فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
For many Moroccans married to European Union citizens, obtaining a Schengen visa for family reunification seems like a logical and straightforward step. However, the administrative reality often proves more complicated, with varying requirements across consulates and an often confusing set of procedures.
A Special Legal Status… But Not Always Smooth
Legally speaking, Moroccan spouses of EU nationals benefit from a special status that allows them to apply for a family reunification visa—a category distinct from tourist or work visas. European laws support the freedom of movement for spouses, under the condition that:
- The marriage is legally recognized and documented.
- There are no legal or security obstacles.
- The couple can prove the genuineness of their relationship.
The Process Starts at the Consulate
In practice, many Moroccan applicants report that even securing a visa appointment can take weeks or months. Once scheduled, some consulates request extra documents not clearly listed in the official guidelines.
Salma M., a Moroccan married to a French citizen, told Fes News:
“I waited more than two months for an appointment, only to be asked for additional documents—even though my file was supposedly complete.”
On the other hand, Younes K., who applied through the Italian consulate, said he had a much smoother experience. He received his visa in just 10 days, after submitting a notarized and translated marriage certificate.
Proving the Marriage Is Real
Many consulates—especially in cases of recent marriages—require proof that the relationship is genuine, in an effort to prevent “marriages of convenience.” Applicants may be asked to provide:
- Personal photos,
- Screenshots of conversations,
- Or even attend interviews as a couple.
Politics and Policy: A Moving Target
Despite EU-level guidelines that promote streamlined procedures for family reunification, political concerns—especially over irregular migration—have led some member states to tighten controls, making the process inconsistent from one consulate to another.
According to SchengenVisaInfo (2024), the approval rate for Schengen visas for Moroccans married to EU citizens is higher than average, but still heavily dependent on the completeness and accuracy of the application.
Patience and Precision: Key to Success
Until the procedures are harmonized across consulates, Moroccan spouses seeking reunification should be prepared for administrative delays, and ensure their application is thorough and well-documented.
Because, as many have learned the hard way:
“Marrying a foreigner isn’t a guaranteed ticket to a visa—it’s the start of a long, sometimes unpredictable process.”
Source: Fes News Media
