdom, can travel to Morocco as tourists without a visa. The maximum stay is 90 days, which starts on the date of your entry stamp, not three calendar months.

  22. Visa Requirements to Visit Morocco As A U.S. Citizen

    1. A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity. 2. A Moroccan visa, which can be obtained from the nearest Moroccan Embassy or Consulate. 3. A valid return ticket. 4. Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Morocco. 5.

  23. Morocco Visa Requirements

    If you have a Morocco Tourist Visa which you would like to extend beyond 90 days, you must request a Visa Extension at the nearest Police Precinct in Morocco. Applying for a Morocco Visa in India. ... Applying for a Morocco Visa From the USA. If you are a legal resident of the US, and you are a national of a visa-required country, then you may ...