How to Register a Company in Morocco as an Italian Investor

How to Register a Company in Morocco as an Italian Investor

To register a company in Morocco as an Italian investor, you must follow a defined process that includes obtaining a Negative Certificate, depositing the share capital, notarizing documents, registering with Moroccan authorities, and complying with tax and social security regulations.

Why Morocco Appeals to Italian Investors

Morocco is a rapidly developing country with:

  • Strategic location near Europe, West Africa, and the Middle East
  • Strong trade agreements, including with the EU, USA, and over 50 African countries
  • Business-friendly reforms like the New Investment Charter
  • Tax exemptions and repatriation of profits
  • Access to a skilled workforce and low labor costs (average wage: $1.39/hour)

Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Company in Morocco as an Italian Investor

1. Choose Your Company Structure

Most Italian investors prefer:

  • SARL (LLC): Requires 1+ shareholders and minimal capital
  • SA (Joint-Stock Company): Ideal for large projects, more regulated
  • Branch Office: If extending an existing Italian company

Law 5-96 governs joint-stock companies, ensuring good corporate governanceInvestment in Morocco -…


2. Reserve a Company Name

  • Request a “Certificat Négatif” via the Regional Investment Center or online
  • Confirms your business name isn’t already in use

3. Deposit Share Capital

  • Required capital varies by company type:
    • SARL: No minimum capital
    • SA: 300,000 MAD minimum (approx. €27,000)
  • Open a temporary bank account in Morocco to deposit the capital

4. Draft and Notarize the Statutes

Prepare:

  • Articles of incorporation
  • Identity documents of shareholders
  • Declaration of investment for foreign partners

Have these notarized and apostilled if issued in Italy.


5. Register with Moroccan Authorities

Submit documents to:

  • Tribunal de Commerce (Commercial Court)
  • RC (Registre de Commerce) – business registry
  • CNSS (Social Security) – for employee registration
  • Tax Office (TP and IF) – for professional tax and corporate income tax

6. Get Sector-Specific Licenses

Some sectors (e.g., import/export, transportation, food) may require:

  • Customs registration
  • Professional permits
  • Environmental clearance (if industrial)

7. Open a Permanent Bank Account

Once registered:

  • Convert your temporary account into a full corporate account
  • This allows capital repatriation and access to double tax treaty benefits

Tax & Social Security Overview for Foreign Companies

Tax TypeRate
Corporate Tax (general)30%
Reduced Rate (<3M MAD)15%
Social Solidarity Tax2.5%–5%
VAT20%
Employer Contributions20.71–25.71%
Employee Contributions8.05%

Top Sectors for Italian Investors in Morocco

  • Automotive and Aerospace Manufacturing
  • Renewable Energy Projects (Solar/Wind)
  • Agro-industry & Food Processing
  • Textile and Apparel
  • E-commerce and Logistics
  • Tourism & Hospitality

Morocco aims to create 500,000 jobs in 3 years through the New Investment Charterdoing company in morcco


Why Partner with a Local Advisor or Law Firm

Navigating bureaucracy in Morocco can be challenging due to:

  • Complex paperwork requirements
  • Need for multiple official stamps
  • Regional variations in procedure

A local consultant can assist with:

  • Translation and legalization
  • Setting up appointments
  • Fast-tracking approvals
  • Advising on repatriation and tax structures

BH Adviser assist Italian clients from A to Z — from bank setup to licensing.


FAQs

Can I repatriate profits as an Italian investor?

Yes. Morocco allows free capital movement and profit repatriation, especially with Italy under bilateral investment agreements.

How long does it take to register a company in Morocco?

Roughly 3–7 days if all documents are ready, and no special licenses are required.

Do I need to reside in Morocco to open a company?

No. You can operate remotely via a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) or set up a subsidiary without relocating.

Is it better to open a branch or a new company?

For lower initial effort, a branch is easier. But for full independence and local branding, a SARL or SA is ideal.


Conclusion: Morocco Is Ready for Italian Business

Registering a company in Morocco as an Italian investor is not only possible—it’s profitable. With trade agreements, low taxes, and government support, Morocco offers a gateway to Africa, Europe, and beyond. Partner with a reliable advisor, and unlock a high-growth market from day one.

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