Morocco prepares new generation of biometric passports

The Government Council adopted draft decree n°2.26.551, which amends the 2008 decree establishing the biometric passport. Presented by the Minister of Interior, this initiative aims to enhance the security of the document and align it with the latest international standards. Mustapha Baitas, Minister Delegate for Relations with Parliament and government spokesperson, stated that this reform is part of ongoing efforts to protect the Moroccan passport from falsification and document fraud.

The decree outlines the implementation of this new biometric passport, with technical specifications to be detailed in a joint order from the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs. This order will also specify the formalities and conditions for obtaining the new document. Current biometric passports will remain valid until their expiration or gradual replacement.

Holders of valid passports are not required to renew them immediately. Beyond security enhancements, the new passport will also reflect "Moroccan identity in its multiple facets" through a renewed design. This development is part of the public authorities' strategy to modernize administrative services and identity documents, aiming to strengthen the reliability of Moroccan documents and facilitate international travel.