Jordanian passport holders are no longer eligible for the UK ETA
Jordanian passport holders were removed from the UK eligibility list on September 10th 2024. However, if they have booked a trip to the UK before 15:00 BST 10/09/2024 and arrived in the UK before 08/10/2024 15:00 BST, then they will be allowed entry under the UK ETA programme.
Jordanian passport holders wishing to visit the UK without an ETA and outside the transition period terms, will need to apply for a Standard UK Visitor Visa.
The UK ETA’s issued to Jordanian passport holders be cancelled by 15:00 BST on October 8th 2024.
From February 2024, Jordanian citizens traveling to the UK were eligible to apply for a UK electronic travel authorization (ETA). It replaced the previous requirement, which is a Standard Visitor visa.
On September 10th 2024, the UK government announced that nationals of Jordan can no longer use an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK. Instead, they are required to apply for a visa. Those who have already booked travel before 10 September 2024 and are set to arrive before 8 October 2024 can still enter using an ETA. However, after 8 October 2024, all ETAs will be canceled, and individuals must apply for a visa for future visits.
Why was Jordan removed from the UK ETA Programme?
Jordan was removed from the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme due to concerns over migration and national security. The UK government periodically reviews its immigration rules to ensure they align with its goals of maintaining control over who enters the country. By requiring a visa instead of an ETA, the UK can implement stricter checks on Jordanian nationals, ensuring that only those who meet specific criteria are allowed entry. This change is part of a broader policy to enhance border security and manage immigration more effectively.
What influenced the UK government’s decision?
The statistics that influenced the UK’s decision to remove Jordan from the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme were driven by a significant increase in asylum claims. In 2022, asylum claims from Jordanian nationals surged, with many deemed unfounded or not meeting the necessary criteria for refugee status. This spike in claims raised concerns among UK officials about potential abuse of the system, prompting stricter entry requirements for Jordanian nationals to control irregular migration and enhance security. These changes reflect a broader effort to protect the integrity of the UK’s immigration system.
Could Jordan ever re-join the UK ETA programme?
Jordan could potentially rejoin the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme in the future, but this would depend on a range of factors. The decision to reinstate Jordan under the ETA would likely hinge on a significant reduction in asylum claims and overall compliance with UK immigration policies. Improvements in Jordan’s internal conditions, particularly regarding migration patterns and cooperation on security matters, would also be critical. If these concerns are adequately addressed, the UK government might consider reassessing Jordan’s eligibility for the ETA. However, no timeline for such a reassessment has been provided.