Morocco's General Directorate of Taxes (DGI) has launched a reinforced campaign to identify and penalize property owners who fraudulently declare their secondary residences as primary homes to avoid tax. The scheme involves requesting an administrative change of a property's status, which allows owners to dodge the annual tax on secondary residences (Taxe d'habitation sur les rΓ©sidences secondaires) and the solidarity contribution on high net worth.
Authorities report a significant increase in detected attempts at this type of fraud, particularly in major cities and tourist areas like Marrakech, Agadir, and Tangier. The DGI is cross-referencing data from various administrations, including utility bills, voter registration, and residency certificates, to verify the actual use of properties.
Property owners found guilty of this fraud face substantial penalties, including back taxes for up to five years, interest on arrears, and fines that can reach 100% of the evaded amount. The crackdown is part of a broader government effort to combat tax evasion and improve fiscal fairness.
The DGI has urged citizens to regularize their situation voluntarily before being subjected to an audit, warning that controls will continue to intensify throughout the year.
