Jordan eVisa vs Jordan Pass – Key Differences Explained
Choosing between the Jordan eVisa and the Jordan Pass is one of the most common questions from travelers planning a trip to Jordan. This guide breaks down both options clearly so you can make the right decision for your trip. Spoiler: for most tourists planning to visit Petra, the Jordan Pass is the better value.
What Is the Jordan eVisa?
The Jordan eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization issued by Jordan’s Ministry of Interior. It grants entry into Jordan for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It does NOT include any attraction tickets. For the full guide, see our Jordan eVisa guide.
- Cost: JOD 40 (~$56 USD)
- Validity: 3 months to 5 years depending on type
- Purpose: Entry authorization only
- Where to get: Online at eservices.moi.gov.jo or on arrival
What Is the Jordan Pass?
The Jordan Pass is a tourist package that includes two key benefits:
- Visa fee waiver: Completely free entry visa (saving JOD 40 = ~$56)
- Attraction tickets: Prepaid access to 40+ Jordan attractions including Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, and more
The Jordan Pass must be purchased ONLINE before arrival at jordanpass.jo. It is not available on arrival or at attractions.
Jordan Pass types and prices:
- Jordan Trail Pass: JOD 70 (~$99) – includes 1-day Petra
- Jordan Wonder Pass: JOD 75 (~$106) – includes 2-day Petra
- Jordan Explorer Pass: JOD 80 (~$113) – includes 3-day Petra
The Visa Fee Waiver Condition
The Jordan Pass only waives the visa fee if you stay in Jordan for at least 3 consecutive nights. If you stay fewer than 3 nights, you still pay the JOD 40 visa fee separately upon arrival.
Jordan eVisa vs Jordan Pass: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Jordan eVisa | Jordan Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Entry visa | Yes | Yes (visa fee waived for 3+ night stays) |
| Petra entry | No (JOD 50 extra) | Yes (1, 2, or 3 days included) |
| 40+ attractions | No | Yes |
| Minimum cost | JOD 40 (~$56) | JOD 70 (~$99) |
| Value for tourists | Good for short/non-tourist visits | Excellent for sightseers |
| Must buy in advance? | Yes (or on arrival) | Yes, must be before arrival |
| Minimum stay required | None | 3 nights for visa fee waiver |
Who Should Get the Jordan eVisa?
- Business travelers not visiting tourist sites
- Transit passengers
- Travelers staying fewer than 3 nights
- Budget travelers doing DIY sightseeing without Petra or with their own discounts
- Those visiting Jordan for work, conferences, or medical reasons
Who Should Get the Jordan Pass?
- Tourists planning to visit Petra (saves JOD 50+ on Petra alone)
- First-time visitors wanting to see Jordan’s top highlights
- Travelers staying 3+ nights (visa fee effectively waived)
- Anyone visiting multiple heritage sites (Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Wadi Rum, etc.)
Value Calculation Example
Typical tourist visiting Jordan for 5 nights, visiting Petra (1 day), Wadi Rum, and Jerash:
- Without Jordan Pass: JOD 40 (visa) + JOD 50 (Petra 1 day) + JOD 5 (Wadi Rum) + JOD 3 (Jerash) = JOD 98
- With Jordan Trail Pass: JOD 70 (includes visa + Petra + 40 attractions) = JOD 70
- Savings: JOD 28 (~$40) PLUS many additional attractions included
For the application process for a standalone eVisa, see our how to apply guide. See our requirements page and fee guide for full eVisa details.
Does the Jordan Pass replace the Jordan eVisa?
Yes and no. The Jordan Pass includes visa authorization (replacing the need for a separate eVisa) for stays of 3+ consecutive nights. For shorter stays, you still need to pay the visa fee. Think of Jordan Pass as a combined tourist package that includes a visa as one component.
Can I buy the Jordan Pass on arrival?
No. The Jordan Pass MUST be purchased online at jordanpass.jo BEFORE arrival in Jordan. If you buy it after arrival, the visa fee waiver does not apply.
Is the Jordan Pass worth it for a 2-day trip?
For a 2-day trip, the Jordan Pass may not be the best value since you miss out on the visa fee waiver (requires 3+ nights). However, if you plan to visit Petra (JOD 50), the Jordan Wonder Pass (JOD 75 with 2-day Petra) may still save money depending on what other sites you visit.
Do children need a Jordan Pass?
Children under 12 generally receive free or discounted entry to most Jordan attractions. For children, a separate Jordan Pass is usually not needed – check the Jordan Pass website for current child policies.
Can I use Jordan Pass and Jordan eVisa together?
No, you should not apply for both. If you purchase a Jordan Pass, it serves as your visa authorization. Applying separately for an eVisa as well would be unnecessary duplication.
What attractions are included in the Jordan Pass?
The Jordan Pass includes 40+ sites including Petra (1-3 days depending on pass type), Wadi Rum (standard entry), Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Kerak Castle, Um Qais, Bethany Beyond the Jordan, and many others. Check jordanpass.jo for the current complete list.