Jordan Visa
Jordan is a treasure trove of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning to explore Petra, float in the Dead Sea, or experience the bustling city life in Amman, you’re in for a treat. However, before you pack your bags, make sure you understand the visa requirements for entering Jordan.
Do You Need a Visa for Jordan?
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Jordan, but the country has a relatively flexible visa policy, with many visitors eligible for a visa on arrival. Here’s a detailed breakdown of Jordan’s visa requirements and policies.
Visa-Free Travel to Jordan
If you’re from one of the following countries, you don’t need a visa to visit Jordan for the specified period:
- Up to 3 Months: Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Turkey
- Up to 2 Months: Tunisia
- Up to 1 Month: Egypt, Israel, Palestine
If you are from one of these countries, you can enter Jordan without a visa or just with a valid ID card.
Who Can Get a Jordan Visa on Arrival?
If you’re not from a visa-free country, don’t worry. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival. This means you can get your visa at the airport or border crossing when you enter Jordan. The visa on arrival is available for citizens of countries like:
- Americas: Canada, United States, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, and others
- Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, and others
- Asia-Pacific: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and others
- Africa: South Africa, Kenya, and others
- Middle East: Jordan’s neighbors like Iraq, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and more
Note: If you’re from one of the countries eligible for a visa on arrival, you can enter Jordan without prior application. The visa fee is JOD 40 (about US$56).
Applying for a Jordan Visa on Arrival
Here’s how to get a visa on arrival when you enter Jordan:
- Arrival at the Airport/Entry Port: Approach the Visa on Arrival counters at Aqaba Airport, Queen Alia International Airport, or most land border crossings (except King Hussein/Allenby Bridge).
- Present Your Documents: You’ll need to show your passport, return-trip ticket, hotel reservation, and pay the visa fee.
- Answer Questions: The immigration officer may ask you a few questions about your trip, so be prepared to explain your travel plans.
- Visa Stamped: Once your visa is stamped, you’re ready to explore Jordan!
Important: Keep cash ready for the visa fee. You might also need to show proof of financial means, like a bank statement, to ensure you can support yourself during your stay.
Who Needs to Apply for a Jordan Visa at an Embassy?
If your country isn’t eligible for a visa on arrival, you’ll need to apply for a visa at a Jordanian embassy or consulate before you travel. This applies to citizens from countries like:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Iran
- Iraq
- Pakistan
- Nigeria
- Yemen
- Somalia
- And other countries in Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East
You should also apply at an embassy if you plan to stay in Jordan for longer than a month or need multiple entries. The visa on arrival is typically for single entry and a maximum of 30 days.
Applying for a Jordan Visa at an Embassy
If you need to apply at an embassy, here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Contact the Embassy/Consulate: Find the nearest Jordanian embassy or consulate and inquire about their visa application requirements.
- Gather Required Documents: This usually includes your passport, application form, passport-sized photos, and other supporting documents like proof of accommodation, financial means, and return tickets.
- Submit Your Application: Depending on the embassy’s process, you can submit your application in person or by mail.
- Wait for Processing: Processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your travel date.
What Documents Are Needed for a Jordan Visa?
To apply for a Jordan visa, you’ll generally need the following documents:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date and have at least two blank pages.
- Proof of Onward Travel: Your return-trip ticket.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservation or other accommodation proof.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or other evidence showing you can support yourself during your stay.
- Visa Fee: Enough cash to cover the visa fee.
- Other Documents: Depending on your visa type, you may need additional documents like a business letter for business visas or a letter of enrollment for student visas.
Can You Extend a Jordan Visa?
If you want to stay longer in Jordan, you can extend your visa, but you’ll need to register at a Jordanian police station before your visa expires. If you have a visa on arrival, you can get an extension for up to 60 days. Embassy visas may allow extensions for up to six months.
Important: If you overstay your visa without registering, you’ll be fined about US$2 per day when you leave Jordan.
What Is the Jordan Pass?
The Jordan Pass is a convenient way to visit Jordan’s top tourist attractions and can also waive the visa on arrival fee if you stay in Jordan for more than three nights. It grants you free entry to over 30 locations, including Petra, Wadi Rum, and more. If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, the Jordan Pass can save you money.
Is the Jordan Pass Worth It?
If you’re staying in Jordan for more than three nights and plan to visit popular tourist sites, the Jordan Pass is definitely worth it. It covers the visa on arrival fee and gives you free access to major attractions. However, if you’re only staying for a short time or are part of a tour group with visa fees included, you might not need the Jordan Pass.
Final Tips for Traveling to Jordan
- Plan Ahead: Ensure you have all the required documents for your visa application and travel.
- Understand Visa Requirements: Know whether you need a visa on arrival or an embassy visa based on your nationality.
- Consider the Jordan Pass: If you’re visiting multiple tourist attractions, the Jordan Pass could be a great investment.
- Follow Local Laws and Regulations: Respect local customs and laws during your stay in Jordan.
Enjoy your trip to Jordan and make the most of this incredible country!