In a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and boosting tourism, Morocco has announced that Albanian citizens will be permitted to enter the North African nation without a visa for short-term stays. The decision, made unilaterally by Moroccan authorities, was reached following a meeting between Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Albania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, earlier this month in Rabat.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad confirmed the decision, stating that the visa exemption is intended to encourage tourism, foster people-to-people exchanges, and enhance bilateral relations.
Albania Yet to Reciprocate
Despite Morocco’s gesture, Albanian authorities have not lifted visa requirements for Moroccan nationals, meaning that the policy remains one-sided. While some media reports initially suggested that the agreement was reciprocal, Albanian officials have not announced any plans to alter visa requirements for Moroccans.
During the March 1 meeting, both ministers underscored the strength of Albania-Morocco relations, with Morocco acknowledging the Western Balkans’ evolving geopolitical landscape and its contributions to regional peace and stability. Moroccan officials also commended Albania’s role in fostering good neighborly relations.
Comparing Passport Strengths
According to the VisaGuide.World Passport Index, Albania’s passport ranks 81st globally, with its holders enjoying visa-free travel to 94 countries and requiring visas for 63 others. Morocco’s passport, in contrast, is ranked 124th, granting its citizens visa-free access to 48 countries while necessitating visas for 119 destinations.
Morocco’s Expanding Visa-Free Agreements
Morocco has recently signed bilateral visa-free agreements with Türkiye and Azerbaijan, facilitating travel for their respective citizens. Additionally, authorities announced that, beginning March 19, 2025, holders of ordinary passports from Kazakhstan and Morocco will be able to travel between the two nations without visas.
While Morocco’s decision to ease travel restrictions for Albanians signals a step toward greater diplomatic engagement, it remains to be seen whether Albania will reciprocate the gesture in the future.
