Jordan Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens: Your Gateway to the Hashemite Kingdom

Jordan, a land rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, has become an increasingly popular destination for Indian tourists and business travelers alike. For Indian citizens planning a visit, understanding the Jordan visa requirements for Indian citizens is crucial for a smooth entry. The good news is that Jordan offers multiple visa options, including a convenient Visa on Arrival (VOA) and an e-Visa facility for various purposes, simplifying the process considerably for Indian passport holders. This detailed, pointwise article will outline the different visa avenues, the essential documentation required, the application process (whether online, on arrival, or via the Embassy), associated fees, and estimated processing times, with a specific focus on business travel.

1. Overview of Jordan Visa Options for Indian Citizens

Indian passport holders are not visa-free for Jordan. However, they have several convenient ways to obtain a visa:

• Visa on Arrival (VOA): This is a popular option for Indian citizens, especially for tourism. It is available at major entry points, notably Queen Alia International Airport (Amman) and some land border crossings (except King Hussein/Allenby Bridge, which requires a pre-arranged visa). The VOA typically allows a stay of up to 30 days and costs JOD 40 (Jordanian Dinars).

   
   
   

   

• e-Visa: The Ministry of Interior of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan offers an online e-Visa portal (eservices.moi.gov.jo). This is recommended for pre-approval and can streamline entry. It is available for tourism and sometimes for business (check specific options on the portal).

• Traditional Visa through Embassy/Consulate: For certain visa types, longer stays, or specific business purposes, applying through the Embassy of Jordan in New Delhi (or its designated visa application center) may still be an option or requirement.

• Jordan Pass: A fantastic initiative for tourists, the Jordan Pass waives the visa fee if you purchase it before arrival and stay for a minimum of three consecutive nights (four days) in Jordan, in addition to providing free entry to over 40 attractions, including Petra.

   

   

2. General Jordan Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens (Common to All Types)

Regardless of the application method, certain core documents and criteria are universally required for Jordan visa requirements for Indian citizens:

• Valid Indian Passport:

  • Original passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Jordan.

     

     

  • Must have a minimum of two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

     

     

  • Clear scanned copy of the passport's bio-data pages (for e-Visa).

• Recent Passport-Sized Photographs:

  • Two (2) recent (taken within the last 6 months) color photographs (specifications typically 35x45mm or 2x2 inches).

     

     

  • Plain white background, full frontal view, neutral expression, no glasses (unless for medical reasons), no headwear (unless for religious purposes, without obscuring facial features). (For e-Visa, a high-quality digital photo is required).

• Proof of Financial Means:

  • Documents demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your entire stay. This can be in the form of original personal bank statements for the last 3-6 months showing a healthy and consistent balance (recommended minimum of USD 1500 - USD 2000 or equivalent).

     

     

  • International debit/credit cards are also advisable.

• Confirmed Travel Itinerary:

  • Round-trip flight tickets (return/onward confirmed booking).

  • Detailed day-wise itinerary for your trip in Jordan.

• Proof of Accommodation in Jordan:

  • Confirmed hotel reservations for your entire stay.

  • If staying with a local host, an invitation letter from them with their contact details and a copy of their ID.

3. Specific Jordan Business Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

For Indian professionals traveling to Jordan for commercial purposes, the Jordan business visa requirements for Indian citizens are more stringent than a simple tourist VOA and generally require a pre-arranged visa (either e-Visa if applicable, or traditional Embassy application).

• Official Invitation Letter from Jordanian Company/Entity:

  • This is the most crucial document. It must be an original letter (or a high-quality scanned copy for e-Visa) on the official letterhead of the inviting Jordanian company/organization, bearing their official seal/stamp and signed by an authorized signatory.

  • The letter must clearly state:

    • Applicant's information: Full name, passport number, and nationality.

    • Purpose of Visit: Detailed explanation of the business activities (e.g., attending specific meetings, negotiations, signing contracts, participating in trade fairs/exhibitions, training, technical assistance). It must confirm that the activities are non-remunerated in Jordan.

       

       

    • Duration of Stay: Exact intended dates of arrival and departure.

    • Inviting Entity's Information: Full name, address, contact details, and their official registration number in Jordan.

    • Financial Responsibility: A clear statement indicating who will bear the financial expenses for the applicant's stay in Jordan (e.g., accommodation, daily expenses, and repatriation costs if needed).

• Company Registration of the Inviting Jordanian Company: A copy of the Jordanian company's commercial registration certificate or business license.

• Covering Letter from Indian Company:

  • On the official letterhead of your Indian employer/company, signed and stamped by an authorized signatory.

  • Must state: Your full name, designation, passport number, the specific business purpose of your trip to Jordan (matching the invitation letter), and the exact dates of travel.

  • A clear undertaking from the Indian company to bear all financial expenses (if applicable) related to your trip and confirmation of your employment and return to India after the business trip.

• Indian Company Registration Certificate: A copy of your Indian company's registration certificate (e.g., Certificate of Incorporation, GST registration, Shop & Establishment license).

   

   

• Proof of Business Relationship (if applicable): Documents demonstrating the existing or prospective business link between the Indian and Jordanian companies (e.g., previous contracts, correspondence, proforma invoices, agreements).

4. Application Process for Jordan Visa from India

The application process for Jordan visa requirements for Indian citizens varies based on the chosen option:

A. e-Visa Application (Recommended for Business/Tourism):

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the Ministry of Interior's e-services portal (eservices.moi.gov.jo).

2. Register/Log In: Create an account if you don't have one, then log in.

3. Select Visa Type: Choose the appropriate visa type (e.g., "Visit Visa E-Service"). Ensure it covers your business purpose.

4. Fill Application Form: Complete the online application form accurately, providing all personal details, passport information, and travel itinerary.

5. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of all required documents (passport photo page, personal photograph, invitation letter, company letters, flight tickets, hotel bookings, bank statements). Ensure high quality and correct file types/sizes.

    

    

6. Pay Visa Fee Online: Pay the visa fee using a credit/debit card as instructed on the portal.

7. Submit & Track: Submit the application. You will receive an email confirmation and can track the status online.

8. Receive e-Visa: Once approved, the e-Visa confirmation will be sent to your registered email address. Print it out and carry it with you for immigration.

B. Visa on Arrival (for Tourism, check if applicable for your business purpose):

1. Prepare Documents: Carry all required documents (passport, return ticket, hotel bookings, proof of funds) in hard copy.

2. Travel to Jordan: Land at a designated entry point (e.g., Queen Alia International Airport).

    

    

3. Immigration Counter: Proceed to the immigration or "Visa on Arrival" counter.

4. Fill Form & Pay Fee: You will be provided with a visa application form to fill out. Pay the VOA fee (JOD 40) in cash.

5. Verification & Stamp: Present your documents for verification. If satisfied, the immigration officer will stamp the visa in your passport.

C. Embassy/Consulate Application:

1. Download Form: Obtain the application form from the Embassy of Jordan in New Delhi's website.

2. Gather Documents: Prepare all hardcopy documents as per the specific requirements.

3. Submission: Submit the complete application package at the Embassy during working hours. An appointment might be required.

4. Pay Fees: Pay the visa fee in INR as specified by the Embassy.

5. Processing: The Embassy will process your application. You might be called for an interview.

6. Collection: Collect your passport with the visa once notified.

5. Visa Fees and Processing Time

• Visa Fees:

  • Visa on Arrival (VOA): JOD 40 (approx. INR 4,700 - 4,800, subject to exchange rates).

  • e-Visa: As per the official portal, e.g., for a 30-day tourist e-Visa.

  • Embassy Application (approximate for Business Visa):

    • Single Entry (up to 1 year validity): USD 120 (approx. INR 10,000, plus ICWF fee if applicable).

    • Multiple Entry (up to 1 year validity): USD 120 (approx. INR 10,000, plus ICWF fee if applicable).

    • Note: Actual fees may vary, always confirm with the Embassy or e-Visa portal.

• Processing Time:

  • e-Visa: Generally processed within 3-5 working days, though sometimes quicker.

     

     

  • Visa on Arrival: Immediate processing at the airport, but can involve waiting times.

     

     

  • Embassy Application: Typically 5-14 working days, but can vary depending on workload and verification.

It is always advisable to apply for your Jordan visa well in advance of your intended travel date, preferably at least 2-3 weeks prior for e-Visa and longer for Embassy applications, to account for any unforeseen delays.

In conclusion, the Jordan visa requirements for Indian citizens are straightforward and offer flexibility, with the e-Visa and Visa on Arrival options being particularly convenient. For business travelers, ensuring you have a strong invitation letter from your Jordanian partner and a clear purpose of visit that does not involve local remuneration is paramount. By diligently preparing all necessary documentation and choosing the appropriate application method, Indian citizens can confidently plan their trip to Jordan and immerse themselves in its ancient wonders and modern opportunities. Always check the latest updates from the official Jordanian Ministry of Interior e-services portal or the Embassy of Jordan in New Delhi for the most current information.