You’re planning a trip to Jordan and need clear, up-to-date information on how to get your tourist visa. In this guide you’ll find everything from visa types and eligibility to extension procedures, health requirements, overstaying rules and the latest policy changes. Every fact is backed by an official source so you can apply with confidence.

Types of Tourist Visas and Basic Requirements

Jordan offers several ways to enter as a tourist. Knowing which option applies to you will save time and money.

Visa on Arrival
Most nationalities—including the United States, Canada, EU member states, Australia and many others—can receive a visa on arrival policy by the Jordan Tourism Board at Queen Alia International Airport and other entry points. You need:
– A passport valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry
– Two passport-style photos
– Visa fee (around 40 JOD, payable in cash)

Jordan Pass
If you plan to spend more than three nights and visit archaeological sites, the Jordan Pass waives your visa fee and covers entry to Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash and over 40 other attractions. It costs from 75 JOD and is valid for 12 months from purchase, with site-entry valid for 2–12 days depending on the pass you choose.

Applying Through Embassies and the E-Visa System

If you’re not eligible for visa on arrival or prefer to apply in advance, you have two main options.

Embassy Application
Submit your application at the Embassy of Jordan in Washington, DC. You’ll need:
1. Completed application form
2. Passport with at least two blank pages
3. Two photos (4×6 cm)
4. Proof of accommodation and return ticket
5. Visa fee (varies by country)
Processing times range from 3 to 7 business days.

Online E-Visa
The Ministry of Interior’s e-visa portal lets you apply and pay online. Most nationalities can obtain a single-entry visa valid for 30 days. Processing time is typically 48–72 hours.

Special Visa Categories and Exemptions

Beyond standard tourist visas, Jordan offers specialized categories and exemptions.

Transit Visas

If your layover exceeds 24 hours and you wish to leave the airport, you can obtain a 24-hour transit visa free of charge at the airport immigration desk.

Diplomatic and Official Passports

Holders of diplomatic, service or special passports from certain countries (e.g., China, Russia, India) are exempt from visa fees and can stay for up to 90 days.

Extending Your Stay and Overstay Penalties

If you fall in love with Jordan and want to stay longer:

Extension Process
You must apply in person at any branch of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Amman or other major cities. Requirements:
– Valid passport
– Current visa
– Extension fee (10 JOD per week)
Maximum extension is 60 days beyond your initial 30-day visa.

Overstay Penalties
Overstaying incurs a fine of approximately 10 JOD per day, up to a maximum of 360 JOD. Failure to pay can lead to deportation and a temporary travel ban, according to overstay fines data.

Health, Security and Biometric Requirements

Jordan takes health and security seriously. Make sure you meet these additional requirements.

Vaccination Requirements
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Biometric Data
All visa applicants and arrivals may have fingerprints and facial images captured at entry points as part of Jordan’s border-security enhancements.

Group Travel and Regional Events

Traveling in a group or during regional developments can affect your visa experience.

Group Facilitation
Tour operators can arrange group visas, streamlining the process for parties of 10 or more. You’ll submit a single group list and supporting hotel/tour confirmations.

Security Alerts and Entry Changes
Border procedures at the Jordan–Syria crossing have tightened during periods of regional tension. Always check the Royal Jordanian Police website for real-time updates before departure.

What’s on the Horizon for Jordan Visas

Jordan continually refines its visa system to meet global travel trends.

• Digitalization push: plans to integrate visa, customs and health declarations into one mobile app by late 2024 (Travel Weekly report)
• Expansion of e-visa eligibility: removing the few remaining exceptions in early 2025 (Arab News analysis)
• Fee adjustments tied to inflation and tourism promotion: expected Q1 2025 (Gulf News overview)

Ready for Takeoff

Now that you’ve seen every angle—from visa on arrival and extensions to health rules and upcoming policy tweaks—you’re fully equipped to secure your Jordan tourist visa. Pack your bags, prepare your documents, and get ready to explore the ancient sites, desert landscapes and vibrant culture waiting for you in Jordan.