Morocco is tightening its entry rules ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, introducing a temporary electronic travel authorization for citizens of eight African countries.
From September 25, 2025, until January 25, 2026, travelers from Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Gabon, Niger, Senegal, Togo, and Tunisia will need to secure an AEVM, Morocco’s electronic travel authorization, before boarding a flight.
The measure is directly linked to Morocco’s preparations for the tournament, which runs from December 21 to January 18.
Moroccan authorities say the move is aimed at managing the huge influx of fans, ensuring safety, and streamlining entry into the country during what is expected to be one of the busiest sporting events Morocco has ever hosted.
The AEVM requirement is not entirely new. Morocco already operates the system for several visa-exempt countries, including Congo, Ghana, Guinea, and Mali.
What’s different now is that the list has been expanded temporarily to cover eight additional African countries just for the AFCON period.
Travelers will follow one of two application paths depending on why they are coming.
Fans holding match tickets must use the new “Yalla” mobile app, launched by Morocco and the Confederation of African Football.
The app doubles as a Fan ID and e-visa, giving supporters a one-stop platform for identification and travel clearance.
Others visiting for tourism, business, or family reasons will need to apply through the official website acces-maroc.ma, at least four days before departure.
Not everyone will be affected. Exemptions include diplomats, residents with valid Moroccan permits, passengers in transit who don’t leave the airport, people married to Moroccan nationals, and travelers over 55.
The rule will be enforced strictly, beginning at the airport check-in counters. Royal Air Maroc has already warned that passengers without authorization will not be allowed to board.
Moroccan officials say that the measure is strictly temporary, ending just a week after the tournament concludes. Until then, travelers are being urged to prepare early to avoid disruptions.
With AFCON set to bring tens of thousands of visitors, Morocco is betting that tighter entry controls will keep the focus on football and avoid logistical chaos.
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