IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Jordan has eased its policy toward certain restricted nationals who normally require a visa before traveling to Jordan, according to a government circular released by Royal Jordanian Airlines.

What does the change mean? The following restricted nationals are now eligible to apply for a visa upon arrival in Jordan: Arab nationals holding a residence permit in a nonrestricted country (except Turkey) and non-Arab restricted nationals who hold a valid residence permit in Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States or any Gulf Cooperation Council country. Nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Nigeria, the Philippines and holders of foreign travel documents must continue to apply for a visa before travel – even if they hold a residence permit in one of the designated countries.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate.
  • Visas/permits affected: Visas upon arrival.
  • Who is affected: Arab nationals legally residing in a nonrestricted country; non-Arab restricted nationals holding a valid residence permit in Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, the U.K., the U.S. or a GCC member country. See the exclusions above.
  • Impact on processing times: Travelers who are eligible for visas on arrival will not need to apply for visas before travel.
  • Business impact: Eligible travelers will save time and be able to travel to Jordan on short notice without needing to apply for a visa.
  • Next steps: Eligible travelers must hold a foreign residence permit in the designated country that is valid for at least six months as of the date of arrival in Jordan and must hold a return ticket.

Background: Jordan lists 59 countries whose nationals are “restricted” and require a visa from an overseas mission before traveling.

BAL Analysis: The easing of visas for restricted nationals who are legally residing in designated countries will facilitate business travel, but travelers should be aware that border control agents may, at their discretion, ask to see a return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in Jordan and proof of accommodations while in Jordan.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Jordan. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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