U.S. citizens require a visa to enter Jordan, but they are fully eligible to purchase the Jordan Pass, apply for a Jordan eVisa, or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport.
The Jordan Pass for US citizens is widely considered the best option for tourists planning to stay for at least 3 consecutive nights.
Purchasing the Jordan Pass before departure automatically waives the standard visa entry fee.
It also grants prepaid access to over 40 popular attractions across the country, including the world-famous archaeological site of Petra.
You can easily complete the application process online, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free entry when you arrive at Queen Alia International Airport.
NOTE: You must strictly ensure your qualifying visa or residence permit is valid for at least six months from your intended date of arrival in Jordan.
Jordan Pass vs. Visa on Arrival – Comparison
Deciding between the Jordan Pass and a standard visa on arrival depends entirely on your travel plans.
If you are simply transiting through Amman or visiting for a quick two-day weekend, the standalone visa makes more sense.
However, if you are planning a comprehensive tour of the country, the Jordan Pass offers unbeatable value.
Below is a detailed breakdown to help you compare the two primary entry methods.
|
Feature |
Jordan Pass |
Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
|
Visa Fee |
Waived (if staying 3+ nights) |
40 JOD (approx. $56 USD) |
|
Attraction Entry |
Includes Petra and 40+ sites |
Not included (Petra is 50 JOD alone) |
|
Application Process |
Online before departure |
At the airport immigration desk |
|
Best For |
Tourists staying 4+ days visiting Petra |
Short trips or business visits |
Jordan Pass vs. Visa on Arrival – Which Is Better for Americans?
For most vacationers crossing the Atlantic, the Jordan Pass for Americans is the undisputed winner.
Flights from the United States to the Middle East are lengthy and expensive, meaning most American tourists plan to stay for at least a week to make the journey worthwhile.
This extended duration easily satisfies the three-night minimum requirement to trigger the visa fee waiver.
Additionally, having your entry documents sorted out in advance eliminates the need to carry exact cash in Jordanian Dinars to pay for a visa upon landing.
You simply present your printed or digital pass at the dedicated immigration counters and proceed to baggage claim.
NOTE: You must strictly ensure your qualifying visa or residence permit is valid for at least six months from your intended date of arrival in Jordan.
Typical American Jordan Itinerary – Is Jordan Pass Worth It?
Calculating the financial benefits of the Jordan Pass is incredibly straightforward.
A standard single-entry visa at the border costs 40 JOD.
A one-day ticket to Petra costs 50 JOD if purchased at the visitor center.
Together, these two essential items cost 90 JOD (roughly $127 USD).
The entry-level “Wanderer” Jordan Pass costs just 70 JOD (roughly $99 USD).
By purchasing the pass, you immediately save 20 JOD, even before visiting Wadi Rum, Jerash, or the Amman Citadel.
To maximize your Americans travel to Jordan experience, your itinerary should naturally include:
- Petra: The crown jewel of Jordan, requiring at least one full day of exploration.
- Wadi Rum: A breathtaking desert landscape perfect for jeep tours and glamping.
- The Dead Sea: The lowest point on earth, ideal for floating in mineral-rich waters.
- Jerash: One of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in the world.
- Amman: The bustling capital city blends historic ruins with modern culture.
Jordan eVisa Requirements for Americans
If you decide not to purchase the Jordan Pass, you must understand the Jordan eVisa requirements for Americans.
The Ministry of Interior provides an electronic portal to facilitate this process.
You can check specific government guidelines directly at eservices.moi.gov.jo or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at mfa.gov.jo.
Here is a quick overview of what you need to successfully apply for a Jordan visa for Americans.
|
Requirement |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Valid Passport |
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. |
|
Digital Copy |
A clear, scanned copy of your passport’s biographical data page. |
|
Payment Method |
A valid credit or debit card to cover the applicable visa processing fees. |
|
Email Address |
An active email account to receive the approved electronic visa document. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US citizens need a visa for Jordan?
Yes, all US citizens must obtain a valid visa to enter Jordan, which can be acquired online, on arrival, or via the Jordan Pass.
Is Jordan Pass worth it for a 5-day American trip?
Absolutely, because staying more than three nights waives the visa fee and covers your expensive Petra entry ticket.
Can I get a visa on arrival if I am a US citizen?
Yes, US citizens are fully eligible to purchase a single-entry visa upon arrival at Jordanian airports and most land borders.
How long is the Jordan Pass valid for?
The pass is valid for use within 12 months of purchase and expires automatically two weeks after it is first scanned at a tourist attraction.
Does the Jordan Pass guarantee entry into the country?
While it waives the visa fee, border control officers always retain the final authority to grant or deny physical entry into Jordan.
What happens if I stay less than three nights with a Jordan Pass?
If you depart Jordan before spending three consecutive nights, you will be required to pay the standard 40 JOD visa fee at passport control before leaving.
Do children need their own Jordan Pass?
Children under the age of 12 can enter tourist sites for free, so it is usually cheaper to just buy them a standard visa on arrival.
Can I use the Jordan Pass to cross the King Hussein Bridge?
No, visas are not issued at the King Hussein (Allenby) Bridge, so you must arrange an eVisa or embassy visa beforehand if crossing there.
How many times can I enter Petra with the pass?
It depends on the tier you purchase; the Wanderer pass grants one day, the Explorer grants two days, and the Expert grants three days.
Is the Jordan eVisa the same thing as the Jordan Pass?
No, the eVisa is purely a digital travel document for entry, while the Jordan Pass bundles your entry visa waiver with prepaid sightseeing tickets.
