Leaving Europe to settle in Morocco is a significant decision that requires careful and proactive preparation. Several administrative and practical steps must be taken to ensure a smooth transition and avoid unpleasant surprises once you arrive.
Terminating Contracts and Subscriptions
Before departing, cancel or transfer essential contracts tied to daily life:
Housing: Give notice (often 1–3 months, depending on the lease), schedule a final inspection, and close utility accounts (electricity, water, gas).
Insurance: Cancel home, health, car, and other insurance policies.
Subscriptions: Internet, phone, TV packages, gym memberships, etc.
📌 Reminder: Request a cancellation confirmation from each provider to avoid post-departure billing.
Tax Obligations
Even after leaving France, some tax responsibilities remain:
Notify your tax office (centre des impôts) of your permanent move abroad (via Form 2042 or a simple letter).
File a final income declaration for earnings up to your departure date.
Note: Any ongoing French income (rental, pension, etc.) will be taxed at the non-resident rate.
Health Insurance and Carte Vitale
Your French healthcare coverage ends upon departure, unless exempt (e.g., retirees under a bilateral agreement). Key steps:
Inform CPAM (primary health insurance fund) of your move.
Return your Carte Vitale (or keep it inactive if you might return).
Check eligibility for coverage through Morocco’s CNSS or AMO system.
Mail Forwarding
La Poste offers temporary international mail redirection (up to 12 months). This ensures you receive official documents during the transition period.
Dealing with CAF and Other Agencies
CAF (Family Allowance Fund):
Notify them of your change in circumstances. Benefits like housing assistance (APL) and family allowances will stop once you’re no longer a resident in France.Unemployment Office:
If you’re registered, inform them of your departure. Some benefits may continue for a limited time under specific conditions.Bank Accounts:
Decide whether to keep or close your French bank account. Maintaining an account can be useful if you still have administrative matters or income in France.
📌 Pro Tip: Request written confirmation of any benefit cancellations or account changes to avoid future complications.
🧰 Chapter 2 Checklist
Terminated housing/utilities
Canceled subscriptions & insurance
Notified tax authorities
Settled healthcare coverage
Set up mail forwarding
All Chapters
Chapter 1 – Considerations Before Returning (FREE)
Reasons for returning, key questions to ask yourself
Chapter 2 – Administrative Procedures in Europe (FREE)
Terminating contracts, taxation and taxes, social security
Chapter 3 – Administrative Procedures in Morocco
Moroccan national ID card, driver’s license, consulate registration, asset registration (car, furniture, etc.)
Chapter 4 – Transport and Moving Logistics
Shipping containers, luggage, vehicle transport, customs, etc.
Chapter 5 – Finding Housing in Morocco
Renting vs. buying, popular areas (based on profile), risks to avoid
Chapter 6 – Social and Professional Reintegration
Reconnecting with your roots, working or starting a business, schools, friends, language
Chapter 7 – Budget and Cost of Living
Europe vs. Morocco comparison, expected expenses, money-saving tips
Chapter 8 – Retirees: A Smooth Return
Pension transfer, health coverage, affordable cities
Chapter 9 – Conclusion and Useful Resources
Checklist summary, helpful links and contacts, words of motivation
