What you need before you start
Check the IBAN before you confirm
An IBAN that is valid but wrong still goes through. Check it within seconds with the Moroccan IBAN checker: it catches typing mistakes thanks to the mod-97 check digits.
To transfer money to Morocco, you must have a 28-character IBAN or a 24-digit account number. Here are the usual steps:
- Gather all the necessary information, in particular the recipient's complete bank details: exact name of the account holder, IBAN, and the BIC/SWIFT code of their bank.
- Log in to your online banking, or go to a branch to start the transfer.
- Enter the required information: the amount to transfer and the recipient's bank details.
- Check the reason for the transfer if you are asked for one — some banks require it for international transfers.
Moroccan banks such as Attijariwafa Bank, Bank of Africa, Banque Populaire du Maroc, Crédit Agricole du Maroc or Société Générale Maroc can all receive an international transfer sent from France or from another country.
The SWIFT bank transfer
The bank transfer, or SWIFT transfer, is made directly from a foreign bank account to the beneficiary's Moroccan bank account. This method is secure and reliable, but it can take 3 to 5 working days on average, which makes it less suited to urgent situations.
The fees involved vary from one bank to another; neo-banks and online banks generally charge less. It is important to compare the fees and the exchange rates before choosing: on a large amount, the exchange rate margin often weighs more heavily than the advertised commission.
The alternatives to the bank transfer
Other ways of sending money to Morocco exist: the PosTransfer international money order from La Poste, Western Union transfers, and online transfer services such as Xoom (PayPal) or MoneyGram. Each has its advantages and its drawbacks in terms of speed, cost and convenience.
Digital transfer apps and platforms offer a fast, secure solution that is generally cheaper than the counter. The beneficiary can collect the funds in their bank account, in their mobile wallet, or in cash from a partner network.
| Solution | Time | How the beneficiary collects |
|---|---|---|
| SWIFT transfer | 3 to 5 working days | Into their bank account |
| Online transfer service | A few minutes to 24 h | Account, mobile wallet or cash |
| Branch network (Western Union, MoneyGram) | A few minutes | Cash at a branch |
| International money order | A few days | At a post office |
How to choose the right solution
To choose the best way of sending money to Morocco, four criteria have to be weighed against one another:
- The speed of the transfer — from a few minutes to five working days depending on the channel.
- The fees involved — flat commission, percentage, charges from the intermediary bank, charges on the beneficiary's side.
- The exchange rate applied — often the most expensive item, and the least visible.
- The way the beneficiary will get the funds — bank account, mobile wallet or cash.
A simple rule of thumb
For a large amount with no urgency, the bank transfer remains the cheapest. For a small urgent amount, a money transfer service is almost always better. And inside Morocco, between two Moroccan accounts, the instant transfer settles the matter within seconds.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a transfer from France to Morocco take?
Allow 3 to 5 working days for a SWIFT bank transfer. Weekends and public holidays in both countries do not count, and a compliance check can lengthen the time on large amounts.
What information should you ask the beneficiary for?
Their exact name as it appears on the account, their 28-character IBAN, and the BIC/SWIFT code of their bank. Some banks also ask for their address.
Can you send money to a Moroccan mobile wallet?
Yes, several online transfer services offer payment into a mobile wallet or collection in cash from a partner network, alongside the transfer into a bank account.
Are the fees charged when sending or when receiving?
It depends on the option chosen when the instruction is given. Some banks let you put all the charges on the sender; otherwise, an intermediary bank can take its share along the way, and the beneficiary receives less than the amount announced.
Can I have an iris.ma order delivered to a relative in Morocco and pay for it from abroad?
Yes. Payment by bank card accepts foreign cards, and delivery is made to the Moroccan address of your choice — supporting documents may be requested. See the payment methods and delivery.