France Confirms Expanding Visa Services to Morocco's Southern Provinces
Rabat – France has confirmed the expansion of its visa services to Laayoune, the largest city in Morocco's southern provinces, in a move that many see as a significant political gesture of support for Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara.
The announcement was made by French Ambassador Christophe Lecourtier during the official inauguration of a new TLS visa center in Casablanca today.
For the first time, residents of Laayoune and the wider Sahara region will be able to apply for French visas directly from their city. This development is expected to make the visa process more accessible and less costly for applicants in the south.
'In line with the position expressed by the President of the Republic during his official visit last October, visa application services have been expanded directly to Laayoune, in partnership with TLS. Residents of this region will now benefit from the same services,' the French Embassy in Morocco said in a press release.
The move comes as France doubles down on its support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, reinforcing a position made clear in July 2023 when Macron expressed full backing for Morocco's Autonomy Plan as the most serious and credible solution to the conflict.
A few days ago, the French government reiterated its position in favor of Morocco during Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita's visit to Paris.
The newly built 3,500 m² visa center in Casablanca can handle between 800 and 1,200 visitors per day. It includes upgraded facilities such as extended appointment hours (including Saturdays and early mornings), at-home document collection, and free access to a premium lounge for people with reduced mobility, according to the embassy. The official inauguration of a new TLS visa center in Casablanca
The French consulate general has also signed partnership agreements with major companies operating in Morocco, including Air France, CMA-CGM, Renault, and Saint-Gobain, to facilitate business travel. A special arrangement has also been made with the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Morocco (CFCIM).
To prevent fraud and ensure fairness, a lottery system has been introduced for some appointment categories to stop illegal intermediaries who exploit visa applicants, added the statement.
Commenting on the inauguration, Lecourtier said that the new facility 'warmly embodies the commitment that has always driven us, both at the embassy and at TLS, to improve the reception we offer to all those wishing to visit France, of whom there are many.'
The ambassador added that 'Visa applicants have legitimate and growing expectations that we must meet to address the challenges of mobility between Morocco and France.' Tags: FranceMoroccoSaharaTLSVisa
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