UK suspends electronic visa system for Jordanians

AMMAN — The British Embassy in Amman has officially informed the Jordanian government of the UK’s decision to suspend the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for Jordanian citizens, effective from September 10, 2024, the Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday.

The system was introduced earlier this year to simplify visa procedures for Jordanians travelling to the UK, according to a ministry statement.

Ministry Spokesperson Sufyan Qudah said that the decision was communicated in a letter from the UK Home Secretary to Jordan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. 

British authorities cited "abuse and violations of the system" by some Jordanian travellers as reasons for the suspension, the statement said.

Qudah emphasised that the ministry, through the Jordanian Embassy in London, had held discussions with British officials to address concerns about violations of UK immigration and residency rules by Jordanian citizens. 

Despite these efforts, persistent breaches led UK authorities to revert to the previous standard visa process, which was in effect before the ETA system was introduced in February, Qudah added.

Qudah said that the suspension is subject to review, with ongoing dialogue between both sides aimed at reinstating the electronic visa system under revised conditions.

Highlighting the ministry's efforts to improve the international ranking of the Jordanian passport, Qudah said that since 2017, these efforts have resulted in a ten-point improvement in the Henley and Partners passport index, making it easier for Jordanian citizens to travel. 

The ministry also expressed commitment to further improving the passport's international standing.