Before planning a trip to Jordan, you must ensure that you have the correct travel documents. A valid passport for all nationalities is required for entry into the country. Before traveling, check your passport to ensure it is legible, and is not worn or frayed to the point that it appears to have been altered. Most importantly, check the expiration date. Has the passport expired, or will it possibly expire while you are traveling? If your passport is within 90 days of expiring or is worn out, consider renewing it before you depart for your trip.
The Jordanian government has very strict entry visa laws. Failure to comply with these laws can lead to arrest and deportation from the country. A valid passport and visitor visa are required for entry, of all nationalities. Many nationalities are authorized to receive a visitor visa upon arrival at any point of entry into Jordan, but many are required to apply for a visa before arrival. The list of countries can change frequently and without warning; check the tourism bureau website before planning a trip.
Upon arrival in Jordan, you will proceed to passport control to receive an entry stamp into the country. For most nationalities, this stamp will serve as your visitor visa. The cost as of August 2009 is 10 Jordanian dinar (about $14 U.S.) and it is valid for 30 days. If you are required to pre-apply for a visa, you will have to go to the visa counter to obtain your visa first. After immigration has cleared you for entry into Jordan, you will proceed to the customs area, where you may or may not have your property inspected for banned items. You will be asked for an address where you will be staying, so keep your travel itinerary with your other travel documents for quick reference. When you depart Jordan, there is a departure fee of 20 Jordanian dinars. If this fee has not been included in your airline ticket, you will have to pay it before you depart.
If you rent a car and drive in Jordan, an international driver's license is preferred, but a valid license from your country of residence is acceptable. Anytime you are traveling through Jordan, keep your passport close at hand. The Jordanian police and military have many checkpoints throughout the country, and you will be required to present your travel documents when asked.
Terrorism is an ever-present threat to those traveling in Jordan. When visiting the country, register your presence with your country's embassy. Coordinate travel to historic sites through your hotel's concierge service if possible. Be respectful of the Muslim religion and Arabic culture. Do not transport pork products or pornographic materials into Jordan; they are illegal and you will be denied entry.
