Setting Up A Company In Morocco: Administrative Procedures

Published on October 4, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Morocco offers a favorable environment for entrepreneurship, attracting numerous local and foreign investors. However, starting a business involves following a well-defined administrative process. In this article, we will detail the main steps to follow to create your company in Morocco in 2025, as well as the required documents based on the chosen legal structure.

Key Steps to Bring Your Moroccan Business to Life

Creating a company in Morocco requires completing several essential administrative procedures. Here are the main steps not to miss:

1. Choose the Legal Structure Suitable for Your Project

Before starting the administrative procedures, it is crucial to determine the most appropriate legal structure for your business. In Morocco, the most common forms are the LLC (Limited Liability Company) and the SA (Public Limited Company). Each has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of liability, taxation, and management.

2. Reserve Your Company Name

Once the legal structure is chosen, you must reserve the name of your future company with the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property (OMPIC). This step allows you to obtain a Negative Certificate, confirming that the chosen name is not already used by another company.

3. Draft and Register Your Company’s Bylaws

The bylaws define the operating rules of your company. They must be carefully drafted and then registered with the tax administration. This step is crucial as it formalizes the creation of your company.

4. Open a Professional Bank Account

Opening a bank account in the name of your company is mandatory. You will need to deposit the initial share capital, the amount of which varies depending on the chosen legal structure.

5. Obtain the Necessary Authorizations

Depending on your industry, you may need to obtain specific authorizations from the competent authorities. Inquire about the licenses and permits required for your field of activity.

6. Register with the Trade Register

Registration with the Trade Register is an essential step. It grants your company its legal personality and allows it to operate legally.

7. Enroll with the CNSS

If you plan to hire employees, enrollment with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) is mandatory. This procedure ensures the social protection of your employees.

8. Publish the Legal Creation Notice

The final step involves publishing a legal notice in a legal announcements newspaper and in the Official Bulletin. This publication formalizes the creation of your company to the public.

The Perfect File: Essential Documents Based on Your Legal Structure

The documents required to create your company in Morocco vary depending on the chosen legal form. Here is an overview of the main documents to prepare:

For an LLC (Limited Liability Company)

• The original Negative Certificate
• The company bylaws signed by all partners
• The declaration of capital subscription and payment
• The minutes of the constitutive general meeting
• The list of managers with their identification documents
• The certificate of share capital blocking
• The lease agreement or proof of ownership of the registered office

For an SA (Public Limited Company)

• The original Negative Certificate
• The company bylaws signed by all founding shareholders
• The declaration of capital subscription and payment
• The minutes of the constitutive general meeting
• The list of directors with their identification documents
• The certificate of share capital blocking
• The report of the contributions auditor (if contributions in kind)
• The lease agreement or proof of ownership of the registered office

For a GP (General Partnership)

• The original Negative Certificate
• The company bylaws signed by all partners
• The list of partners with their identification documents
• The lease agreement or proof of ownership of the registered office

Optimize Your Procedures: Expert Tips for a Smooth Creation

To facilitate the creation of your company in Morocco, here are some expert tips:

1. Anticipate and Prepare Your Documents in Advance

Gather all necessary documents before starting the procedures. This will save you valuable time.

2. Seek Professional Assistance

A chartered accountant or a lawyer specialized in business law can effectively guide you through the creation process.

3. Use Online Services

Many procedures can now be completed online, particularly through the Moroccan government’s “Create My Business” portal.

4. Verify Your Activity’s Compliance

Ensure that your activity complies with the regulations in force in Morocco, particularly in terms of specific authorizations.

5. Plan a Realistic Budget

Starting a business involves costs (registration, publication, etc.). Establish a precise budget to avoid unpleasant surprises.

By following these steps and carefully preparing your file, you will be able to create your company in Morocco under the best conditions. Remember that the key to success lies in good preparation and appropriate support.