Moroccan & Algerian Travellers: France or Spain? 2024 Schengen Visa Trends Revealed

Moroccan and Algerian nationals remain two of the largest applicant groups for Schengen visas from Africa — but their preferences between France and Spain are evolving.

Morocco: Spain Gains Popularity Among Moroccan Applicants

Traditionally, France has been the top destination for Moroccans seeking Schengen visas. However, recent data shows a growing shift toward Spain.

In 2024, Moroccans submitted a total of 606,800 Schengen visa applications. Of these, 282,153 were for France, accounting for 46.5% of all Moroccan applications. In 2023, France held a stronger lead with 52.43% of Moroccan applications. This indicates a notable decline in demand for French visas among Moroccan travellers.

In contrast, Spain is becoming increasingly attractive to Moroccans. The share of Spanish visa applications rose from 32% in 2023 to 35.76% in 2024. In numbers, Moroccan applications for Spanish visas increased from 189,126 in 2023 to 216,985 in 2024 — a clear upward trend.

Algeria: France Still Dominates, But Diversification Grows

Algerians remain loyal to France as their top Schengen visa destination — but diversification is underway. In 2024, Algerians submitted 544,634 visa applications. Of these, 352,295 (64.7%) were for France, up from 58.86% in 2023.

However, interest in Spanish visas among Algerians dropped, with applications decreasing from 26.9% in 2023 to 22.77% in 2024. The total number of Spanish visa applications from Algeria was 123,991 in 2024.

What is notable is that while France remains the preferred destination for Algerians, many are now applying for visas to other Schengen countries beyond Spain — signalling a more diversified travel strategy.

France’s Share of Global Schengen Applications

Both Morocco and Algeria remain among the top nationalities applying for Schengen visas overall. Algerians ranked as the sixth largest nationality group, with their applications making up 11.47% of France’s total Schengen visa intake. Moroccan applicants accounted for 9.18% of France’s total in 2024.

As visa demand shifts, Spain continues to attract a growing share of Moroccan travellers, while Algerians, though still favouring France, are exploring more diverse travel options across the Schengen Zone.