Morocco Updates Internship Law to Strengthen Pathways into Employment

The Moroccan government has taken a significant step toward modernising employment integration by approving a new draft law that overhauls the legal framework governing internship contracts. The Government Council has adopted Draft Law No. 51.25, presented by Younes Sekkouri, Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment and Skills, marking the first major update to the system since 1993.

The reform reflects changes in Morocco’s labour market and a shift in public employment policy toward longer-term skills development. According to the ministry, the updated framework is designed to better connect training with real job opportunities, while responding to the needs of employers across a broad range of sectors. These include industrial and commercial companies, traditional crafts, real estate, services, agriculture, forestry, as well as cooperatives and associations involved in professional training, particularly those supporting individuals without formal qualifications.

Under the new provisions, both employers and trainees will benefit from a series of financial incentives. Companies offering internship contracts for professional integration will be exempt from social security contributions and vocational training fees during the internship period, provided the monthly allowance does not exceed MAD 6,000. The state will also cover mandatory health insurance contributions paid to the National Social Security Fund during training.

The law further encourages permanent hiring. If an intern is recruited at the end of their placement, the state will assume the employer’s share of social security contributions for 12 months. Trainees themselves will benefit from income tax exemptions on internship allowances capped at MAD 6,000, and those hired on open-ended contracts will enjoy a 24-month income tax exemption, subject to a gross monthly salary ceiling of MAD 10,000.

The ministry described the reform as a strategic move away from short-term employment measures toward sustained investment in human capital. By aligning training more closely with labour market needs, the government aims to improve job stability, enhance employability, and strike a better balance between economic flexibility and worker protection.

These policy changes come as Morocco continues to seek effective solutions to structural unemployment, particularly among young people and first-time jobseekers. Jobs Expo Casablanca 2026, taking place on 30 May 2026, will play a complementary role by connecting candidates directly with employers, training providers, and career experts. With free entry, live seminars, and on-site recruitment, the event offers jobseekers a practical opportunity to turn new policy initiatives into real employment outcomes. Candidates can also upload their CVs in advance on jobexpo.ma to get matched with opportunities before the event.

Full details at https://www.jobexpo.ma/