The roar of the crowd, the vibrant colors, the electric atmosphere – the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) is more than just a football tournament; it’s a celebration of African unity and passion. As Morocco prepares to host the Morocco Cup 2025, the excitement is building across the continent. However, for fans from eight specific African nations, there’s a new, crucial step to consider before packing their bags: the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), or e-visa. This change, while aimed at streamlining entry, requires careful attention to ensure a smooth journey to support your favorite teams.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about Morocco‘s new electronic visa requirements for Morocco Cup 2025. We’ll break down which countries are affected, why this change is happening, and how you can navigate the application process with ease. Don’t let visa worries dim your CAN spirit – let’s ensure you’re ready to cheer on your champions!
Your Game Plan: Understanding the New E-Visa System
1. The Eight Nations: Who Needs an E-Visa?
If you’re a football fan from one of these eight African countries, pay close attention: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Gabon, Niger, Senegal, Togo, and Tunisia [1]. Historically, citizens from these nations have often enjoyed visa-exempt travel to Morocco. However, for the duration of CAN Maroc 2025, a temporary Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will be mandatory. This measure is specifically designed to manage the influx of visitors during the tournament period, ensuring security and efficient border control without imposing a full traditional visa process.
Travel Tip: Double-check your nationality! If you’re from one of these countries, start familiarizing yourself with the e-visa process now. Don’t wait until the last minute to avoid any pre-travel stress.
2. The Timeline: When Does This Apply?
The electronic visa requirement is not a permanent change but a temporary measure specifically for the CAN Maroc 2025 period. It will be in effect from September 25, 2025, to January 25, 2026 [2]. This timeframe covers the entire duration of the tournament, including potential early arrivals and extended stays for those wishing to explore Morocco beyond the matches. It’s crucial to ensure your ETA is valid for your entire planned stay within these dates.
Planning Ahead: Mark these dates on your calendar! Ensure your travel dates fall within this window and that your e-visa application is submitted and approved well in advance of your departure.
3. Why the Change? Streamlining and Security
Morocco’s decision to implement an ETA for these countries during CAN Maroc 2025 is a strategic move aimed at enhancing both security and efficiency [3]. By digitizing the entry authorization process, authorities can pre-screen visitors, manage crowd control more effectively, and ensure a smoother experience at points of entry. This system allows for quicker processing times compared to traditional visas, reducing potential bottlenecks and improving the overall fan experience. It’s a modern approach to managing large-scale international events.
Understanding the Purpose: While it might seem like an extra step, this system is designed to benefit travelers by making entry more organized and secure. Approaching the process with this understanding can ease any frustration.
4. The Application Process: How to Get Your E-Visa
The application for the Electronic Travel Authorization will primarily be handled through Morocco’s official e-visa platform, Acces Maroc, or potentially via the dedicated AFCON 2025 Yalla app [4, 5]. While specific details on the application portal and required documents will be officially released closer to the date, typically, an e-visa application involves:
•Online Form Completion: Filling out a digital application form with personal and travel details.
•Document Uploads: Providing scanned copies of your passport, a recent photograph, and potentially flight and accommodation bookings.
•Payment: Paying a processing fee online.
The Yalla app, in particular, is being developed as an all-in-one platform combining Fan ID, e-visa services, ticketing, and fan-zone information, aiming to simplify the entire experience for supporters [5].
Actionable Step: Keep an eye on official announcements from the Moroccan government and CAF (Confederation of African Football) regarding the exact application portal and detailed requirements. Prepare digital copies of your passport and a recent photo to be ready when the application window opens.
5. Essential Documents: What You’ll Need
To ensure a successful e-visa application, you’ll likely need several key documents. While the official list will be confirmed, expect to provide:
•Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Morocco.
•Recent Passport-Sized Photo: A digital photo meeting standard passport photo specifications.
•Flight Itinerary: Proof of your round-trip flight bookings.
•Accommodation Details: Confirmation of your hotel or other lodging arrangements in Morocco.
•Proof of Funds: Evidence that you have sufficient financial means to cover your stay.
•CAN Match Tickets/Fan ID: As this is for the tournament, proof of your attendance (e.g., match tickets or a Fan ID from the Yalla app) will likely be a crucial requirement.
Preparation is Key: Start gathering these documents now. Having them ready will significantly speed up your application process once the portal is fully operational.
6. Processing Time and Approval: Don’t Delay!
While e-visas are generally processed faster than traditional visas, it’s never wise to leave it until the last minute. Processing times can vary, especially during peak periods like a major international tournament. It’s highly recommended to apply for your ETA as soon as the system opens and you have your confirmed travel details [6]. This allows ample time for processing and addresses any potential issues or requests for additional information without jeopardizing your travel plans.
Golden Rule: Apply early! Aim to submit your application several weeks, if not months, before your planned departure date. A stress-free journey begins with thorough preparation.
7. Beyond the Visa: Other Travel Considerations
Securing your e-visa is a major step, but remember to consider other essential travel aspects. Ensure your travel insurance is up-to-date, covering any unforeseen medical emergencies or travel disruptions. Familiarize yourself with local customs and laws in Morocco to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit. Lastly, stay informed about any health advisories or vaccination requirements that may be in place closer to the tournament dates. A well-prepared traveler is a happy traveler!
Holistic Travel: Think beyond just the visa. Comprehensive travel planning ensures that once you arrive in Morocco, your focus can be entirely on enjoying the beautiful country and the thrilling football.
Your Journey to CAN Maroc 2025 Starts Now!
The introduction of an electronic visa for CAN Maroc 2025 is a significant update for fans from the eight affected African nations. While it adds a new step to your travel preparations, it’s a manageable one with the right information and timely action. By understanding the requirements, gathering your documents, and applying well in advance, you can ensure your journey to Morocco is as smooth and exciting as the tournament itself. Don’t let administrative hurdles keep you from experiencing the magic of African football – get your e-visa sorted and prepare for an unforgettable experience!
References
[1] Africanews. (2025, September 28). Morocco introduces simplified e-authorisation for CAN 2025 supporters from certain African. https://www.africanews.com/2025/09/22/morocco-introduces-simplified-e-authorisation-for-can-2025-supporters-from-certain-african// [2] Visasnews. (2025, September 22). Morocco: electronic travel authorization temporarily introduced for eight African countries during AFCON 2025. https://visasnews.com/en/morocco-electronic-travel-authorization-temporarily-introduced-for-eight-african-countries-during-afcon-2025/ [3] North Africa Post. (2025, September 22). Morocco introduces e-visas for CAN 2025 visitors. https://northafricapost.com/90769-morocco-introduces-e-visas-for-can-2025-visitors.html [4] Acces Maroc. Portail de MAECI pour faciliter les demandes des visa, eVisa, eVisa évèmenet et autorisation pour acceder au Maroc. https://www.acces-maroc.ma/ [5] CAF. (2025, September 12). CAF and LOC Announce TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 Ticket Sales Process and Yalla App: A New Fan ID and E-Visa for AFCON Fans. https://www.cafonline.com/afcon2025/news/caf-and-loc-announce-totalenergies-caf-afcon-morocco-2025-ticket-sales-process-and-yalla-app-a-new-fan-id-and-e-visa-fohttps://sports.yahoo.com/article/2025-morocco-eases-entry-fans-112500711.htmlr-afcon-fans/ [6] Yahoo Sports. (2025, September 25). CAN 2025: Morocco eases entry for fans.
