فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
With the increasing desire of many Moroccan women to travel to Schengen Area countries for various purposes, including tourism, study, 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 applicants.
According to data from the European Commission, in 2024, Schengen consulates in Morocco recorded over 850,000 visa applications, with women accounting for approximately 48% of them. However, some reports from human rights organizations indicate that women sometimes face specific challenges related to the purpose of travel, financial evidence, or even doubts about their intention to return to the country.
Among the most common questions raised by Moroccan women is: “What supporting documents can strengthen my application?” In this context, immigration experts recommend 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 work contracts, business registrations, school certificates for children if applicable), and a recent bank statement showing financial solvency.
Another frequently asked question is: “Does my marital status affect the approval of my application?” According to consular staff, there are no official discriminatory criteria based on marital status. However, in practice, the applications of single or young women may undergo additional scrutiny regarding their intention to return, especially if they are applying for long-term visas or planning to visit friends.
As for applications from mothers or married women, having documents that prove family stability and economic status is considered a positive factor in the evaluation. Immigration lawyer Sana Al-Wadghiri, in a statement to EuroActive, emphasized that “good preparation of the application and presenting a clear narrative about the purpose of the trip and its schedule significantly helps dispel any doubts for consulates.”
Another common question is: “Can I be asked to attend an interview?” The answer is yes, especially in the case of a first-time visa application or if there are doubts with the consular authorities. During the interview, applicants are advised to speak confidently and clearly about the purpose of their travel and highlight their strong ties to Morocco.
It is also important to note that a visa refusal does not necessarily mean a permanent ban. Every applicant has the right to know the reasons for the refusal and can appeal administratively or submit a new application after improving their file. Human rights organizations, such as the Moroccan Association for Migrant Rights, argue that “enhancing the transparency of consular procedures and ensuring the respect of the rights of female visa applicants remains an urgent demand in Morocco’s relationship with the European Union.”
Given these challenges, seeking assistance from a trusted legal advisor has become an essential step to avoid common mistakes and improve chances of approval. Civil society organizations also stress the importance of incorporating gender considerations into European consular policies to ensure fair and equal treatment for Moroccan women seeking to travel.
While the dream of traveling to Europe remains a goal for many women, a thoughtful and prepared approach to the visa application process remains the key to turning that dream into reality.
Source: Fes News Media
