10 Steps : Company Registration in Morocco

Registering a company in Morocco Involves several key steps that are essential for legal and operational compliance. This process can vary slightly depending on the type of business you are establishing, but the following is a general guide to the main steps involved:

• Individual Enterprise: Ideal for small businesses.
• Limited Liability Company (SARL): Suitable for small to medium-sized companies.
• Public Limited Company (SA): Best for larger businesses.
• Branch Office or Subsidiary: For foreign companies expanding into Morocco.

• Name Verification: Ensure your company name is unique.
• Name Reservation: Reserve the name at the Office of Industrial and Commercial Property (OMPIC).

#3 Draft the Articles of Association

• Legal Framework: Outline the company’s objectives, share capital, management structure, etc.
• Notarization: Get the articles notarized by a Moroccan notary.

#4 Deposit the Share Capital

• Bank Account: Open a bank account in the company’s name.
• Capital Deposit: Deposit the required initial capital.

#5 Register with the Commercial Registry

• Documentation Submission: Submit the necessary documents to the Commercial Court.
• Registration Certificate: Obtain a registration certificate.

#6 Obtain a Tax Identification Number

• Tax Authority Registration: Register with the Moroccan tax authority.
• Identification Number: Receive a unique tax identification number.

• CNSS Registration: Register with the National Social Security Fund (Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale, CNSS).
• Employee Benefits: Ensure compliance with employee benefits and contributions.

#8 Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits

• Industry-Specific Licenses: Depending on the business type, obtain the necessary licenses.
• Local Permits: Check for any local permits required.

#9 Set Up Accounting and Bookkeeping

• Accounting Systems: Establish accounting and bookkeeping systems.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with Moroccan accounting standards.

• Employment Contracts: Draft employment contracts in line with Moroccan labor laws.
• Labor Regulations: Ensure adherence to labor regulations regarding working hours, wages, etc.

Conclusion

Registering a company in Morocco requires careful planning and adherence to local laws and regulations. It’s advisable to seek legal and professional advice to ensure all procedures are correctly followed. This not only establishes the company on a firm legal footing but also lays the groundwork for successful business operations in Morocco.