Islamabad, Jan 28: Jordan has recently introduced a major policy update, allowing foreign nationals and Syrian residents from various countries to enter without prior approval. The change applies to residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, as well as the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and all European countries. With this policy shift, Syria residents in these countries are also eligible for entry. 
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The residency requirement has been reduced from six months to four months, and the updated rule now applies to all European countries, not just EU members.
Key Updates:
- Residency Requirement: To enter Jordan, foreign nationals and Syrian residents must have a valid residency for at least four months in an eligible country.
- Visa Holders: Schengen and US visa holders can enter Jordan without needing to use their visas in the respective issuing country first.
- Five-Year Visa Holders: Those with five-year visas can enjoy three-month residency permits for each visit, without needing prior security clearances.
- Equal Treatment: Residents from eligible countries will be treated similarly to citizens, as long as they meet the four-month residency requirement.
- Domestic Workers: Domestic workers accompanying Jordanian expatriates or GCC citizens are now allowed to enter Jordan with their employers and receive a temporary three-month residency permit at border crossings.
Objectives Behind the Changes: The Jordanian government hopes to boost tourism and attract more foreign investments. This aligns with their Economic Modernization Vision, aimed at strengthening Jordan’s position as both a prime tourism hub and a favorable investment destination. These changes also strike a balance between security concerns and the country’s economic growth goals. The updated policies reflect Jordan’s commitment to streamlining entry procedures, making it easier for visitors and investors to contribute to the nation’s development.
