Notary Fees in Morocco
In any real estate transaction in Morocco, notary fees are an essential cost to anticipate. They include registration fees, notary charges, and administrative costs. This guide explains in detail how these fees are calculated, what they cover, when to pay them, and how to optimize your expenses.
What are the notary fees in Morocco?
Notary fees in Morocco typically range from 6% to 8% of the property's sale price. They include registration fees, land registry charges, notary professional fees, and administrative costs related to the sale.
- Registration fees
- Land registry fees
- Notary charges
- Various administrative fees
How are registration fees calculated in Morocco?
Registration fees are calculated as a percentage of the declared sale price. In 2026, the standard rate for typical real estate transactions is approximately 4%.
This rate may vary slightly depending on the property type and local regulations.
What are notary charges in Morocco?
Notary fees are regulated and usually account for 1% to 1.5% of the property price. They cover the drafting, legal review, and official registration of the sale deed.
- Drafting the sale deed
- Legal verifications
- Mandatory legal filings
Land registry fees: how much should you pay?
Land registry fees generally represent about 1% to 1.5% of the declared sale price. These are required for registering the property with the Land Registry and issuing the final title deed.
These fees ensure the official publication of the change of ownership.
Summary Table of Notary Fees (2026)
| Fee Type | Approximate Rate |
|---|---|
| Registration fees | ≈ 4% |
| Land registry fees | ≈ 1% to 1.5% |
| Notary charges | ≈ 1% to 1.5% |
| Administrative fees | Variable |
| Estimated Total | ≈ 6% to 8% of the sale price |
When should notary fees be paid?
Notary fees are paid at the time of signing the sale deed at the notary’s office. Most payments are made before or during the final signature to allow the notary to register the property with the Land Registry.
What additional fees might apply?
Depending on the transaction, extra fees may apply, including:
- Property appraisal fees (often optional)
- Lawyer fees if you hire legal verification
- Stamp duties and additional taxes
- Bank transfer fees
How to reduce or optimize notary fees?
While there is no official reduction for registration or regulated notary fees, you can optimize costs by:
- Ensuring the declared sale price matches the actual price
- Negotiating an amicable distribution of fees with the seller
- Avoiding transactions without a land title (which can incur extra costs and legal risks)
- Comparing notary fees (within legal limits)
Are notary fees negotiable?
Generally, notary fees themselves are not negotiable as they are regulated by Moroccan law. Only some ancillary fees can be discussed with the notary or shared with the seller.
FAQ - Notary Fees
What are the registration fees to pay?
Registration fees represent approximately 4% of the declared sale price. They are required at the signing of the deed and before final registration.
What is the Land Registry?
The Land Registry is a public service that records the official ownership of properties. Associated fees (≈ 1% to 1.5%) ensure the property title is officially published in the buyer’s name.
Do notary fees need to be paid before or after the sale?
Notary fees are generally paid at the time of signing the deed at the notary. Payment is required for the deed to be validated and registered.
Can I buy a property without paying notary fees?
No. Without payment of notary fees and registration fees, the deed cannot be validated or recorded, making the purchase legally invalid.
Is it mandatory to go through a notary?
Yes, Moroccan law requires that the signing of a sale deed be done before a notary or an adoul to guarantee the legal security of the transaction.
Conclusion
Notary fees in Morocco represent a significant part of the total cost of a real estate purchase. With proper preparation and a clear understanding of mandatory and ancillary fees, you can anticipate costs without surprises. This guide helps you manage the real budget for any property transaction in Morocco.