Living in Jordan: the ultimate expat guide

Choosing your residence in Jordan depends on professional priorities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences. The vast majority of expatriates settle in Amman, the capital, though other cities offer interesting alternatives.

Amman, the Cosmopolitan Capital

Nearly one in three Jordanians lives in Amman, approximately 3.2 million inhabitants. The city sprawls across several hills (jebels) and neighborhoods with distinct characters.

West Amman - Expatriate Neighborhoods: Abdoun, Sweifieh, Deir Ghbar, and Shmeisani districts concentrate the majority of the international community. These areas host international schools, modern shopping centers, varied restaurants, quality medical services, and maximum security. Rents are higher but quality of life is optimal for expatriate families.

Jabal Amman and Jabal Weibdeh: These historic neighborhoods attract art and culture enthusiasts. Jabal Weibdeh is a pleasant residential neighborhood housing cultural institutions, art galleries, and trendy cafes. The atmosphere is more bohemian, with beautiful old houses and picturesque alleys.

Central and East Amman: The lower city to the east, dominated by beautiful Roman ruins, presents disorder and crowds in narrow streets evoking Oriental dreams. These neighborhoods are more popular and authentic but less favored by expatriates for residence.

Aqaba, the Seaside City

Located on the Red Sea, Aqaba attracts with warmer climate, beaches, and water activities. The city offers different quality of life from Amman, with a more relaxed pace. Professional opportunities are more limited, mainly in tourism, port logistics, and free zones. It's an option for remote workers or retirees seeking sun and sea.

Advantages: Pleasant temperatures year-round, exceptional scuba diving, proximity to Wadi Rum and Petra, slightly lower cost of living than Amman, welcoming expatriate community.

Irbid, University City of the North

Irbid, Jordan's second city, hosts several universities and benefits from cooler climate than Amman. The city is less cosmopolitan but offers more authentic living environment and affordable rents. Proximity to archaeological sites like Jerash and Umm Qais, attractive cost of living, dynamic student life, but fewer international infrastructures and distance from main business centers.

Madaba and Dead Sea Region

Madaba, 30 km southwest of Amman, is a peaceful small town known for Byzantine mosaics. Some expatriates reside there, appreciating Dead Sea proximity and provincial life tranquility. The Dead Sea region hosts several luxury hotel complexes where some expatriates find employment opportunities in hospitality and wellness.

Criteria for Choosing Your Residence

1. Professional opportunities: Amman concentrates most expatriate jobs, particularly in NGOs, international companies, and banking and technology sectors.
2. Children's education: Quality international schools are mainly found in Amman, including several well-regarded establishments.
3. Lifestyle: Amman offers modern urban environment, Aqaba a seaside setting, small towns a more traditional atmosphere.
4. Budget: West Amman rents can be high, while other cities offer more affordable housing costs.
5. Climate: Amman benefits from temperate climate with cool winters, Aqaba from hot desert climate year-round.

Most expatriates ultimately choose Amman for its centrality, infrastructure, and opportunities, while enjoying weekend escapes to Petra, the Dead Sea, or Aqaba, facilitated by short distances in Jordan.

Relocating to Jordan requires following precise administrative procedures. Jordanian embassies and consulates abroad no longer issue visas. Documentation is now obtained primarily upon arrival or online.

Tourist Visa and Entry Requirements

To enter Jordan, you must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) online through the official Jordanian Ministry of Interior website or upon arrival at entry points. The cost of a single-entry visa is JOD 40 (approximately USD 56). Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in Jordan.

Cost-effective alternative: The Jordan Pass combines visa fees and entry to 40 major tourist sites, provided you stay at least 3 nights in the kingdom. This option is particularly attractive for discovering the country before settling permanently.

Visa Extension and Residence Permits

To renew the one-month entry visa, visit the nearest police station to your residence for an initial two-month extension, then the Department of Foreigners for a second three-month extension. Beyond six months, you must obtain a tourism visa extension and apply for a resident card by justifying your activity or resources. A medical examination is required in this process.

Work Permits

Only work permit holders can be employed by companies in Jordan. Issued by the Ministry of Labour and renewable annually, employers must justify to authorities why they need to hire a foreigner rather than a Jordanian citizen. Certain professions remain closed to expatriates, particularly in administration, retail, and some medical sectors.

Investor Residence Card

It's possible to obtain a resident card as an investor. This requires obtaining a professional permit from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, then registering with the commercial registry. The residence permit costs JOD 30.

Practical Tips

1. Plan your procedures at least 3 weeks before departure.
2. Keep copies of all administrative documents.
3. Multiple-entry visas available online are also obtainable upon arrival at the airport.
4. International embassies in Amman can guide you through procedures if needed.

Jordan's job market presents opportunities for qualified expatriates, particularly in specific sectors. However, Jordanian employment legislation is quite strict regarding foreigners, aiming to provide maximum employment opportunities to the local population.

Employment Market Overview

The labour force participation rate is very low at 34.1% in 2024, particularly for women (14.9% in 2024). Informal employment remains predominant in the country, representing 53.2% of total employment according to the International Labour Organization. Jordan's employment rate decreased from 26.80% in Q4 2024 to 25.90% in Q1 2025, reflecting local labour market challenges.

Industry (textiles, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers) represents over 25% of GDP. Textiles and fertilizers are the kingdom's most important exports respectively. The mining sector also performs well, with Jordan being one of the world's largest phosphate exporters.

Growth Sectors for Expatriates

Information Technology: IT professionals are among the most sought-after and highest-paid professionals in Jordan. Jordanian IT outsourcing centers serve clients worldwide.

Construction and Engineering: The construction sector is one of the most promising segments of Jordanian industry. Jobs in this field are available for qualified engineers and architects.

Tourism: The most accessible professions for foreigners in Jordan are related to tourism, which has become an important revenue source for the state budget.

Finance and Services: The Jordanian economy relies on the banking sector (the first Arab bank is Jordanian), tourism, commerce, and real estate.

Salaries and Working Conditions

As of May 1, 2025, the average salary in Jordan is USD 890 (approximately JOD 450-500). Salaries vary considerably by sector:

1. Information Technology: USD 680 to USD 1,640 monthly
2. Design: USD 805 to USD 1,090 monthly
3. Marketing: USD 480 to USD 765 monthly
4. Accounting and Finance: USD 735 to USD 1,430 monthly

Starting Your Own Business

For entrepreneurs, it's possible to obtain a resident card as an investor by obtaining a professional permit from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, then registering with the commercial registry. Jordan encourages foreign investment, particularly in priority sectors like renewable energy and technology.

Key Employment Figures

Sources: Direction générale du Trésor 2024, Trading Economics 2025, BDEX May 2025

Jordan's property market, particularly in Amman, offers housing variety for all budgets. Depending on neighborhoods and standards, you'll find 2-bedroom apartments between USD 425 and USD 2,120. Finding accommodation requires good knowledge of neighborhoods and local specifics.

Available Housing Types

Apartments: The most common housing form in Amman. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs an average of JOD 238 monthly (approximately USD 336), while outside the center, average rent is JOD 168 (approximately USD 237). For a three-bedroom apartment, expect JOD 405 in the city center (approximately USD 572) and JOD 301 outside the center (approximately USD 425).

Villas: Popular with affluent expatriate families, villas offer more space and often a garden. Rents can reach several thousand dinars depending on neighborhood and standard.

Shared accommodation: House-sharing can be a solution for smaller budgets, with rooms up to USD 565.

Popular Amman Neighborhoods

Abdoun: Upscale residential neighborhood in west Amman, highly appreciated by expatriates. It houses embassies, international schools, and numerous restaurants. Rents are among the capital's highest.

Sweifieh: Modern shopping district, close to international schools. It offers a good compromise between amenities and prices. An excellent neighborhood with many nearby shops, including a real cheese shop and butcher.

Deir Ghbar: Quiet residential sector where French international primary school is located, appreciated by international families.

Jabal Amman and Jabal Weibdeh: Older neighborhoods with much charm, appreciated for their artistic and cultural atmosphere. Jabal Weibdeh is a pleasant residential neighborhood housing cultural institutions and art galleries.

Shmeisani: Business and residential district, rather upscale, well-located with many offices and hotels.

Rental Process

1. Search: The best approach is choosing your neighborhood then walking around and asking concierges who can advise and direct you to vacant properties. Websites and real estate agencies are also useful.
2. Viewing: Visit several properties to compare. Ensure your building is equipped with a water reservoir, as water cuts can occur.
3. Negotiation: Rent is often negotiable, especially for long-term leases.
4. Contract: Leases are generally one year, renewable. A deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent is standard.
5. Utilities: Verify what's included in rent (water, electricity, security, common area maintenance).

Buying Property

Expatriates can buy property in Jordan under certain conditions. The square meter price for buying a city center apartment averages JOD 80.33 (approximately USD 113), and JOD 53.15 outside the center (approximately USD 75). Property investment can be interesting for long-term stays, especially as the Jordanian market is relatively stable.

Practical Tips

1. Budget: Plan 20% to 30% of your income for housing.
2. Location: Prioritize proximity to your workplace and children's school to limit commuting.
3. Furnished or unfurnished: Both options exist. Furnished costs more but facilitates installation.
4. Property inspection: Conduct detailed inspections at move-in and move-out.

The cost of living in Jordan is, on average, 43.7% lower than in the United States, offering interesting purchasing power for expatriates with international salaries. However, Amman ranks among the most expensive Arab cities with a 39.6-point score according to Numbeo's 2025 index. Here's a detailed overview of monthly expenses based on July 2025 data.

Monthly Budget for Single Person

Monthly Budget for Family of 4

Reference Prices (July 2025)

Food:

1. White bread (500g): JOD 0.32 (USD 0.45)
2. Milk (1 liter): JOD 1.02 (USD 1.44)
3. Eggs (12): JOD 1.53 (USD 2.16)
4. Chicken (1 kg): JOD 3.70 (USD 5.22)
5. Beef (1 kg): JOD 7.32 (USD 10.33)

Restaurants:

1. Budget restaurant meal: JOD 4.50 (USD 6.35)
2. Mid-range restaurant for 2: JOD 35 (USD 49)
3. Cappuccino: JOD 2.49 (USD 3.52)

Transportation:

1. Bus ticket: JOD 0.55 (USD 0.78)
2. Monthly transport pass: JOD 30 (USD 42)
3. Gasoline (1 liter): JOD 0.97 (USD 1.37)
4. Taxi start: JOD 0.50 (USD 0.71)

Sources: Numbeo Jordan - July 2025

Jordan is recognized for healthcare quality, though it's important to note that major healthcare systems are concentrated in the capital, Amman. Expatriates benefit from access to quality medical infrastructure, particularly in the private sector.

The Jordanian Healthcare System

Jordan's healthcare system includes 27 public hospitals and over 1,200 primary care facilities. There are also 71 private hospitals, offering expatriates wide choice. Jordan hosts a world-renowned cancer treatment center, the King Hussein Cancer Center, along with other high-quality care establishments.

Public healthcare in Jordan is heavily subsidized but not entirely free. To access health services, certain procedures must first be followed. When starting employment as an expatriate, your employer must send documentation with your passport within 15 days of your start date.

International Health Insurance

It's highly recommended to have an assistance contract or insurance covering all medical costs (surgery, hospitalization) and medical repatriation, as you risk not having access to care, even in life-threatening emergencies.

Insurance options:

1. First-dollar international insurance: comprehensive coverage without deductibles, suitable for long-term expatriates.
2. Expatriate insurance plans: various international providers offer comprehensive coverage specifically designed for expatriates.
3. Local insurance: after registering with the public system, you can subscribe to local supplementary coverage.

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

Before departure, ensure you're up to date with routine vaccinations (DTP, MMR). Depending on regions visited and type of stay planned, other vaccines may be necessary: typhoid fever, viral hepatitis A and B, rabies.

Basic hygiene rules:

1. Don't drink tap water.
2. Wash hands regularly.
3. Avoid foods with questionable preservation or cooking.
4. Protect yourself from the sun, particularly during summer months.

Healthcare Access

Amman, as Jordan's medical hub, offers an extensive range of high-quality healthcare services. Expatriates and visitors generally have better access to care in this city. For routine care, many private clinics offer consultations with English-speaking doctors.

Private hospitals in Amman offer service levels comparable to international standards, with medical staff often trained abroad. Wait times are generally short and reception of foreign patients is facilitated.

In emergencies, dial 911 (Jordan's unified emergency number) or go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room. Fees must be paid on-site, hence the importance of having insurance with direct payment guarantees.

Jordan's tax system has undergone significant reforms in recent years to modernize income taxation. Expatriates need to understand both local tax obligations and potential commitments in their home countries.

Personal Income Tax

The Jordanian taxation system provides progressive brackets: 5% on the first JOD 5,000 of taxable income, 10% on the next JOD 5,000, 15% on the third JOD 5,000, and 20% on the fourth JOD 5,000. The maximum personal income tax rate in Jordan is 30% for the highest earners.

Exemption thresholds: An exemption threshold of JOD 9,000 to JOD 10,000 applies for individuals and JOD 20,000 to JOD 23,000 for households, plus a maximum exemption amount of JOD 3,000 covering only three family members for health, education, and rent.

Taxes in Jordan are directly deducted at source, with rates varying from 7% to 14% depending on salary amount starting from JOD 12,000 annually.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

VAT is 16% for most products. This tax applies to the majority of goods and services consumed in Jordan.

International Tax Treaties

Jordan has signed double taxation avoidance agreements with numerous countries, including tax treaties with the United Kingdom, United States, and other major economies. These conventions allow nationals to avoid being taxed twice on the same income. Understanding these treaty provisions is essential for optimizing your tax situation.

Tax Obligations for International Expatriates

Tax residency determines your obligations in your home country. If you become a Jordanian tax resident, you'll only be taxed in your home country on income sourced there. Key steps include:

1. Inform your home country's tax authorities of your address change.
2. Declare income earned in your home country from January 1 to your departure date.
3. Declare foreign bank accounts as required by your home country.
4. Consult an international tax expert to optimize your situation.

Other Taxes

There are several other taxes including property taxes. Property owners must pay annual property tax, the amount depending on the property's value and location.

For entrepreneurs, specific taxes apply depending on business type and legal structure chosen. It's recommended to consult a local accountant to ensure your company's tax compliance.

Jordan offers several educational options for expatriate families, with quality international schools, particularly in Amman. The Jordanian education system coexists with a network of international establishments offering different curricula.

French International School of Amman

The Lycée Français International d'Amman is a school managed by a parents' association, partnered with the Agency for French Education Abroad. The establishment provides uninterrupted education from kindergarten to baccalauréat, accredited by the French Ministry of National Education.

School highlights:

1. Accepts children from age 2
2. Mandatory Arabic and English teaching from cycle 1
3. Access to integration class for arriving allophone students (UPE2A)
4. Library documentation center with over four thousand volumes
5. Over thirty extracurricular activities, creative and sports

Location: The school has two sites: the middle-high school on the airport road in Al-Yadoodeh, and the primary school in Deir Ghbar.

Tuition fees: School fees range from USD 2,525 to USD 5,940 depending on grade levels.

Other International Schools in Amman

International schools are very popular in Jordan. These schools generally offer different programs, the most popular being British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB).

Among reputable establishments:

1. American Community School: follows American curriculum
2. British School of Amman: offers British education system
3. International Community School: provides International Baccalaureate program
4. King's Academy: boarding school of excellence following Anglo-Saxon model

Jordanian Education System

Local Jordanian schools, public or private, follow the national curriculum in Arabic. Some private schools offer bilingual Arabic-English education. This option suits families seeking complete cultural immersion or planning long-term stays.

Enrollment Tips

1. Plan ahead: Places in top international schools are limited, register several months in advance.
2. Visit schools: Organize visits to evaluate facilities and meet teaching teams.
3. Budget: Include tuition fees, extracurricular activities, and transportation in your family budget.
4. Verify recognition: Ensure diplomas awarded are recognized in your home country.

An international move to Jordan requires rigorous organization and anticipation of procedures. Whether this is your first expatriation or not, this checklist will guide you through all installation steps in the Hashemite Kingdom.

Complete Moving Checklist

3 to 6 months before departure:

1. Administrative documents: Verify passport validity (minimum 6 months), gather birth certificates, family records, diplomas, and medical certificates.
2. Visa and work permit: Begin procedures for your visa and work permit in coordination with your employer.
3. Housing: Start online searches, contact Amman real estate agencies, or plan a reconnaissance visit.
4. Education: Enroll your children in chosen schools, as places in international establishments are limited.
5. Health insurance: Subscribe to international health insurance covering Jordan, essential for accessing best care.
6. International mover: Request multiple quotes and choose a specialized mover in Middle East expatriations.

1 to 2 months before departure:

1. Banking: Inform your bank of your expatriation, verify card usage conditions abroad, and possibly open a multi-currency account.
2. Taxes: Report your address change to tax authorities and inquire about your declaration obligations.
3. Subscription cancellations: Cancel or suspend contracts (electricity, internet, phone, local insurance).
4. Social security: Inform your social security office and evaluate expatriate health coverage options.
5. Vaccinations: Review with your doctor and complete necessary boosters.
6. Driver's license: Research requirements for an international license and procedures for obtaining a Jordanian license.

Final weeks:

1. Sorting and packing: Sort belongings, sell or donate what you won't take, and prepare boxes with the mover.
2. Detailed inventory: Establish a precise inventory of belongings for customs and insurance.
3. Documents to carry: Prepare a folder with all important documents (passports, contracts, diplomas, health records).
4. Local currency: Arrange some Jordanian dinars for the first days, though ATMs are available at the airport.
5. Consular registration: Register with your embassy or consulate in Jordan.
6. Travel advisories: Register with your government's travel advisory service to be contacted during crises.

Upon Arrival in Jordan

1. Visa obtainment: At Queen Alia Airport, present your passport and pay visa fees (JOD 40) unless you have a Jordan Pass.
2. Transfer: Reach your accommodation via official taxi or pre-booked transfer service.
3. Installation: Collect keys, complete property inspection, and begin settling in.
4. Local administrative procedures: Within 15 days, begin procedures for your resident card and local social security registration.
5. Local bank account: Open an account with a Jordanian bank to facilitate daily transactions.
6. Local SIM card: Main operators (Zain, Orange, Umniah) offer plans suitable for expatriates.
7. Orientation: Take time to discover your neighborhood, locate essential shops, pharmacies, and medical centers.

Successful expatriation is built on thorough preparation. Don't hesitate to join online expatriate groups to benefit from practical advice and build your network before arrival!

Jordan is a land of history and adventure offering incredible variety of activities for expatriates. Between world-renowned archaeological sites, majestic deserts, and Red Sea beaches, the kingdom provides exceptional heritage within weekend reach.

Petra, the Nabataean City

You'll traverse the Siq, a narrow, long fissure caused by a prehistoric earthquake. At the Siq's end suddenly appears Petra's most majestic monument, Al Khazneh or the Treasury with Greco-Roman decoration. UNESCO World Heritage listed and elected among the seven new wonders of the world, Petra is an absolute must-see. Beyond the Treasury, there are hundreds of carved buildings, temples, Royal Tombs, houses, burial chambers, banquet halls, baths, monumental staircases, and the Roman Theatre seating approximately 3,000. Plan a full day to explore this fascinating site.

Wadi Rum, Bedouin Desert

Wadi Rum, vast, echoing, and marked by divine presence, offers grandiose landscapes of cliffs, peaks, and desert valleys. Wadi Rum's sumptuous rock formations provide magnificent hiking terrain. In this desert of pink sandstone and golden sand, lights and shadows play endlessly from dawn to sunset. Possible activities: hiking, 4x4 excursions, camping under stars, rock climbing, and even hot air balloon flights.

Dead Sea, Unique Experience

Just 50 km from Amman, the Dead Sea offers an unforgettable natural flotation experience thanks to exceptional salinity. Its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic mud also make it a wellness destination. Numerous hotel complexes provide beach access with restaurants and pools.

Jerash, Roman Jewel

Hidden under sand for centuries before rediscovery, Jerash ruins were miraculously preserved then restored. This makes Jerash Jordan's most spectacular Greco-Roman site and among the world's best preserved. About an hour north of Amman, this ancient site impresses with colonnades, theatre, temples, and triumphal arch.

Aqaba and the Red Sea

Jordan's only maritime access, Aqaba attracts water sports enthusiasts. The city offers excellent conditions for scuba diving and snorkeling, with preserved coral reefs and abundant marine life. It's also the departure point for excursions to nearby Wadi Rum.

Madaba and Mount Nebo

Madaba, the mosaic city, houses the famous Holy Land map in Saint George's Church. Mount Nebo, biblical site where Moses would have contemplated the Promised Land, offers exceptional panorama over the Jordan Valley and Jerusalem in clear weather.

Activities in Amman

The Jordanian capital offers numerous cultural and leisure activities:

1. The Citadel: Archaeological site overlooking the city with Hercules Temple and Umayyad Palace.
2. Roman Theatre: Ancient monument accommodating 6,000 spectators, still used for events.
3. Rainbow Street: Lively artery with cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and craft shops.
4. Downtown souks: Traditional markets for spices, textiles, jewelry, and local products.
5. Modern shopping centers: Abdali Mall, Taj Mall, City Mall offer shopping, restaurants, and cinemas.
6. French Institute of Jordan: Offers language courses, official certificates, and cultural events throughout the year.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

Jordan offers exceptional playground for outdoor sports enthusiasts: hiking in wadis (canyons), mountain biking, rock climbing, canyoning, and even ultralight or paragliding flights. Dana Nature Reserve and Wadi Mujib are particularly popular with hikers.

For families, numerous parks and leisure spaces allow children to thrive. Sports clubs offer tennis, swimming, fitness, and children's activities. Amman's dining scene constantly enriches with new restaurants offering international cuisine and Levantine specialties.

Jordan offers expatriates a unique experience combining regional stability, cultural richness, and quality of life. This millennial kingdom, guardian of world-renowned archaeological treasures, is an excellent destination for those seeking secure living in the heart of the Middle East.

Major Advantages

The kingdom benefits from a well-deserved reputation for stability in a complex region. Jordanian hospitality is legendary, and the welcome extended to expatriates is particularly warm. The capital Amman provides modern infrastructure with quality international schools, excellent private hospitals, and a varied dining scene.

The cost of living remains competitive compared to Western standards, particularly for housing outside city centers and food. Jordan's strategic geographic position facilitates travel throughout the region, with direct flights to Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Challenges to Anticipate

The Jordanian job market protects local employment, making opportunities more selective for expatriates. The most accessible sectors are information technology, engineering, tourism, and international organizations. The Arabic language, while not essential daily thanks to widespread English use, represents an asset for complete integration.

The climate can surprise: while Amman enjoys hot summers and cool winters with occasional snow, summer heat in the desert and Aqaba requires adaptation. Water is a precious resource in Jordan, one of the world's most arid countries.

Prepare Your Installation

Successful expatriation relies on thorough preparation. Anticipate administrative procedures, particularly for visas and work permits. Subscribe to comprehensive international health insurance before departure. If you have children, register them quickly in your chosen school, as places are limited in international establishments. Plan an adjustment period, particularly if this is your first Middle East expatriation.

Join the Community

The international community in Jordan, while diverse, is active and supportive. Various associations regularly organize events facilitating newcomer integration. Cultural centers constitute important meeting points.

Don't hesitate to join expat.com to exchange with other expatriates, ask questions, and share your experience. The platform helps you find practical answers and build your network before arrival.

An Enriching Human Adventure

Beyond practical aspects, expatriation to Jordan represents a formidable human adventure. You'll discover a millennial culture, savory cuisine, and above all, remarkably kind people. Jordanians are very welcoming, unlike anything encountered elsewhere, numerous expatriates testify.

Archaeological treasures – from Petra to Wadi Rum through Jerash – never cease to amaze. The ease of weekend travel to extraordinary sites constitutes a rare privilege. Whether attracted by ancient history, desert landscapes, Red Sea water sports, or simply discovering a new culture, Jordan will surprise and enrich you.

Welcome to Jordan, and don't forget to join our community on expat.com to make the most of this beautiful adventure!