a day ago
Jordan to launch electronic passport pilot in September
AMMAN — Jordan is advancing its digital transformation agenda with the introduction of an electronic passport, set to enter its pilot phase in September.
Unveiled at the Government Communication Forum under the theme 'Digital Transformation System and the Issuance of the Electronic Passport,' the initiative aims to streamline government services and enhance security standards.
Director General of the Civil Status and Passports Department Ghaith Tayyib said that the new passport would feature a polycarbonate data page, embedded with invisible security elements to prevent forgery and tampering, in line with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation.
Citizens would be able to apply for the e-passport through the Sanad application or the department's electronic services portal, with approved passports delivered by Jordan Post within 72 hours. Officials say the process would improve efficiency and reduce administrative burdens for citizens both inside and outside the Kingdom.
Tayyib described the September pilot phase as a 'qualitative leap' in Jordan's digital service delivery, highlighting the government's commitment to modernising procedures and aligning with global technological advancements.
The department also noted broader achievements in digitalisation and civil documentation. Over 135,000 identification cards have been issued to children of Jordanian women married to non-Jordanians, facilitating access to government services and strengthening civil rights.
Under Royal directives supporting the resilience of Jerusalemites, the department has also delegated the Sharia Court in Jerusalem to process applications, resulting in 116,000 passports issued to city residents.
Currently, the Civil Status and Passports Department provides 25 electronic services, covering roughly 80 per cent of its annual transactions. The e-passport is seen as an extension of this digital expansion and a cornerstone of Jordan's future service framework, Tayyib said.
By integrating advanced security features with digital accessibility, the e-passport project reflects Jordan's wider ambition to embed technology in governance while upholding citizens' rights and meeting international obligations.
