Morocco to Simplify Visa Renewal Process for Schengen Applicants

Starting on February 24, 2025, Moroccan nationals applying for Schengen visa renewals will no longer need to book an appointment at BLS International in Rabat. This change is aimed at simplifying the process and making it more convenient for applicants in several categories, including students.

Under the new rules, those renewing Schengen visas of one year or more—issued in the past four years—can now submit their applications without a prior appointment. These applicants can visit the BLS International office from Monday to Thursday between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. with a copy of their previous visa. Applicants with visas valid for three years or more can visit on Fridays between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., following the same procedure.

Additionally, students applying for Schengen visas will also be exempt from the appointment requirement. Starting this week, they can file their applications directly at the Rabat center, whether or not they had previously scheduled an appointment online.

This change is part of ongoing efforts to ease visa procedures and reduce wait times for applicants. BLS International will continue accepting both online and in-person applications, depending on the specific case.

Morocco remains one of the top countries for Schengen visa applications, with over 590,000 submissions in 2023. France and Spain were the leading destinations, receiving a combined total of more than 500,000 applications, followed by the Netherlands.

By streamlining the visa renewal process, the new measures aim to improve efficiency and accessibility for Moroccan applicants seeking to travel within the Schengen Area.