Jordan eases visa rules for Indians

It was announced by the Jordan Investment Commission on 12 February that as per a statement published in Petra, the Jordan News Agency, Indians can hereafter obtain visas directly through diplomatic missions of Jordan or get a visa on arrival in the West Asian country.

Mohammad Samih, the JSTA (Jordan Society of Tourism and Travel Agents) President, was quoted by The Jordan Times as lauding the measure, which, he felt, would increase the numbers of Indian visitors to their country. He said that JSTA welcomed any step that encourages tourists to come in increasing numbers.

Fadi Abu Arish, a travel agent, said that the step would increase the tourist numbers from India, as it will stimulate the South Asian country’s individuals and travel agencies to arrange trips to Jordan. He said that as Gulf countries welcome a large number of Indian tourists, relaxing visa rules will also influence them to visit The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan over weekends or holidays. Abu Arish also felt that Indians could also now organize trips at the last minute to their country.

He said that although Indian nationals were not under restrictions earlier, they had to take care of some procedures before arriving such as securing Interior Ministry’s written permission. The guide needed to show the permission to authorities at the airport or the crossing, which no longer would be needed.

Jordanian travel agents said most of the Indians who visit their country are pilgrims, who want to visit religious sites such as Mount Nebo and the Baptism Site.

Abu Arish added that they could arrange trips that include their country with an extension of a couple of days to Jerusalem and other religious places in the West Bank.

If you are looking to travel to Jordan, talk to Y-Axis, the world’s no.1 immigration and visa consultancy, to apply for a tourist visa.