Jordan
Country Specific Information
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August 01, 2011

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a constitutional monarchy with a developing economy and a modern infrastructure. Western culture features prominently in the lives of many Jordanians. At the same time, traditional Islamic ideals and beliefs provide a conservative foundation for the country's customs, laws, and practices. Businesses and facilities catering to tourists are widely available, although quality may vary depending on price and location. Read the Department of State Background Notes on Jordan for additional information. Please also see the Special Circumstances section below.

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SMART TRAVELER ENROLLMENT PROGRAM (STEP) / EMBASSY LOCATION: If you are going to live in or visit Jordan, please take the time to tell our Embassy about your trip. If you enroll, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements. It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency. Here's the link to the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

U.S. Embassy in Amman
Al-Umayyaween Street, Abdoun neighborhood, PO Box 354, Amman 11118
Telephone: [962] (6) 590-6000
Emergency after-hours telephone: [962] (6) 590-6500
Facsimile: [962] (6) 592-4102
The U.S. Embassy is open Sunday through Thursday.

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ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTS FOR U.S. CITIZENS: A passport and a visa are required. Jordan issues visas to U.S. citizens for a fee at most international ports of entry and at most international land border crossings upon arrival. The visa currently costs 20 JD ($28 USD) for a single entry, 40 JD ($56 USD) for two entries, and 60 JD ($84 USD) for a multiple entry. However, visas are not issued upon arrival at the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge land border crossing. U.S. citizens must already be in possession of a valid visa to Jordan or have a special entry permit from the Jordanian Ministry of Interior to enter Jordan at this crossing. For more information regarding travel to the West Bank and Jerusalem, please contact the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem.

U.S. citizens are typically given visas that are valid for 30 days. Foreigners who wish to stay longer than the time given to them by Jordanian immigration upon entry into Jordan must register at a Jordanian police station before expiration of that time. Travelers who fail to register properly subject themselves to a fine of 1.5 JD (approximately $2.10 USD) per day of overstay. This fine is usually assessed at departure.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Jordan. Jordan does not permit entry or residency for foreign nationals with HIV/AIDS. Travelers known to have HIV are denied entry at ports of entry, including land border crossings. Travelers seeking to extend their stay beyond the initial timeframe are legally required to have an AIDS test performed at a government medical facility. Those who fail to submit to the test or who test positive for HIV are deported. For further information, please see the Embassy of Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan website before you travel.

Travelers are urged to check the Country Specific Information and any existing Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts for all countries they plan to visit during their travel to the region. Border crossing requirements may change and borders may be closed during periods of heightened security. For further information travelers may contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008, or by telephone at (202) 966-2664. Jordan also maintains Honorary Consulates in Detroit, MI, Chicago, IL, and San Francisco, CA.

Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page.

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THREATS TO SAFETY AND SECURITY: The threat of terrorism remains high in Jordan. Transnational and indigenous terrorist groups have demonstrated the capability to plan and implement attacks in Jordan. In August 2010, a roadside improvised explosive device (IED) detonated next to a vehicle carrying three USG contractors as it was traveling through an Amman suburb; the contractors did not suffer any serious injuries. In January 2010, an official Israeli motorcade was struck by an IED as it was traveling from Amman to the King Hussein/Allenby Bridge border crossing; passengers in the vehicles were unharmed and the vehicles sustained minor damage. Several rockets believed to have been launched from the Sinai Peninsula struck the port city of Aqaba in April and August 2010. In the latter attack, one rocket destroyed a taxi cab outside of a hotel, killing the driver.

Following the death of Usama bin Laden in May 2011, the Department issued a worldwide Travel Alert to all U.S. citizens traveling or residing overseas regarding the possibility of enhanced anti-American violence. Travelers to Jordan should be cognizant of the fact that Al-Qaida in Iraq affiliates have carried out terrorist activities against U.S. and Government of Jordan (GOJ) targets in Jordan. The assassination of U.S. diplomat Larry Foley outside his west Amman residence on October 28, 2002 was attributed to the Al-Qaida in Iraq network. The same network claimed responsibility for the Aqaba rocket attacks targeting a U.S. naval ship on August 19, 2005, which killed one Jordanian soldier and wounded another. The Al-Qaida in Iraq network also claimed responsibility for the November 9, 2005, bombings of three international hotels in Amman that killed 60 people and injured over 100. Pedestrian suicide bombers wearing explosive vests carried the bombs into the hotels.

Terrorists often do not distinguish between U.S. government personnel and private U.S. citizens. Terrorists may target areas frequented by Westerners, such as tourist sites, hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, liquor stores, shopping malls, transportation hubs, places of worship, expatriate residential areas, and schools. In light of these security concerns, U.S. citizens are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance, to be aware of their surroundings, and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. It is especially important for travelers to be unpredictable in their movements by varying their times and routes and maintaining a low profile. Moreover, U.S. citizens are urged to avoid contact with any suspicious or unfamiliar objects and to immediately report the presence of such objects to local authorities. U.S. government personnel overseas have been advised to take the same precautions.

Since mid-January 2011, recurring demonstrations of varying size have taken place in Amman and throughout Jordan. A limited number of these protests have turned violent, including two in Amman and one in Zarqa. Because demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence, travelers are advised to avoid all protests and large gatherings of people. Many demonstrations occur on Fridays near mosques following noon prayers. Consequently, special sensitivity and caution should be exercised when visiting or traveling near mosques and religious sites during holy days and Fridays. In addition, demonstrations and other forms of unrest also occur periodically on or near university campuses in Jordan, and have at times turned violent and indirectly affected U.S. citizens.

Tribal violence in Jordan remains a concern. Clashes between feuding clans or families periodically erupt without notice and sometimes involve an escalation in violence, including the use of firearms. In some cases, Jordanian security services are slow to respond or may opt to let the violence peter out before intervening. In some cases, the authorities have closed major roads, highways or parts of cities to contain the violence.

Anti-U.S. and anti-Western sentiments exist in Jordan and may intensify following important events in the region, particularly those related to Israeli/Palestinian issues, conflicts in Lebanon, and, to a lesser extent, Iraq. This may lead to random acts of violence against Westerners. On July 16, 2008, a gunman fired on foreigners leaving a public concert in downtown Amman, injuring eight foreigners before turning the gun on himself. On September 4, 2006, a gunman fired on foreigners at a popular tourist site in central Amman, killing one and injuring six. Travelers are advised to avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings of people.

U.S. citizens are advised to increase their vigilance as they approach the border area with Iraq as Iraq-based terrorists have targeted that border crossing with vehicle bombs. The Department of State advises against travel into Iraq. Please see the Travel Warning and Country Specific Information for Iraq for further information.

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CRIME: Statistically, petty crime is the most common form directed against U.S. citizens and other Western nationals,, especially at tourist sites and in crowded areas. Pickpockets, purse snatchers and opportunistic thieves are known to target foreigners in the narrow and crowded streets of the older parts of Amman's city center. Travelers are urged to be more guarded in these areas and in all tourist locations in Jordan to lessen the likelihood of becoming a victim of petty theft. Jordanian police have warned the public to exercise vigilance when leaving banks or ATMs, as thieves have reportedly preyed upon persons soon after using these services.

Women from Western countries visiting and residing in Jordan have periodically reported incidents of sexual harassment, stalking, and indecent exposure. The Embassy continues to receive a limited number of reports regarding incidents of sexual assaults involving taxis and taxi drivers. Many of the incidents have involved verbal sexual harassment, staring, or following the victim. To lessen the likelihood of being victimized while using a taxi, foreign women are encouraged to take reasonable precautions such as avoiding travel to unfamiliar areas at night, not traveling alone, not riding in the front seat of a taxi and dressing modestly when in public. Carrying a cellular telephone at all times is recommended.

Violent crime is infrequent and rarely targets U.S. citizens or other Westerners. In the past year, the Embassy has received reports of firearms being discharged at vehicles being driven by Westerners. A dispute between two rival protection rackets led to shots being fired at multiple nightclubs, bars, liquor stores and similar establishments in March 2011. While not common, thefts of vehicles, assaults, robbery and attempted residential break-ins have also been reported.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law. 

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VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can:

  • Replace a stolen passport.
  • For violent crimes such as assault or rape, help you find appropriate medical care,
  • Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and contact family members or friends.
  • Although the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime, consular officers can help you understand the local criminal justice process and can direct you to local attorneys.

The local equivalent to the "911" emergency line in Jordan is 191. However, in some areas of Amman 911 may be dialed for emergencies.

Please see our information on victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.

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CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While you are traveling in Jordan, you are subject to its laws even if you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. In some places you may be taken in for questioning if you don't have your passport with you. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings. In some places driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail. These criminal penalties will vary from country to country. There are also some things that might be legal in the country you visit, but still illegal in the United States, and you can be prosecuted under U.S. law if you buy pirated goods. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime prosecutable in the United States. If you break local laws in Jordan, your U.S. passport won't help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It's very important to know what's legal and what's not where you are going.

The Jordanian constitution provides for freedom of speech and of the press; however, in practice the government has imposed some restrictions on these rights. In particular, insulting the King or members of the Royal Family may lead to detainment or imprisonment. Additionally, activities that the Jordanian government considers proselytizing to Muslims are forbidden under the law. Please see the information below on Islam as the state religion of Jordan. 

Based on the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, bilateral agreements with certain countries, and customary international law, if you are arrested in Jordan, you have the option to request that the police, prison officials, or other authorities alert the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate of your arrest, and to have communications from you forwarded to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

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SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Under Jordanian law any adult male may prevent a female or child relative from leaving Jordan by registering a hold on their travel with the Jordanian authorities. This is possible even if the child or woman only holds U.S. nationality. Jordanian authorities consider disputes surrounding travel holds as private family matters and the Embassy is limited in its ability to intervene. Please see the section below on Children's Issues.

U.S. citizens are subject to Jordanian laws while in Jordan. U.S. citizens who possess Jordanian nationality may also be subject to laws that impose special obligations on Jordanians. For example, all Jordanian men under the age of 37 are required to register for service in the Jordanian military. Those subject to registration may be prevented from leaving Jordan until exit permission is obtained from appropriate Jordanian authorities. This permission is often granted to U.S. citizens, but may take some time to obtain and may be limited to a single exit.

The Government of Jordan considers U.S.-Jordanian dual nationals to be Jordanian citizens. Local authorities typically do not notify the U.S. Embassy of arrests, detentions, or accidents involving dual nationals. For this reason, dual nationals are particularly encouraged to carry a copy of their U.S. passport with them at all times so that evidence of their identity and U.S. citizenship is readily available for local authorities. For additional information, see our information on Dual Nationality.

Islam is the state religion of Jordan. The Jordanian government generally does not interfere in religious practices. However, some religious groups cannot obtain legal recognition of their denominations. On official documents such as birth and wedding certificates, the Government of Jordan only allows affiliation with legally recognized faiths, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Not listing an affiliated faith, or listing a faith outside those recognized by the government, is not permitted. Activities such as proselytizing or encouraging conversion to any faith other than Islam are prohibited. U.S. citizens have been deported, detained, and arrested for discussing or trying to engage Jordanians in debate about religion.

Jordanian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Jordan of items such as drugs, firearms, poisons, chemicals, explosives, and pornographic materials, among other items. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in Washington, D.C., or one of the Jordanian consulates in the United States, for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please see our Customs Information.

The local work week for Jordanian government offices and most businesses is Sunday through Thursday.

Accessibility: While in Jordan, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. Outside of a few of the more expensive hotels in the capital, individuals with disabilities will find almost no accessible accommodations. Similarly there are very few accessible restaurants, shops, or historical sites. Transportation is not accessible, and sidewalks and crosswalks, even in the main cities, are not accessible. Handicap accessible toilets and bathrooms, even in major hospitals, are generally not available.

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MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Modern medical care and medicines are generally available in the principal cities of Jordan, but not necessarily in outlying areas. Most acute and chronic medical conditions can be appropriately managed. When called, ambulance vehicles are often slow to arrive and personnel generally have only a basic level of training. Seasonal dust storms that envelop the country for days or weeks each spring may significantly aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma or sinus problems. Most hospitals in Jordan, especially in Amman, are privately owned. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for services. Because serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States could cost over US $150,000, we strongly advise travelers to carry medical evacuation insurance.

You can find good information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information.

Travelers are advised to take normal precautions against contracting the flu, including frequent handwashing and covering sneezes. It is prudent to postpone traveling while ill.

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MEDICAL INSURANCE: You can't assume your insurance will go with you when you travel. It's very important to find out BEFORE you leave whether or not your medical insurance will cover you overseas. You need to ask your insurance company two questions:

  • Does my policy apply when I'm out of the U.S.?
  • Will it cover emergencies like a trip to a foreign hospital or an evacuation?

In many places, doctors and hospitals still expect payment in cash at the time of service. Your regular U.S. health insurance may not cover doctors' and hospital visits in other countries. If your policy doesn't go with you when you travel, it's a very good idea to take out another one for your trip. For more information, please see our medical insurance overseas page.

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TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in Jordan, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Jordan is provided for general reference only and may not be completely accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

It is typical for drivers in Jordan to not signal turns or lane changes. Drivers can also be aggressive and cars operate very closely together on the highways. Jordanian roads are particularly treacherous during the rainy season, which runs from December to March. City driving in Amman is also more hazardous in the summer months of June to September when Jordan experiences an influx of visitors from other countries in the region. Highways are more crowded around the Muslim holidays when many Jordanian expatriates return to Jordan for family visits. Poor lighting and road conditions prevail, so extra caution must be exercised at all times, especially when driving at night.

The Desert Highway outside Aqaba, a popular tourist destination, is particularly dangerous because it is narrow, winding, steep, and crowded with trucks. If possible, this area should be avoided at night. When driving in both urban and rural areas, motorists should beware of both unmarked speed bumps and livestock, including camels, sheep, and goats. Collisions between livestock and automobiles are common.

As a result of all these factors, traffic accidents are very frequent and continue to be the largest cause of injury and death in Jordan. Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts and all cars must have a fire extinguisher and warning triangle in the vehicle. Child car seats are not required by law. Violators of speed limits may be assessed fines up to US$140. Police routinely pull over reckless drivers as well as those believed to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Licensed drivers must carry local third-party insurance with sufficient coverage for accidents resulting in injury or death.

Landmines are often located within two miles of military installations and borders, including the popular Dead Sea area. Minefields are usually fenced off and marked with skull-and-crossbones notices, but the fences and signs may be in poor repair or hard to see. Avoiding these areas reduces the risk of accidentally setting off a mine.

Jordan has abundant bus and taxi services. Please see the Crime section for more information about incidents of sexual harassment and assault involving taxi drivers and important safety tips when using public or private transportation in Jordan. Visitors are encouraged to arrange for their transportation needs via their hotel and should request that drivers not pick up additional passengers en route to their destinations. Other forms of public transportation are not recommended. Jordanian security authorities often establish checkpoints, especially on roads leading to popular tourist destinations, where drivers are expected to stop and present their identity documents. All drivers should stop when directed to do so and comply with the instructions provided to them by the authorities.

Emergencies should be referred to the Civil Defense Department at telephone number 199. Visit the website of Jordan's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. For information on driving regulations please contact the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008, by telephone at (202) 966-2664.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.

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AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Jordan's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Jordan's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

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CHILDREN'S ISSUES: Please see our Office of Children's Issues web pages on intercountry adoption and international parental child abduction

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This replaces the Country Specific Information for Jordan dated December 20, 2010 to update the sections on Entry/Exit Requirements for U.S. Citizens, Threats to Safety and Security, Crime, Criminal Penalties, Special Circumstances, and Medical Facilities and Health Information.

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