فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
With the growing number of Schengen visa applications submitted by Moroccan citizens, a pressing question arises among members of the Moroccan diaspora and residents within the country: Are the requirements for obtaining a Schengen visa the same for everyone? In reality, the answer is more complex than it seems, as the details and evaluation criteria vary depending on the applicant’s place of residence and legal status.
At the level of required documents, the core list applies to all applicants—whether inside Morocco or abroad. These include a valid passport, passport-sized photos meeting specific standards, hotel reservations and flight tickets, travel health insurance covering the duration of the stay, and proof of sufficient financial means. However, differences emerge during the evaluation process. Applicants residing in Morocco often face stricter scrutiny compared to Moroccans living abroad.
According to recent statistics from Schengen Visa Info, the visa rejection rate for Moroccan applicants stood at approximately 23% in 2023—considered high relative to other countries. Some European consulates, such as those of Austria and the Netherlands, report higher refusal rates, while others like Switzerland and Lithuania show greater approval rates, highlighting disparities in how applications are processed.
On the other hand, Moroccans residing in European countries or the Gulf benefit from relatively different treatment, especially if they hold permanent residency or dual citizenship. In such cases, visa requests are evaluated based on their legal status in the country of residence, which generally increases the chances of approval—provided the applicant presents adequate proof of employment and income. For those living in countries like Saudi Arabia or Qatar, additional documents such as work certificates and detailed bank statements are often required.
In 2024, the European Commission proposed raising the Schengen visa fee from €80 to €90 for adults—a move criticized as an added burden, especially for applicants from middle-income countries like Morocco. Despite opposition, the increase is expected to be implemented in the coming months, further raising travel costs for applicants.
Meanwhile, media and diplomatic circles are raising questions about the future of mobility—especially with Morocco set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. European reports have suggested the possibility of a temporary visa waiver during the tournament to ease fan movement between the three countries, though a final decision is yet to be made.
Ultimately, having Moroccan nationality is not the sole determinant in the success of a Schengen visa application. Legal residency abroad, professional stability, and financial standing play a crucial role in the process. While the European dream remains legitimate for many, visa obstacles continue to be a major barrier for thousands of Moroccans—fueling ongoing debate about transparency and fairness in the visa system.
Source: Fes News Media
