Morocco Simplifies Name Change Process with 2025 Legal Reform

3 min 8 sec January 18, 2026 (Edited)

Morocco has taken a step toward modernizing its civil administration framework with the unanimous approval of Bill no. 16.25 by the House of Representatives in November 2025. The bill introduces a targeted amendment to Law no. 36.21, which governs the country’s civil status system, specifically focusing on simplifying the procedure for family name changes.

This legislative development continues Morocco’s broader national strategy to simplify administrative procedures and ensure that legislation remains aligned with ongoing improvements and modernization of the civil register system. Once formally enacted and published in the Official Gazette, the amendment is expected to come into force by late 2025 or early 2026.

Background: Modernizing the Foundations of Civil Administration

Civil status records in Morocco have traditionally formed the backbone of public administration. These records document vital events such as birth, marriage, divorce, and death, which in turn underpin legal identity, family rights, and access to state services.

Law no. 36.21, enacted in 2021, represented a milestone in establishing a more unified and reliable civil status framework, notably introducing the digitalization of civil status records. Recognizing the importance of this reform, the government has continued to modernize the civil register system.

Against this backdrop, Bill no. 16.25 was introduced in 2025, culminating in unanimous parliamentary approval in November.

Key Amendment and Reform Objectives

The 2025 amendment introduces a specific revision to Article 35, Section 4 of Law no. 36.21, addressing two key areas:

• Simplification of Procedures for Family Name Changes: The amendment streamlines the administrative process for citizens wishing to change their family name, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and establishing clearer procedural pathways.
• Delegation of Authority: The revision to article 35, section 4 ensures that, in the absence of the Director of the High Committee, authority may be delegated to maintain the uninterrupted functioning of the civil register.
• Improved Quality of Services: The reform mandates enhanced service delivery, ensuring the speed and precision expected by citizens.
• Strengthening Public Trust: These measures aim to reinforce public confidence in the administrative process.

The principal objective of Bill no. 16.25 is to enhance administrative efficiency while guaranteeing the continuity of the High Committee’s civil register functions.

Strategic Alignment with National Reforms

This legislation forms part of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to modernize public administration. The bill supports broader goals of transparency, simplification, and performance-based governance.

Because civil documentation is the primary gateway to education, healthcare, and employment, modernizing this foundation directly enhances socio-economic inclusion and data reliability across the Kingdom.

Key Implications for Stakeholders

The amendment introduces the following outcomes for both the public and the administration:

Timeline and Implementation

While the House of Representatives has approved the bill, its formal entry into force awaits publication in the Official Gazette.

• Next Steps: The Ministry of the Interior will issue implementing decrees to define technical standards and the roles of regional and consular offices.
• Expected Date: Following a brief transitional phase for system integration and staff training, the law is expected to take effect in late 2025 or early 2026.

Bill no. 16.25 represents a targeted but meaningful step toward a more efficient civil administration. By simplifying family name change procedures and ensuring continuity of the High Committee’s functions, Morocco continues its commitment to responsive and citizen-focused public services.Al Tamimi & Company’s regional team, with extensive experience across MENA jurisdictions, is well positioned to guide businesses through the evolving legal and regulatory landscape in Morocco. The firm continues to monitor these developments closely and remains available to advise clients on the implications of Morocco’s ongoing legislative modernization efforts.