The process of registering a company in Morocco involves selecting a company type, choosing a name, preparing documentation, and registering with the Regional Investment Center and Tax Administration of Morocco. By following this guide and using the provided resources, you should be well-positioned to establish your business successfully in Morocco. Adhere to the regulations and guidelines to ensure a seamless registration process and a promising start for your company in this vibrant and burgeoning market.
Step 1: Choose your company type
The initial step in registering a company in Morocco is deciding on the type of company you wish to establish. The most common types include:
- Limited Liability Company (Société à Responsabilité Limitée - SARL)
- Public Limited Company (Société Anonyme - SA)
- Branch of a foreign company
Step 2: Choose a company name
Choosing a unique name for your company is a crucial step before registration. The Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property (OMPIC) provides guidelines for acceptable names and a search tool to verify name availability at this link: https://www.ompic.ma/
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
You'll need to prepare the necessary documentation based on your chosen company type. Essential documents include:
- Articles of Association (for SARL and SA)
- Application for Company Registration (for all types)
These forms can be obtained from the Regional Investment Center's (CRI) website: http://www.cri.gov.ma/
Step 4: Identify company officers and shareholders
Identify at least one director (for SARL and SA) or one representative (for a Branch of a foreign company). Directors or representatives must be at least 18 years old. Shareholders can be either individuals or corporate entities.
Step 5: Capital requirements
Morocco requires a minimum capital of MAD 10,000 for SARLs and MAD 300,000 for SAs. There is no minimum capital requirement for branches of foreign companies.
Step 6: Register your company
Once your documents are prepared, submit your application to the Regional Investment Center (CRI). This can be done in person at the local CRI office or online via the following link: http://www.cri.gov.ma/
The approximate fees for registering a company are as follows:
- SARL: MAD 1,000 (approximately $100)
- SA: MAD 3,000 (approximately $300)
- Branch of a foreign company: MAD 3,000 (approximately $300)
Step 7: Register for taxes
After registration, you must register for taxes with the Tax Administration of Morocco. This can be done in person at the local tax office or online via the following link: http://www.tax.gov.ma/
Step 8: Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Your business activities might necessitate additional permits or licenses. Consult the relevant authorities and industry regulators for specific requirements.
Time-frame:
The entire registration process, from document preparation to receiving your Certificate of Incorporation, can take between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of your application.