What paperwork is required when hiring a new employee in Morocco?

When hiring a new employee in Morocco, employers are legally required to prepare and submit several key documents, including the employment contract, CNSS (social security) registration form, medical certificate of fitness, and notification to the labor authorities. These documents ensure compliance with Moroccan labor law and protect both employer and employee rights from the very beginning of the employment relationship.

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Key Paperwork Required for Hiring in Morocco

Here is the essential paperwork step-by-step:

1. Employment Contract

• Must be in writing for fixed-term contracts (CDD) and highly recommended for indefinite contracts (CDI).
• Should include:
  • Employee and employer details
  • Job title and description
  • Salary and benefits
  • Working hours
  • Duration of contract (if fixed-term)
• Contracts must comply with the Moroccan Labor Code.

2. CNSS Registration (Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale)

• Every new employee must be registered with CNSS.
• The employer submits a CNSS affiliation form with copies of the employee’s ID.
• This guarantees social security coverage (retirement, family allowances, health insurance).

3. Medical Certificate

• Employees must undergo a pre-employment medical check to confirm fitness for the job.
• The certificate is provided by an authorized doctor and kept in the company’s HR records.

4. Declaration to the Labor Authorities

• Employers must notify the Labour Inspectorate of the new hire, typically via CNSS filings.
• This declaration includes the employee’s role, salary, and start date.

5. Employee Personal Documents

Employers should collect copies of:

• CIN (Carte d’Identité Nationale) or passport (for foreigners)
• Bank details (RIB) for salary payments
• Diplomas or qualifications (when required for the position)

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Additional HR Obligations

• Attendance Sheets: Moroccan law requires accurate employee attendance tracking.
• Internal Regulations (Règlement Intérieur): Mandatory for companies with 10+ employees.
• Payroll Records: Monthly payslips must be issued and archived.

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Why This Paperwork Matters

Failing to complete the required paperwork can lead to:

• Administrative penalties
• Labor disputes
• Fines during labor inspections

Proper documentation not only ensures legal compliance but also establishes a transparent relationship with your workforce.

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Practical Tips for Employers

• Always keep digital and hard copies of employee documents.
• Use legalized copies of contracts when possible.
• Work with a certified payroll or HR service provider to avoid errors.
• Check updates regularly on the official Ministry of Employment website: www.travail.gov.ma.

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FAQs on Hiring Employees in Morocco

Q1: Do I need to register interns with CNSS?

Yes, paid interns must be declared to CNSS, but under special conditions and reduced contributions.

Q2: Are employment contracts in French or Arabic?

Both are accepted. However, French is the most common business language, but Arabic contracts are equally valid.

Q3: What happens if I don’t provide a written contract?

If a fixed-term contract is not written, Moroccan law may interpret it as an indefinite contract (CDI), giving the employee stronger protections.

Q4: How soon must I declare an employee to CNSS?

Registration must be done within 30 days of hiring, but ideally before the employee’s first paycheck.

Q5: Do foreigners need extra paperwork?

Yes. Foreign employees require a work permit (autorisation de travail) issued by the Ministry of Employment.

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Final Thoughts

So, what paperwork is required when hiring a new employee in Morocco? At minimum: a proper employment contract, CNSS registration, medical certificate, and declaration to labor authorities. Add to this the employee’s personal documents, and you’ll be fully compliant.