فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
As many Moroccan women increasingly seek to travel to Schengen Area countries for various purposes such as tourism, studies, work, or visiting family, the topic of obtaining a Schengen visa raises several specific questions for them. This is due to administrative and cultural considerations that may sometimes differ from those faced by other visa applicants.
According to the European Commission, European consulates in Morocco registered more than 850,000 Schengen visa applications in 2024, with women submitting around 48% of these requests. However, some reports from human rights organizations indicate that women sometimes face particular challenges related to their travel reasons, financial proof, or even doubts about their intentions to return to Morocco.
One of the most common questions raised by Moroccan women is: “What supporting documents can strengthen my application?” In this regard, immigration experts advise preparing a comprehensive file that includes confirmed travel bookings, health insurance covering the entire duration of the stay, proof of social and professional ties in Morocco (such as employment contracts, business registration, or school certificates for children if applicable), and a recent bank statement showing financial stability.
Another frequently asked question is: “Does marital status affect the acceptance of the application?” According to consular staff, there are no official discriminatory criteria based on marital status. However, in practice, applications from single women or young women may undergo additional scrutiny regarding guarantees of return, especially if they are requesting long-term visas or planning to visit friends.
Regarding applications from mothers or married women, having documents that prove family stability and economic level is seen as a positive factor in the evaluation process. Immigration lawyer Sanae Oudghiri, in an interview with Euractiv, emphasizes that “proper preparation of the file and providing a clear narrative about the trip’s purpose and timeline greatly helps dispel any doubts consulates may have.”
Another common question is: “Can an interview be required?” The answer is yes, particularly for first-time visa applicants or if there are doubts with the consular services. During the interview, it is advised to speak with confidence and clarity about the purpose of the trip, emphasizing strong ties to Morocco.
It is important to note that a visa rejection does not necessarily mean a permanent denial. Every applicant has the right to know the reasons for the rejection and can appeal or submit a new application after improving their file. Human rights organizations, such as the Moroccan Association for Migrant Rights, argue that “enhancing transparency in consular procedures and ensuring the respect of women applicants’ rights remains an urgent demand in Morocco’s relations with the European Union.”
Given these challenges, seeking the services of trusted legal consultants has become an important step to avoid common mistakes and improve the chances of acceptance. Civil society organizations also emphasize the need to include a gender perspective in European consular policies to ensure fair and equal treatment for Moroccan women wishing to travel.
While the dream of traveling to Europe remains a goal for many women, a mindful and prepared approach to the visa application process remains a key factor in turning this dream into reality.
Source: Fes News Media
