Address: Front office : Twin Centre Tower A 6th floor Corner boulevard zerktouni and boulevard El Massira Casablanca Back office : espace ghazwani, Boulevard Ifni, Casablanca

Opening hours :Mon - Fri: 9am-12.30pm and 2pm-6pm Sat: 9am-12pm

Email:Contact@bhadviser.ma
Phone:+212 661-468014
Establishing a Branch Office in Morocco
hanae belsakri
Writing By Hanane Belaskri

22.03.2023 | Bh Adviser | Morocco

Establishing a Branch Office in Morocco: Key Insights and Benefits

Rate this article
6/ (99votes )

5/5

Setting up a branch office in Morocco offers various advantages for businesses looking to expand their operations in this strategic location. Unlike a subsidiary, a branch office is not a separate legal entity but is still considered an autonomous unit within the corporate group.

This article will discuss the steps to establish a branch office in Morocco, its legal and tax considerations, and the benefits of opting for a branch office over a subsidiary.

Establishing a Branch Office in Morocco

Establishing a Branch Office in Morocco

Obtain a negative certificate:

This ensures that the chosen trade name is unique and not in use by any other company in the country.

Prepare minutes of the parent company:

Include details such as the Moroccan registered office, branch name, and legal representative.

Register with tax authorities and local business registry:

Submit the necessary documents within 15 days and complete the registration process.

Advertise in legal gazette and Official Bulletin:

This is a mandatory requirement for transparency.

Register the branch with CNSS and the foreign exchange office:

Ensure compliance with local regulations.

Branch Management in Morocco:

Appoint a manager:

The parent company should designate a manager who will be responsible for reporting back to the parent company.

Adhere to Moroccan labor law:

Employees in the Moroccan branch should have contracts that comply with the Moroccan Labor Code.

Legal Specificities of Branch Offices in Morocco:

ependency on the parent company:

Branch offices can execute contracts and meet obligations on behalf of the parent company.

Legal status:

Branch offices do not have their own legal personality and cannot claim ownership of assets and profits.

Parent company liability:

The parent company remains legally bound to its branch in the event of legal proceedings in Morocco.

Tax Considerations for Branch Offices in Morocco:

Corporate tax obligations:

Branch offices are considered as permanent establishments for tax purposes and must comply with corporate tax obligations.

VAT:

Branch offices are subject to the common law regime for value-added tax.

Accounting:

Branches must maintain clear accounts, even though they do not have equity capital in legal terms

Advantages of Opening a Branch Office over a Subsidiary in Morocco:

a. Security for investors and partners:

The parent company can provide financial and material support to the branch office, increasing investor confidence.

Simplified administration:

No capital is required for a branch office, and there is no need for general meetings or an auditor.

Strategic location:

Morocco offers a high-potential market for businesses to expand into.

Easier management:

A legal representative can manage the branch, reporting to the parent company’s managers.

Simplified liquidation process:

The branch office can be closed with a decision from the parent company’s management, avoiding the complex procedures applicable to subsidiaries.

A branch office in Morocco offers a flexible and efficient option for businesses looking to expand their operations in this promising market. By understanding the legal, tax, and management aspects, as well as the advantages of choosing a branch office over a subsidiary, companies can make an informed decision that best suits their business needs.

Get Your Free Phone Consultation Now!

Take the first step today and get your free consultation now! Unlock the potential for success for your new business in Morocco.

Request a free quote now !
Open chat
Contact us today!
Contact us now to find out how we can help you create your dream business n Morocco!