UK introduces digital visa system to simplify application for Moroccans

Every year, thousands of Moroccans aspire to study, work, or visit the United Kingdom, yet many face challenges such as high visa fees, prolonged wait times, and a complex application process. In response, the UK is launching a fully digital visa system designed to expedite and simplify the application experience for Moroccan nationals.

Marc Owen, the director of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), recently visited Rabat to engage with Moroccan officials and clarify UK visa policies. During the visit, Owen outlined the transition to a comprehensive digital visa system, emphasizing its goal: “By early 2026, we aim to transition to a fully digital end-to-end system making it quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year.”

What the new eVisa means for Moroccans

Owen indicated that the transformation is already underway, with further digitization planned over the next year. In 2024, the UK introduced eVisas for customers holding Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) and ceased issuing new BRPs by the end of October. This shift allows applicants to access their eVisa directly, manage their immigration status, and keep their personal information updated.

As of March 2025, over 4.1 million individuals had created UKVI accounts to oversee their eVisa status. For Moroccans applying from mid-July and granted permission to stay in the UK for more than six months, the new process will eliminate the need for a visa vignette in their passports. Instead, they will receive an eVisa.

“This will be a significant service improvement for applicants here in Morocco, reducing the need to attend the visa application center to just one day for biometrics and document scanning,” Owen explained. They will also receive their passports back on the same day, streamlining the experience significantly for those residing far from visa centers.

High visa costs or third-party exploitation?

Addressing concerns about the high costs associated with visa applications, Owen clarified that visa fees are structured to cover operational costs, with no profit generated for the UK government. He urged Moroccan applicants to be cautious of third-party agents who may impose inflated fees for securing visa appointment slots, particularly for Schengen visas.

“Some of these companies charge administrative fees that are considerably higher than the basic visa fee,” Owen warned, encouraging applicants to utilize official UK government resources to accurately understand visa costs.

The issue of exploitation by intermediaries has exacerbated the stress and uncertainty surrounding the visa application process for many Moroccans.

When asked about the possibility of easing visa requirements or introducing waivers for Moroccans, Owen stated that no such plans are currently in place. However, he noted that long-term visitor visas and priority services are available to facilitate travel for frequent visitors or those needing urgent access.

Owen characterized the UK’s visa services in Morocco as efficient and centrally managed, allowing for flexibility and timely processing. “Unlike some countries, most of our visa decision-making occurs in large teams across the UK rather than in individual embassies or consulates,” he said.

Boosting UK-Morocco ties

In 2024, over 23,500 visas were issued to Moroccan applicants across various categories, with the majority processed within the standard three-week timeframe. “This is a sign the process is working, but we’re always keen to welcome more genuine applicants to come to the UK to study, work, or visit,” Owen remarked.

He encouraged applicants to plan ahead, applying up to three months in advance for visitor visas and six months for student visas to avoid potential delays. For urgent requests, a Priority Visa service is available, offering decisions within five business days.

The visit also aimed to strengthen the already robust partnership between the UK and Morocco, particularly in trade, investment, education, sustainability, and migration. Owen emphasized the importance of understanding the local context surrounding visa and migration topics and celebrating the close ties between the two nations.

In conclusion, Owen highlighted the ongoing cooperation on mutual priorities such as mobility, security, and prosperity, expressing hope that such visits would lead to even greater collaboration in the future.