Morocco introduces new biometric passport featuring Amazigh language integration

Friday 10 - 17:00

By: Sahili Aya

Morocco introduces new biometric passport featuring Amazigh language integration

Morocco is preparing to introduce a new generation of biometric passports that will include the Amazigh language among the official languages displayed on the travel document, marking a new step in the recognition of the country’s cultural identity while strengthening security standards.

The government adopted a draft decree amending the legal framework governing biometric passports, introducing several changes including the gradual rollout of the updated document and the removal of the temporary passport system.

New passport designed around security and identity

Presented by the Minister of the Interior, the reform aims to modernize Morocco’s travel documents in line with evolving international requirements for preventing counterfeiting and document fraud.

Government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas said the new passport generation will incorporate enhanced security features designed to improve reliability and provide stronger protection against fraudulent use.

Beyond technical improvements, the reform also places greater emphasis on reflecting Morocco’s national identity through a redesigned document that highlights the country’s diverse cultural components.

Amazigh language included in official document

One of the key developments of the reform is the integration of the Amazigh language into the new biometric passport.

The decision reflects Morocco’s constitutional recognition of Amazigh as an official language and forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the visibility of the country’s cultural heritage within public institutions and official documents.

Authorities have not yet released full details regarding the visual design or technical specifications of the new passport.

Gradual deployment planned through August 2026

The implementation of the new passport will take place progressively, with full deployment expected by August 2026.

The adopted decree establishes the legal framework for the transition, while practical details—including issuance procedures, eligibility conditions and technical requirements—will be defined through a joint regulatory text issued by the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Current passports remain valid

The government has clarified that existing biometric passports will remain valid until their expiration date.

Citizens holding a current passport will not be required to replace it immediately. The transition will occur gradually through normal renewal procedures, avoiding disruption for travelers with valid documents.

Strengthening Morocco’s international travel infrastructure

The passport reform is part of a wider modernization strategy aimed at improving administrative services and adapting national identification systems to global technological developments.

As countries worldwide continue to upgrade travel documents to address increasingly sophisticated forms of fraud, Morocco’s new biometric passport is intended to enhance document security, support international mobility and maintain the country’s travel system in line with global standards.

The next phase of the project will focus on publishing implementation measures that will define the final characteristics of the passport and confirm the detailed deployment schedule.