When I first came to Morocco, I did not expect to stay. I arrived with a mission rather than a long-term plan. My goal was to support cannabis farming communities in Ketama as they prepared for the coming wave of legalization. Instead of a simple project, I discovered a world shaped by resilience, complexity, and people determined to improve life for themselves, their families, and their future.
During my holidays, I spent time in the Rif mountains, where I listened, learned, and helped whenever possible. I did not come as an expert. Instead, I came as someone who understood systems and recognized what a legal transition could involve. Over time, I met with associations, cooperative leaders, and even local government representatives. In nearly every conversation, the message was the same:
“If you really want to help, you need to apply for residency.”
Why I Needed the Carte de Séjour
At first, I dismissed the idea. I told myself that I was only volunteering. However, reality quickly challenged that assumption. Without residency, collaboration became difficult. Renting an apartment felt complicated. Opening a bank account proved impossible. In meetings, people often responded politely but hesitated to take me seriously.
Eventually, the pattern became clear. If I wanted to stay, contribute, and truly live something meaningful, I needed to become legal. Therefore, I decided to apply. Or at least, I tried to.
The Residency Maze
What many people do not explain is this: obtaining a carte de séjour is not impossible, but it can feel overwhelming when you navigate the process alone. The system includes forms in French, interviews in Arabic, and documents you often discover only after missing them. In addition, the process follows an unspoken rhythm that reveals itself only through experience and a few inevitable mistakes.
Although I had motivation and background knowledge, I lacked local know-how. As a result, progress came slowly. Fortunately, several people stepped in to translate, guide, and clarify what the process truly required. Step by step, document by document, and meeting by meeting, I moved forward. Eventually, I succeeded.
Why I Stayed
Receiving my residency card did more than allow me to remain in Morocco. It marked a turning point. I chose to invest, commit, and participate rather than observe from the outside.
With residency, doors opened in very practical ways. I could rent a long-term apartment, register for local services, and engage fully in daily life. More importantly, people recognized me as someone who intended to stay and contribute over time.
For Anyone Thinking About Staying
If you are in Morocco and considering applying for residency, know this: you are not alone. More importantly, you do not have to manage the process by yourself.
That understanding led me to create Welcome to Tanger City. I wanted to help others avoid the confusion I experienced. I also wanted to provide the kind of support I once needed. Above all, I wanted to show that building a life in Morocco is possible with the right guidance, commitment, and care.
Need help navigating the process or turning your Moroccan journey into something permanent? Contact us and let us walk the path together.
Contact us here and let’s walk the path together.
You can also visit the official website for VisitMorocco to learn more about Morocco.
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