Jordan

When traveling to Jordan, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if you must obtain work authorization. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Jordan, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business meetings
• » Attend a trade show or seminar convention
• » Tour a company facility
• » Provide consulting services

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Jordan?

Most foreign nationals who intend to travel to Jordan to perform ordinary business activities are required to obtain a visa. Depending on nationality, business visitors may obtain a consular Visit Visa prior to travel or a Visa on Arrival at the port of entry.

Nationals from select countries, including Gulf Cooperation Council member countries, are eligible for a visa waiver and are not required to obtain a visa to enter Jordan for business purposes. Please consult with your immigration counsel prior to travel to determine your eligibility for a visa waiver, Visit Visa, or Visa on Arrival.

Business visitors from certain countries are considered restricted nationals and must obtain pre-approval from the Jordan Ministry of Interior before they may apply for a Visit Visa or Visa on Arrival, as applicable. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling for more information regarding restricted nationalities.

What types of activities require work authorization?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Jordanian law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Jordan, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Hands-on technical work
• » Repairs and maintenance
• » Auditing

If I am traveling to Jordan for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

The requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Jordan. The most common type of work authorization for Jordan is:

• » Work Permit

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

There are no long-term work authorization exemptions available in Jordan.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2022 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.