فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Introduction: A Diplomatic and Sporting Gesture
On October 18, 2025, Chilean authorities announced the temporary cancellation of the visa requirement for Moroccan citizens, allowing them to enter Chile without prior visa procedures. This decision aims to facilitate the travel of Moroccan fans to Santiago to attend the U-20 World Cup final between Morocco and Argentina on October 19, 2025. The measure is a positive response to Morocco’s historic qualification for the final and partly reflects strengthened sports ties between the two countries, especially after Chile lost the hosting rights for the 2030 World Cup to Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.
Details of the Chilean Decision
Previously, Moroccans were required to apply for an electronic visa via the website tramites.minrel.gov.cl, which involved filling out a form, submitting documents such as a passport and hotel booking proof, and paying a fee of up to $50, with processing times of 5 to 10 days. Now, the temporary waiver allows entry with just a valid passport for at least six months, with the possibility of obtaining a visa on arrival at Arturo Merino Benítez Airport in Santiago if necessary. The decision covers the period from October 18 to October 21, 2025, and applies to all Moroccans without exceptions, subject to health and security entry requirements. The Chilean Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Minrel) described this step as “exceptional to support the sporting spirit.”
| Aspect | Previous Requirement | New Requirement (After Waiver) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa | Required online application | Not required; visa on arrival if needed |
| Required Documents | Passport, photo, hotel booking, fee | Valid passport (min. 6 months validity) |
| Processing Time | 5-10 days | Immediate upon arrival |
| Cost | $50 USD | Free or symbolic fee on arrival |
Role of Royal Air Maroc (RAM)
Royal Air Maroc promptly responded by scheduling two special flights from Casablanca (CMN) to Santiago (SCL): departing October 18 and returning October 20. Ticket prices start at 10,000 Moroccan dirhams per person (round trip), with a 20% discount for group bookings of more than five passengers. The airline encouraged travelers to visit their agencies or the website ram.ma to book tickets, emphasizing travel is possible without a visa. The flights include additional services such as Moroccan meals and logistical support for reaching the stadium. Over 500 tickets have been sold so far, with expectations of around 1,000 Moroccan fans attending.
Travel and Booking Procedures
Travel Steps: Ensure your passport is valid, book tickets via RAM’s website or app, and upon arrival at the Chilean airport, present documents to receive the temporary entry stamp.
Match Tickets: Available on the official website FIFA.com, priced between $20 and $100 USD, with early booking priority for Moroccan supporters.
Practical Tips: Book accommodation early in Santiago hotels, monitor health advisories from the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and purchase health insurance. Quick booking is advised due to long flights (approximately 20 hours with stops) and high accommodation costs ($200-$500 per night).
Sporting Context and Impact on the Team
This facilitation comes in the wake of Morocco’s historic achievement under-20 team reaching its first-ever final after beating France in a dramatic penalty shootout (5-4) in the semifinals, led by coach Mohamed Wahbi and star Yasser Zoubiri (3 goals). Facing Argentina, a record six-time champion known for a solid defense (only 2 goals conceded), the large crowd at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Pradanos (capacity 50,000) is expected to boost Moroccan morale, especially with support from Chilean star Alexis Sánchez, who invited his compatriots to cheer for Morocco. The match starts at 00:00 Moroccan time (20:00 local Santiago time) and will be broadcast live on Al Aoula and beIN Sports channels.
| Team | Goals Scored | Key Players | Tournament Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco | 9 | Yasser Zoubiri (3 goals) | First final; victories over Spain, USA |
| Argentina | 12 | Alejo Sarjo (4 goals) | 7 previous finals; solid defense |
Challenges and Outlook
Despite positive developments, travelers face challenges such as high accommodation costs and long flights, alongside the need to comply with stadium rules and health protocols. In the longer term, this decision may boost tourism and diplomatic relations between Morocco and Chile, especially with Chile’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. This initiative exemplifies sporting solidarity, reflecting Moroccan enthusiasm following the senior team’s achievements in the 2022 World Cup (fourth place) and the 2024 Olympics (bronze medal).
Conclusion
Chile’s visa waiver opens doors for strong fan support of the Moroccan team in its historic final, strengthening sporting ties between the two countries. With RAM flights scheduled and tickets available, thousands of fans anticipate an exciting night in Santiago, hoping for a crowning achievement worthy of the “Atlas Lions.”
