Morocco Suspends Travel Pre-Approval System for Malians

Morocco and Mali have agreed to temporarily suspend the electronic travel authorisation (eTA) system for Malian citizens, in a move aimed at resolving technical issues and improving travel procedures between the two countries.

The decision was announced by the two countries’ foreign ministers, including Mali’s Foreign Affairs Minister Abdoulaye Diop. He explained that the suspension is part of ongoing coordination efforts to streamline administrative processes and enhance bilateral relations.

Temporary Changes to Travel Process

The suspension is expected to take effect within two to three weeks, although current travel rules will remain in place during the transition period. Travellers will still be required to obtain electronic authorisation until an official implementation date is confirmed.

Once the system is paused, Malian travellers may need to rely on traditional visa or embassy-based application processes, which could slow down travel in the short term.

What It Means for Travellers

The move is not a travel ban. Instead, it signals a shift toward simplifying entry requirements in the long run. If successfully implemented, the change could eliminate the 96-hour waiting period associated with online approval and reduce travel costs for Malians.

Authorities have advised travellers to remain patient and continue following existing procedures until new guidelines are officially announced, likely in late April or early May.

Toward Easier Regional Travel

The decision may also reflect Morocco’s broader goal of strengthening ties with African partners and potentially moving toward more open travel policies, similar to arrangements already in place with countries like Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire.

While the transition may cause short-term inconvenience, the long-term aim is to make travel between the two countries more accessible and efficient.