Chinese citizens need a visa to travel to Jordan and are eligible for all primary categories: an e-Visa, a Visa on Arrival, and a Regular Visa.
The specific requirements depend largely on the type of visa chosen, but the criteria remain consistent.
Travelers from China must hold a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond the intended date of entry. Additionally, the purpose of the visit must be tourism, transit, or short-term business.
Those intending to work or study in Jordan will need to follow a more complicated process through the nearest embassy.
The introduction of digital systems has made the Jordan visa more accessible.
The Ministry of Interior emphasizes the use of digital platforms to reduce wait times at border control, making the electronic option the most recommended method for Chinese nationals.
Types of Jordan Visas for Chinese Citizens
There are three main methods for a Chinese national to obtain permission to enter Jordan. Choosing the right one depends on your travel itinerary and how much preparation you wish to do before departure.
Jordan e-Visa
The e-Visa is an electronic travel visa that can be obtained entirely online before entering Jordan.
This is currently the most efficient method for securing entry. It removes the uncertainty of applying upon arrival and allows travelers to pass through immigration controls much faster.
There are several options of Electronic Visas available, each suitable to specific travel purposes:
- Visit Visa: For tourists and those visiting family or friends in Jordan.
- Transit Visa: Ideal for travelers passing through Jordan on their way to another destination.
- Exit/Entry Visa: Required for individuals who need to leave and re-enter Jordan within a specific timeframe.
- Study Visa: For students planning to attend educational institutions in Jordan.
- Work Visa: For those traveling to Jordan for employment purposes.
It is essential to select the correct visa type based on your purpose of the trip to ensure compliance with Jordanian entry regulations.
Visa on Arrival
Chinese citizens are also eligible for a Visa on Arrival. This visa is granted at authorized ports of entry, including Queen Alia International Airport in Amman and the Aqaba Airport.
While this option offers flexibility for those who make last-minute travel plans, it does carry some risks.
Visitors must queue at specific counters at the airport, which can be time-consuming during peak tourist seasons. Furthermore, if there is any issue with your documentation at the border, entry could be denied.
Regular Visa (Embassy Visa)
A Regular Visa is obtained by visiting a Jordanian diplomatic mission, such as the Embassy of Jordan in Beijing.
This route is generally necessary for Chinese nationals who do not qualify for an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival, or for those traveling for specific non-tourism purposes such as long-term study, diplomatic missions, or complex business arrangements.
The Jordan Pass
For tourists willing to visit major sites, the Jordan Pass is often the most economical choice.
While not a visa in the traditional sense, the Jordan Pass is a travel package purchased online that waives visa fees for citizens of eligible countries, including China.
If you purchase the Jordan Pass before arriving and stay in Jordan for a minimum of 3 consecutive nights (4 days), the entry visa fees are waived.
The pass also includes tickets to over 40 tourist attractions, including Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum.
When using the Jordan Pass, travelers essentially utilize the “Visa on Arrival” lane but present the pass to waive the cost. It is an excellent option for those focusing on sightseeing.
Necessary Documents to Apply for a Jordan Visa
Regardless of the Jordan visa application method, Chinese citizens must prepare a specific set of documents to meet the requirements of immigration authorities.
Standard documentation includes:
- Passport: It must have at least 6 months of validity remaining from the date of entry and at least 2 blank pages for stamps.
- Proof of accommodation: A hotel reservation, rental agreement, or an invitation letter from a host in Jordan.
- Travel itinerary: A confirmed return flight ticket or proof of onward trip to a third country.
- Photograph: A recent face photo with a white background is necessary.
Additional documents may be required based on the purpose of your visit, for example, an invitation letter or financial proof.
Jordan Visa Application Process
The application steps for a Jordan visa vary depending on the type of visa you select. Below are the detailed procedures specifically for Chinese citizens.
How to Apply for a Jordan e-Visa
The Jordan e-Visa process for Chinese nationals is managed through the official portal of the Jordanian Ministry of Interior.
- Visit the official website and select the visa type you need. Click the corresponding link.
- Log in to your account and enter the verification code. If you don’t have an account, register on the website first.
- Read the terms and guidelines carefully. When ready, click “Apply Here.”
- Enter the confirmation code from the image and click “Next” to proceed.
- Indicate whether you’re applying as an individual or an organization. Select your travel document type, nationality category, and passport nationality.
- Choose the visa type and enter your personal details, including full name, date of birth, passport number, and passport expiry date.
- Provide your residency address in Jordan along with your email and phone number. Carefully review and accept the terms and conditions.
- Enter the verification code sent to your email to confirm your application.
- Pay the required fee using a credit or debit card or another available payment method.
- Submit your application. Review all the information and click “Submit” to finalize the process.
You can easily track your Jordan e-Visa by logging back into your portal account at any time to check its status, whether it is pending, approved, or requires further action.
Once your visa is approved, you will receive the document via email in PDF format.
Make sure to print the approved Electronic Visa and carry it with you when you travel to Jordan, as it will be required for immigration control.
How to Apply for a Visa on Arrival
When you arrive at the port of entry, head to the immigration area and find the Jordan Visa on Arrival desk. You will need to present your passport and return ticket to the officer.
The standard fee is around 40 JOD (Jordanian Dinar), which is typically paid in local currency, though some counters may accept cards or have currency exchange services nearby.
After payment, the officer will stamp your passport, granting you entry into Jordan.
How to Apply for a Regular Visa
For those Chinese citizens requiring an embassy visit, it is necessary to complete the steps below:
- Contact the diplomatic mission: reach out to the Embassy of Jordan in Beijing to confirm current requirements and appointment availability.
- Prepare the application: Download and complete the physical form.
- Submit documents: Bring your passport, photos, and supporting documents to the embassy.
- Pay the fee: Fees are paid at the consular section.
You will be notified when the Jordan visa has been affixed to your passport for collection.
Stay, Validity, and Extensions
The Jordan visa (3-month single-entry, 3-month double-entry, 6-month multiple-entry, one-year multiple-entry) allows Chinese citizens to stay in the Kingdom for 30 days from the date of entry.
If Chinese passport holders wish to remain in the country beyond 30 days, they must register with a police station before their visa expires. This straightforward procedure enables extending the visit up to 60 days.
However, failing to extend properly will result in a daily fine calculated upon departure.
Processing Time for a Jordan Visa
The timeline for obtaining a Jordan visa depends on the method chosen.
For an e-Visa, processing is typically fast, with most applicants from China receiving authorization within 24 to 72 hours, though it’s best to apply at least a week before travel to Jordan.
The Visa on Arrival is processed immediately at the Jordan border, but queue times can range from 10 minutes to over an hour.
A Regular Visa from a Jordanian Embassy can take much longer, often between 5 and 14 business days.
Jordan Entry Requirements and Border Control
Holding a visa does not guarantee entry into Jordan; it allows you to travel to a port of entry where immigration officials will make the final decision.
Upon arrival, border control officers may ask questions about the purpose of your trip and your intended accommodation. Chinese citizens should have their return tickets and hotel bookings easily accessible.
To enter Jordan, Chinese nationals must also meet the following requirements, preparing:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
- An HIV test if you plan to stay in Jordan for more than 30 days.
- Approval to bring a drone into Jordan, applied for at least 10 working days before travel.
If you intend to stay in Jordan for more than 14 days, you must report to the nearest police station with a residency extension office.
Additionally, you must pay a departure tax of 10 Jordanian dinars in cash at all land border crossings. ATMs are typically available at the borders for convenience.
Lastly, customs regulations prohibit the import of narcotics, firearms, or any illegal items. If you are carrying prescription medications, ensure they are in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription.
Jordan Embassy for Chinese Citizens
For Chinese citizens who encounter issues or require specific consular assistance regarding the Jordan Visa, communicating with the diplomatic mission is recommended.
The embassy handles diplomatic affairs and issues regular visas for categories not covered by the electronic system.
Travelers can contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in Beijing using the contact details below:
- Address: 100600 Beijing Sanlitun Dongliu Jie No.5
- Phone: 00861065323906
- Email: beijing@fm.gov.jo
FAQs about Jordan Visa Requirements for Chinese Citizens
- Do Chinese citizens definitely need a visa for Jordan?
Yes, Chinese citizens need a valid visa to enter Jordan, which can be an e-Visa, a Visa on Arrival, or a Regular Embassy Visa.
- Can I use the Jordan Pass as a visa?
The Jordan Pass is not a visa but waives visa fees if you stay for at least 3 nights (4 days). Present the pass at the border to get your entry stamp without paying the visa cost.
- Can I extend my stay in Jordan beyond 14 days?
You can extend your stay by visiting a designated police station in Jordan before your initial 14-day period ends.
- Is the Jordan e-Visa available for multiple entries?
Yes, the Jordan e-Visa system offers double-entry and multiple-entry options, generally valid for 3 to 6 months for multiple trips.
- Do Hong Kong and Macau SAR passport holders have different requirements?
Hong Kong and Macau SAR passport holders are usually eligible for a Visa on Arrival and e-Visa to Jordan. However, it’s important to verify via the official portals before traveling.
Conclusion
Traveling to Jordan as a Chinese national has become increasingly accessible thanks to flexible visa options and modern digital systems.
Whether you choose a Jordan e-Visa, Visa on Arrival, or Regular Visa, the process is straightforward as long as you meet the basic requirements, including a valid passport and supporting documentation.
For those planning a tourist-focused trip, the Jordan Pass stands out as a convenient and cost-effective choice, combining entry and site access.
