Jordan Visa Requirements
For 🇺🇸 United States passport holders
United States passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Jordan ports of entry.
US citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport and most borders. Single entry costs 40 JOD (~$56). The Jordan Pass (includes visa fee + attractions) is highly recommended for tourists planning to visit Petra.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 blank page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Passport valid for at least 6 months. Return/onward ticket. Hotel reservation or invitation letter.
Fine of 1.5 JOD per day overstayed. Must settle at airport before departure.
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date with at least 2 blank pages
Passport-size Photos
Two recent color photos (2x2 inches or 35x45mm). Bring extra copies as requirements may vary
Completed Arrival Card
Immigration arrival/departure card provided on flight or at port of entry
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel reservation, booking confirmation, or address where you will be staying
Return or Onward Flight Ticket
Confirmed flight booking showing departure from the country within visa validity
Visa Fee (Cash)
Payment for visa on arrival fee - bring exact amount in USD or local currency
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Cash, credit cards, or bank statements showing adequate funds for your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended coverage for medical emergencies during your trip
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A/B, typhoid recommended.
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Jordan is one of the safest Middle Eastern countries. Tourist areas are secure. Avoid border areas with Syria and Iraq. Maintain awareness of regional tensions.
Money & Costs
Currency
JD Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $50 · Mid: $120 · Luxury: $350+
Tipping
Tip 10% in restaurants. Tip guides and drivers.
Practical Info
Power
Type B, C, D, F, G, J, 230V
Driving
Right side
Emergency
911 (all emergencies)
Getting There
Main Airports
Amman (AMM)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Jordan has a Mediterranean climate in the highlands and desert conditions elsewhere. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring Petra, Wadi Rum, and Amman, with warm days and cool nights. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat, particularly in the Jordan Valley and Aqaba, though nights in Wadi Rum are comfortable. Winter (December-February) can be cold and wet in Amman and Petra, with occasional snow, but is ideal for the Dead Sea and Aqaba. Ramadan timing varies and affects restaurant hours. The Jordan Festival in Amman (July) brings cultural performances.
Cultural Notes
Jordan is a moderate Muslim country with a hospitable culture rooted in Bedouin traditions. The Hashemite monarchy, claiming descent from the Prophet Muhammad, provides stability in a volatile region. Hospitality (karam) is deeply valued - you may be offered tea or coffee by strangers. Dress modestly outside resort areas, particularly for women. Friday is the holy day with reduced business hours. The Palestinian population is significant, making up a majority of citizens, creating sensitivities around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Jordan has peace treaties with Israel and welcomes Israeli tourists, though politics are best avoided. Jordanians are proud of their heritage and generally welcoming to Western visitors. The call to prayer marks the rhythm of daily life.
Insider Tips
Jordan is one of the Middle East most visitor-friendly destinations, with Petra alone justifying the journey. Allow at least two days for Petra - the Treasury is just the beginning of this ancient Nabataean city carved into rose-red cliffs. Wadi Rum offers surreal desert landscapes best experienced on a jeep tour with Bedouin guides and overnight camp stays. The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth where you float effortlessly. Amman downtown and the Roman ruins of Jerash add historical depth. The Jordan Pass saves money by including visa and entry to most sites. The Jordanian dinar is the currency. English is widely spoken. Jordanian cuisine features mezze, mansaf (national dish), and strong Arabic coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa to visit Jordan?
Yes, but US citizens can easily obtain a visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport and most border crossings. The single-entry tourist visa costs 40 JOD (approximately $56 USD). However, the Jordan Pass is highly recommended: it costs 70-80 JOD depending on Petra days included, covers your visa fee AND entry to 40+ attractions including Petra. If you're visiting Petra for even one day, the Jordan Pass saves money and simplifies entry. Purchase online before arrival at jordanpass.jo.
How many days do I need at Petra?
Most visitors spend 1-2 days at Petra, but the site truly deserves at least 2 full days to appreciate its scale. Day 1 typically covers the main trail: Siq (canyon entrance), Treasury (the famous facade), Street of Facades, Royal Tombs, and the Colonnaded Street. Day 2 allows time for the Monastery (Ad-Deir), reached by 800+ steps with spectacular views, plus exploring side trails and lesser-visited tombs. Early morning and late afternoon offer best light for photography and fewer crowds. The Jordan Pass offers 1, 2, or 3-day Petra options.
Is Jordan safe to visit given its location?
Yes, Jordan is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists. Despite being surrounded by conflict zones, Jordan has remained stable with a strong security apparatus and tourism-friendly government. The country relies heavily on tourism revenue and takes visitor safety seriously. Avoid areas near the Syrian and Iraqi borders. Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and Aqaba are all safe. Political protests occasionally occur but are typically peaceful. Most travelers experience warm hospitality and feel very safe throughout their visit.
What is the Jordan Pass and is it worth it?
The Jordan Pass is a prepaid package including your tourist visa fee (40 JOD) plus entry to 40+ attractions. It comes in three tiers based on Petra days: Jordan Wanderer (1 day Petra, 70 JOD), Jordan Explorer (2 days, 75 JOD), Jordan Expert (3 days, 80 JOD). Since Petra alone costs 50 JOD for one day, and the visa is 40 JOD, you save money if visiting Petra. You must buy it online BEFORE arrival and stay at least 3 nights in Jordan. It covers major sites like Jerash, Wadi Rum visitor center, Ajloun Castle, and museums. For any tourist visiting Petra, it's absolutely worth it.