Buying property in Morocco
Advice for British people buying property in Morocco, including information on legal advice, fraud, residence requirements, complaints and more.
Buying and Selling Property in Morocco
Introduction
This guide sets out essential information for British nationals wanting to buy property in Morocco, including advice on legal advice, fraud, residence requirements, complaints and more. It should be read together with the How to buy property abroad guide
We are unable to provide any guidance on individual property purchases apart from the information and links listed below. See our information on what consulates can and cannot do
The following information is offered as a guideline only. We strongly recommend that you check any points of law with the local authorities or consult a lawyer/notary.
Can a British Citizen buy/own a property in Morocco?
Yes. You can purchase any immovable property registered for non-agricultural use and located within an urban agglomeration. We advise that you avoid purchasing the following types of property:
- Any property subject to seizure even conservatory
- Any mortgaged property
- Any property subject to a long-term lease
- Any property subject to expropriation proceedings
All undivided property. Under no circumstances agree to purchase a property in someone else’s name. Do not sign any papers if you do not understand what is written.
Title Deeds
Before agreeing to buy any property make sure that you can obtain the title deeds, as without these you do not officially own the property regardless of how much money you have paid. You must appoint a notary.
Property in Morocco is either registered, in the process of registration, or not registered. It is also either agricultural property, inside a rural or urban agglomeration or between the two. A property for residential and professional use, or good for industrial and commercial use. It can also be a property in several lots, a property in joint possession, or simply a property assigned to a person in several forms for a use defined by law (this is the case of collective land) or by convention including long-term rental.
Due to these different set of categories in property, it can be very difficult for a British national to take the precautions that Moroccan law provides to assure the buyer of all his rights. However, Moroccan land law remains conditioned by the legal regime of immovable property.
- If the property is registered or in the process of being registered, the applicable law is made up of several Dahirs (laws) published in the BO it is Dahir 12 // 1913 (registration) June 2, 1915 legislation applicable to registered buildings and other laws.
- If it is an unregistered item, reference is made to the sources of Muslim law and to the D.O.C (Moroccan Civil Code)
A notary or a lawyer is better placed to help you fulfill the purchase of a property.
How to pay
The secure way of payment is transferring the money through the bank – you will need to open a convertible account. Your appointed notary will advise you on this.
How do I find a notary to deal with my purchase?
A list can be found on our website. It is wise to choose one who is fluent in your language so that you understand all the legalities.
How do I go about buying a property?
Once you have decided to buy a property in Morocco, it is important to choose a notary. If you have one arranged from the beginning it will be easier. It is also advisable to engage an independent lawyer to check over all documents. When you have found a property that you like you will need to make a verbal offer. Once this has been accepted you may be asked to sign a preliminary contract, which is legally binding, and pay a deposit, this should be done with your notary.
Selling a property
If the property has increased in price you will be subject to capital gains tax on the profit. It is always advisable to use a notary/lawyer.
Renting your property
You can rent out your property but will be subject to pay tax on a percentage of the rental. The Finance Law in Morocco for the year 2018 established the obligation to declare and pay income tax electronically for natural persons with income other than professional. For more information on taxation in Morocco, please visit the taxes office in Morocco