Legal guide

Buying property in Morocco as a foreigner or Moroccan abroad

As a foreigner or a Moroccan living abroad, you can buy an apartment or house in Morocco. This guide sets out the steps, documents and purchase costs – so you start your purchase in Tangier well prepared.

The essentials

Six things you need to know

Foreigners may buy

Foreigners can freely buy homes and urban building land. Restrictions apply to agricultural land.

Titre foncier

A title deed registered with the Conservation Foncière offers the most security.

Notary

For a titled property the deed is usually drawn up by a notary, who also handles registration.

Convertible dirhams

Non-residents should pay through a convertible dirham account so they can repatriate funds later.

Purchase costs

Expect roughly 6 to 7% on top of the price for duties, registration and the notary.

Checks beforehand

Request a recent ownership certificate and check that there is no mortgage or seizure.

Step by step

How a purchase works

Search & viewings

We select properties that match your budget and goal – living there or renting out.

Legal checks

Ownership certificate, charges, permits and the syndic are reviewed.

Compromis de vente

A preliminary sales agreement with a deposit, often around 10% of the price.

Deed & registration

Signing the final deed at the notary and registration with the Conservation Foncière.

Costs

Which purchase costs apply?

On top of the price, the buyer usually pays:

Registration duties: in principle 4% for built property;
Registration with the Conservation Foncière: about 1.5% plus fixed fees;
Notary fees: about 1% plus VAT, and small administrative costs.

In total this often comes to 6 to 7% of the purchase price. Rates and temporary exemptions can change: always ask your notary for an exact calculation before signing. See also property prices in Tangier.

Security

Titre foncier or traditional deed?

Most apartments in Tangier have a titre foncier: a title registered with the land registry (ANCFCC). That is the safest situation, as ownership and any charges are public. Some older homes, especially in the medina, only have a traditional deed (melkia) drawn up by adouls. Buying is still possible but requires extra checks and possibly a registration procedure.

Living abroad? Everything can be done remotely with a notarised power of attorney. Read more in our guides buying property in Tangier and property management for owners abroad.

This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Always have your situation reviewed by a notary.

Frequently asked questions

Buying in Morocco: your questions

Can a foreigner buy a home in Morocco?

Yes. Foreigners can buy homes and urban building land. Restrictions apply only to agricultural land.

How much are the purchase costs?

Expect roughly 6 to 7% on top of the price, mainly registration duties, Conservation Foncière registration and notary fees. Your notary will make the exact calculation.

Do I have to be in Morocco for the signing?

Not necessarily. You can authorise someone through a notarised power of attorney.

How do I pay as a non-resident?

Through a convertible dirham account at a Moroccan bank. That way you can transfer the proceeds abroad again when you sell.

What is a titre foncier?

A title registered with the Moroccan land registry (ANCFCC). It is the strongest proof of ownership.

Also of interest

Buy a home in Tangier without the worries?

We guide you from the search to the deed – in your own language.