Jordan embassies

Embassy of Jordan, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 966 2664

Embassy of Jordan, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7937 3685

Embassy of Jordan, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 8090

Embassy of Jordan, Canberra, Australia: +61 2 6295 9951

Embassy of Jordan, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 346 8615

Foreign embassies in Jordan

United States Embassy, Amman: +962 6 590 6000

British Embassy, Amman: +962 6 590 9200

Canadian Embassy, Amman: +962 6 520 3300

Australian Embassy, Amman: +962 6 580 7000

South African Embassy, Amman: +962 6 592 1194

Irish Honorary Consulate, Amman: +962 6 553 3616

Moving to to another country can become a stressful and time-consuming exercise. Fortunately there are some excellent relocation companies that operate in Jordan that can help expats settle in. They offer many more services than conventional removals companies, who purely focus on the shipping of goods. Relocation companies make the transition easier by providing a full suite of services for employees and their families who are moving to Jordan including pre-departure information, neighbourhood orientation, accommodation and real-estate services, school search and much more.

Here is a list of recommended relocation companies operating in Jordan.

Relocation companies in Jordan

Local companies

HelpXpat Relocation HelpXpat is based in Dubai and offers  a full suite of relocation services for people moving to Jordan, such as home finding, schools search, immigration and work permit application. They also work with a number reliable moving companies, to ensure that your belongings safely arrive in Jordan. Moving to a Jordan can be a stressful and bureaucratic exercise, and HelpXpat can help ensure your move is as seamless as possible.  Website: www.helpxpat.com

GAC International Moving GAC International Moving has a wide network across the Middle East. Their relocation professionals provide quality door-to-door mobility services and moving assistance, including home and school searches, pet relocation and freight services. GAC International Moving delivers a stress-free experience when moving to Jordan. Website: moving.gac.com

International companies

K2 Corporate Mobility K2 Corporate Mobility provides personalised relocation packages to support domestic and international transfers, both short-term and long-term. Operating globally with streamlined efficient and individualised services, K2 Corporate Mobility is worth considering when moving to Jordan. Website: www.k2corporatemobility.com

NuCompass Mobility NuCompass is an international firm with over 50 years of experience helping companies relocate. Expert-led services help organisations, employees and their families effectively manage their relocations to Jordan. Through effective technological procedures and solutions, NuCompass provides specialised support throughout the moving process, tailored to individual needs. Website: www.nucompass.com

With a strategic location in the Middle East – sharing borders with Israel, Saudi Arabia, Syria and Iraq – Jordan is home to one the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is also one of the most popular expat destinations in the region. It is also rather beautiful, with the stark and rocky desert scapes of the northern Arabian peninsula complementing the old-world charm of much of the country's architecture perfectly.

Living in Jordan as an expat

Phosphate mines in southern Jordan have made the country one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of this mineral, while agricultural produce is another large contributor to the economy. Besides mining, oil and gas, expats tend to work for international companies in IT, communications, transport and investment, while some teach English. 

Newcomers to Jordan should be aware that Islam is the state religion. Nevertheless, Jordan is one of the most liberal countries in the Middle East and expats are unlikely to face discrimination for practising a religion other than Islam. Expats should, however, show respect for local customs and etiquette – women, in particular, should dress modestly and preferably wear their hair up or cover it with a headscarf. 

That said, expats tend to live a sheltered life in Jordan, and most choose to rent accommodation in one of the many Westernised compounds in and around Amman.

Jordanians are known for being friendly, warm and welcoming to foreigners. Arabic is the official language but most Jordanians can speak English, and expats should not have a problem communicating in professional settings and business dealings, particularly in Amman. Still, expats are likely to experience some level of culture shock, particularly if they are unused to life in the Middle East.

Expats relocating to Jordan need not worry about good medical facilities. The country has one of the best healthcare systems in the Middle East, with both private and public hospitals providing a high standard of care. 

Cost of living in Jordan

Jordan is undeniably expensive, and accommodation is usually an expat's biggest expense. Expat housing is usually in the form of compound townhouses and apartments, and these don't come cheap. Salaries in Jordan also tend to be lower than those offered in the UAE, for instance, but this depends on an expat's field of work.

Expat families and children

Expats are often surprised at how family friendly Jordan is. Compounds often have wonderful amenities such as swimming pools, sports facilities, clubhouses, playgrounds, as well as expats from similar backgrounds, which make family life easy.

Jordan has a high literacy rate and the government views education as a priority. The language of instruction at local schools is Arabic, and expats seeking to continue their children’s education from home will be pleased to know that there are a number of international schools in Jordan, catering for a variety of different nationalities. These are mostly located in Amman.

Climate in Jordan

Jordan has a Mediterranean-style climate with hot summers and wet winters. Expats expecting year-round sizzling temperatures may be surprised to learn that the country does experience colder temperatures too, not to mention rain and even a bit of snow in the winter months. However, those who enjoy sunshine can rest assured that such conditions are very much the exception, and Jordan is by and large a warm and sunny country. 

Jordan will be what an expat makes of it. It could be a wonderful adventure and an enriching experience for an expat family who are open to new ways of life and cultural differences. It's also a great base from which to travel internationally.

Fast facts

Population: Nearly 10.3 million

Capital city: Amman

Neighbouring countries: Jordan is bordered by Israel and Palestine to the west, Syria to the north, Iraq to the north-east and Saudi Arabia to the south and east.

Geography: Largely landlocked except for an 16 mile (26 km) coastline at the south-west edge of the country, most of Jordan is situated on a plateau. The East Bank of Jordan is largely arid desert, while the West Bank is mostly rough mountain terrain with a few sections of highly arable land used for farming.

Political system: Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Major religion: Islam

Main languages: Arabic is the official language, but English is also widely spoken

Money: The Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is divided into 10 dirham, 100 qirsh, or 1,000 fils. It is easy for an expat to open a bank account in Jordan and ATMs are ubiquitous, especially in the cities.

Tipping: Most of the better hotels and restaurants will add a 10 to 12 percent service charge to the bill, but smaller establishments usually expect a tip. It is customary to round up the price of a taxi trip. 

Time: UTC+2 (UTC+3 during daylight savings time)

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. A variety of plugs are used in Jordan, including European two-prong round-pin plugs and British plugs with three flat blades. 

Internet domain: .jo

International dialling code: +962

Emergency contacts: The general emergency number is 911. Ambulances in major urban centres usually arrive quickly.

Transport and driving: Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Traffic can be heavy and drivers can be erratic. If driving in Jordan, expats should keep an eye out for livestock such as camels crossing the road. Buses and taxis are the most common forms of public transport.

* Islamic holidays are subject to the sighting of the moon, and dates can change on the Gregorian calendar.

Expats relocating to Jordan will likely find that the culture differs quite significantly from their own. The effects of culture shock in Jordan can make it difficult to settle into a new life, but the all-pervading hospitality and friendliness of Jordanians do a lot to ease the burden of a potentially tricky transition.

Religion in Jordan

The dominant religion in Jordan is Sunni Islam, with more than 90 percent of the population practising this faith. There is some Christian presence in Jordan, but this is very much in the minority, with Christians making up only six percent of the general population. Despite this disparity, Christians are free to practise their religion and there are plenty of churches available for them to attend. Members of lesser-known religions have a slightly higher risk of being discriminated against, but this is rare. 

Religion plays a vital role in shaping the daily lives of Jordanians and, by extension, the lives of all who live there. For instance, scheduled prayers are held five times a day. Prayer times are publicly signalled by mosques and devout Muslims will put everything on hold to pray, bringing business to a standstill. The opening times of restaurants are also affected by religion – during holy occasions such as Ramadan, restaurants will accommodate traditional fasting practices by opening just before sundown.

Members of other faiths are not obligated to fast alongside Muslim friends or colleagues during Ramadan but should refrain from eating and drinking in front of them as a sign of respect. In addition, eating or drinking in public in daylight hours during Ramadan is technically illegal and could result in a fine.

Women in Jordan

Women in Jordan are afforded more rights and privileges than those in most Middle Eastern countries. One of these is the right to work and even earn equal pay and benefits to that of their male peers. Even so, life for women in Jordan is greatly influenced by the value that the Islamic religion places on patriarchal power.

On a daily basis, expat women will be affected most by how they are expected to dress. Although it isn’t necessary for a Western woman living in Jordan to cover her face or hair, she should be sure to keep her shoulders, legs and chest area covered.

It is an unfortunate fact that Western women are sometimes targeted by Jordanian men on the street and expats should be prepared for this. Usually, this behaviour is limited to bothersome catcalling and staring. If not discouraged, though, it can escalate into stalking and sexual harassment. This kind of unwanted attention may be avoided by travelling with a companion, particularly when out at night, and dressing conservatively.

Public displays of affection such as hugging, kissing and hand holding are frowned upon.

Language in Jordan

The dominant language in Jordan is Arabic, a notoriously difficult language to master. Most Jordanians are able and willing to speak English, but expats should try to pick up as many common Arabic phrases as possible, especially with regard to navigating social situations.

Food and drink in Jordan

In Jordan, expats are likely to find themselves often being invited to drink tea with locals. A shop owner or stranger is just as likely to offer a drink of tea as an old friend. Jordanians take great pride in their hospitality and will go out of their way to make sure their guests are comfortable. 

Social gatherings, when not centred on tea drinking, are all about sharing a meal or enjoying a sweet treat together. Expats should be aware that eating utensils are generally not used in Jordan – rather, bread is served with almost every meal and is used as a spoon to scoop up one’s food. A common faux pas to avoid is eating with one’s left hand, as it is considered by Jordanians to signify uncleanliness.

Finding work in Jordan is no easy feat. Unemployment in Jordan has been an issue for quite some time. The trend of high unemployment has been steadily increasing over the years and has made finding work a challenge for locals and expats alike.

Job market in Jordan

Despite the issue of unemployment in Jordan, its economy is one of the strongest in the Middle East thanks to its rich mineral resources such as phosphates and potash. Aside from mining, other strong or fast-growing sectors that expats might consider are tourism, pharmaceuticals and telecommunications/IT.

As with most countries whose primary language is not English, it’s also possible to find work teaching English in Jordan. Most commonly, though, expats in Jordan will be found working for international companies as engineers.

Finding a job in Jordan

To search for and obtain a job in Jordan, it isn’t always necessary for an expat to already be in the country. Searching online from home has distinct advantages, such as the possibility of finding an employer willing to pay for ticket and relocation costs. There are a number of job portals online that are widely considered to be good sources for jobs, but expats should be wary of suspicious-sounding job posts or offers that seem too good to be true. Apart from maintaining a healthy sense of scepticism, expats should only use reputable and well-known job portals.

Jordanian newspapers also regularly run ads in job sections, though this is only useful if one is already in the country. Even then, online job portals remain the most popular and convenient way of finding work.

Work culture in Jordan

The workweek in Jordan runs from Sunday to Thursday owing to the fact that Friday is the holy day of the official state religion, Islam. Working hours consist of eight hours of work a day, five days a week, adding up to a total of 40 hours a week. The usual work schedule may be disrupted by holy occasions such as Ramadan. Expats should also take note that a call to prayer is sounded by mosques five times daily and Muslims will stop whatever they are doing (including work activities) to partake.

While Jordanians are generally extremely friendly and hospitable to foreigners, there is some level of resentment from locals towards foreigners employed in Jordan. The soaring unemployment rate has made the job market extremely competitive – this makes it understandably frustrating for Jordanians to see a job go to someone else. The ongoing Syrian refugee crisis in Jordan has, unfortunately, only worsened this ill-feeling towards working expats.

Jordan has a Mediterranean-style climate with hot summers and wet winters. Expats expecting year-round sizzling temperatures may be surprised to learn that the country does experience colder temperatures too, not to mention rain and even a bit of snow in the winter months. However, those who enjoy sunshine can rest assured that such conditions are very much the exception, and Jordan is by and large a warm and sunny country. 

The spring season is from March to May and brings with it an array of dazzling wildflowers to the Jordanian countryside. Summer, from June to August, is characterised by hot daytime temperatures with an average of 90°F (32°C). During this season it is advisable for expats to wear lightweight but modest clothing, not forgetting that skimpy clothing will likely be considered disrespectful.

In April, a hot southerly wind known as the khamsin wind blows over the country. The khamsin can build up to gale force, and often causes dangerous sandstorms. The arrival of this wind can cause the temperature to rise by several degrees, sometimes up to 104°F (40°C), within just a few hours. During these times, expats should beware of low visibility and should stay indoors if possible.

Despite the hot days, summer evenings can quickly become chilly, so it’s always a good idea to carry an extra layer to throw on when out and about at night.

In November, rainy conditions start to make their way across the country heralding the arrival of winter, which lasts from December to February. The rainy season runs until around April and can bring vicious storms causing flash floods and mudslides. During this time, expats should wrap up warmly and wear waterproof jackets or overcoats. It is during winter that Jordan’s capital city, Amman, may experience a few days of snowfall.

While some expats in Jordan are lucky enough to have their employers arrange their accommodation, many have to go it alone, which can be quite daunting. But with a little patience and perseverance, expats are sure to find a home to suit both their budget and lifestyle.

Types of accommodation in Jordan

Compounds are by far the most popular choice among Western expats looking for a taste of home in the midst of the sometimes jarring unfamiliarity of Jordan. These compounds are essentially gated communities consisting of a number of houses, villas or apartments. They are often luxurious and may include amenities such as swimming pools, clubhouses and other recreation areas.

Some expats find that the atmosphere in compounds tends to be less conservative than is typical in Jordan, and they can behave and dress as they would back home. On the other hand, living in such a community does hinder cultural assimilation and means expats often miss out on a great deal of life happening beyond the walls of the compound.

Once expats have decided what kind of accommodation they're looking for, they will also need to consider whether they want fully furnished, semi-furnished or non-furnished accommodation. In fully furnished accommodation, everything but linen and towels is provided, while a non-furnished place won't have much beyond kitchen cabinets. Semi-furnished accommodation varies but will typically include white kitchen goods such as a stove, microwave and fridge.

Finding accommodation in Jordan

Jordanians are generally happy to chat to just about anyone about anything at any time, and this can be very useful for house-hunting expats. Scouting out potential neighbourhoods and having a chat with locals in the area can yield useful information about places to rent nearby.

Of course, searching online could also yield results. There are a number of websites that cater specifically to expats, although some may try to take advantage of foreigners by overcharging. While the internet is certainly a good place to start one's search for accommodation and it may be tempting to sort out a place to live with just a few clicks of a button and an email or two, it’s important to view the property in person and meet the landlord before paying or committing to anything.

Property sections in local newspapers can also be useful, but only expats with a good understanding of Arabic, or who have access to a translator, will be able to make much use of this resource.

It's worth considering hiring a real-estate agent as they are knowledgeable about the local housing market and the paperwork involved in renting, and can do most of the required legwork. While convenient, this can be an expensive route to take.

Renting accommodation in Jordan

The rental process in Jordan is fairly standard, at least when it comes to compound living. Property owners within a compound are accustomed to dealing with foreigners and won't be fazed by any additional paperwork required. For those opting for accommodation outside a compound, it might be useful to enlist help from a Jordanian contact or the expertise of an estate agent. 

Leases

Leases in Jordan are typically for one year with an option to renew, and landlords usually expect the entire year’s rent upfront. So, before searching for a house, expats should ensure that they have the money ready, be that in the form a loan, savings or an advance from their employer. Some landlords may be open to negotiation, such as paying six months' rent upfront and the rest at a later stage, but striking this kind of deal will normally push the rental price up.

Deposits

Once a lease is signed, it is unbreakable. Because of the lump-sum payment, landlords do not usually ask for a deposit (although legally they are entitled to). But if the tenant breaks the terms of the lease by moving out early, they will not be refunded any remains of the rent. Shorter leases of six months are possible but again, this will result in an increased rental price, usually by up to 20 percent.

Utilities

In most cases, the cost of basic utilities such as gas, electricity and water are included in the rental price. There are some instances, especially with short-term rentals where additional expenses such as telephone rental and internet are also accounted for within the rent, but for longer-term contracts tenants are most likely to be required to organise and pay for these optional services themselves.

Jordan is one of the most expensive Middle Eastern countries to live in, and it certainly bears a higher cost of living than many would expect of a developing country. In Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for 2023, Jordan’s capital city, Amman, ranked alongside popular expats destinations such as Auckland and Glasgow, placing 110th out of 227 countries surveyed.

The problem is not so much that goods and services are pricey; rather, local salaries aren’t high enough for locals to comfortably afford them. Expats tend to earn higher salaries than locals though, so most will be able to afford a comfortable lifestyle, but this is not always the case and expats should consider carefully before accepting a salary offer.

Cost of accommodation in Jordan

Rental costs are likely to be the biggest expense in Jordan, though the extent of this depends on the type of accommodation. Sharing a house or apartment is a great way to cut costs while building connections in your new country. Furniture and electronics can be expensive, so it is usually worthwhile to opt for fully furnished accommodation, even though the rental costs are higher than those of non-furnished accommodation.

The cost of utilities is generally separate from the rental price and must be paid by tenants. This includes water, electricity and gas for heating and cooking. In winter, the utility bill can easily double, so expats should adjust their budget accordingly.

Cost of food and clothing in Jordan

If expats stick to buying seasonal local fruit and vegetables, the cost of groceries is likely to remain at an affordable level. That said, imported goods are typically expensive, and the same applies to clothing. Expats will find reasonably priced clothing at local shops, but the price tag on international brands can be steep.

Cost of eating out and entertainment in Jordan

Expats accustomed to regularly going out for a quick drink after work will find this an expensive habit to maintain in Jordan. As the country is governed according to the principles of Islam, most locals don’t drink alcohol at all. There are Western-owned bars and clubs available for the minority in Jordan who do drink, but the relative scarcity of alcohol means it is expensive, and the heavy tax imposed on alcohol pushes the price up even further.

The cost of eating out in Jordan varies greatly. Local restaurants are usually affordable, but those attached to hotels or in touristy spots such as resort areas are known for their often ludicrously high prices.

Cost of transport in Jordan

Taxis are a cheap way to get around Jordan, provided expats don’t allow drivers to take advantage by overcharging them. Buying a car in Jordan can be expensive, but expats may be able to save some money by importing a car from a neighbouring country. Petrol is quite affordable in Jordan. 

Cost of education and schooling in Jordan

Basic schooling is compulsory in Jordan and is provided by public schools at no cost. Although private schools and international schools carry a far higher cost, the facilities on offer in these institutions are excellent. Expat parents in the process of negotiating relocation benefits should consider asking for an education allowance if this is the route they want to go.

Cost of living in Jordan chart

Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in Amman for March 2023.

Expats looking to do business in Jordan will likely find opportunities in the country’s growing economy, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the process of doing business is always a smooth one.

Despite any bureaucratic shortcomings, the warm nature of the Jordanian people certainly helps negate these and there has been a notable improvement to business processes in recent years.

Fast facts

Business hours

The workweek in Jordan runs from Sunday to Thursday. Business hours are usually 8:30 to 13:00 and 15:30 to 18:30, but as Jordanians aren’t sticklers for time this can vary.

Language

While Arabic is the official language of the country, most international business dealings are done in English. However, expats would do well to learn a few key Arabic phrases, and for the convenience of Jordanian associates, business cards should be printed in both Arabic and English.

Dress

Jordanian businesspeople are well dressed and expats should follow their example. Men should dress the same as they would for business dealings in the West; smart business suits are fine, and casual wear should not be worn in an office environment. Women should ensure all sleeves are elbow length or longer and should wear high necklines and skirts that fall below the knee.

Gifts

Gifts are not expected at initial meetings, but a small gift may be given if invited to a Jordanian’s home. Do not give alcohol. Sweets or flowers are appropriate as long as they’re not too lavish.

Gender equality

Women are underrepresented in the workplace in Jordan, but expat women report that this doesn't seem to impact much on doing business as a woman in the country.

Greetings

Handshakes are the standard greeting in Jordan and eye contact is important. Men should, however, wait for women to initiate a handshake. The most senior person, usually the eldest, should be greeted first.

Business culture in Jordan

As in any new place, it may take expats some time to get used to the Jordanian way of doing business. As the state religion, Islamic ideals affect the workplace as do the strong cultural values held by Jordanians.

Time

In Jordan, time is more loosely defined than what expats may be used to. Jordanians prefer to deal with things organically and value spending time with people and building relationships over chasing deadlines. As a result, meetings or social gatherings may often begin later than the appointed time. It’s best not to follow suit in arriving late, though, as this may be thought of as rude or unusual behaviour from a Westerner. Instead, aim to be on time but not to be early for meetings. When setting up a meeting, expats should be aware and respectful of the five daily prayer times.

Socialising

Jordanians are famous for their hospitable spirit and friendly nature, and this extends to business dealings. The first five to 10 minutes of the first business meeting will often be devoted to getting to know one another, and values such as respect, friendship and trust are paramount in business dealings and personal matters alike. Often locals will take a great interest in the personal lives of foreigners and may pepper them with questions that may seem nosy or prying. Expats shouldn’t take offence at this; it is simply the Jordanian way of showing interest in getting to know new arrivals. Any social invitations should be accepted and reciprocated at a later date. If at all possible, do not decline such invitations as this could damage the business relationship.

Emotions

Jordanians don’t often show strong emotions, except sometimes anger, and even this is rare. Affection is not openly expressed and public displays of it, even between a married couple, are not appropriate. If faced with a situation where they must confront someone about something, Jordanians will always do it privately and expats should afford locals this same courtesy. Having a public confrontation would cause the offending party to ‘lose face’ and this is unacceptable.

Dos and don’ts of business in Jordan

• Do be patient if a Jordanian associate arrives at a meeting late

• Don’t jump right into business at the start of the meeting

• Don’t expect to drink alcohol as part of socialising – most Jordanians are Muslim and don’t drink

• Do avoid talking about Israel or politics, even if locals seem keen to chat about these topics

• Don’t ask Jordanian men about female family members – some will find this suspicious

Expats wishing to go to Jordan, whether for a visit or to stay long term, will all have to navigate the country's visa system. Nationals of some countries have a much smoother road than others when it comes to tourist visas, but all nationalities wanting to work and reside in the country will have to navigate some red tape to secure the necessary visas for Jordan.

Tourist visas for Jordan

The procedure for obtaining a tourist visa for Jordan depends on the nationality of the individual wishing to enter. Nationals of several countries can obtain a visa at the border and do not need to apply beforehand. Nationals of other countries will need a visa in hand before travelling to Jordan – they may require Security Approval for entry as well, which also needs to be obtained in advance.

More than 230 nationalities are required to have an approved tourist visa to travel to Jordan, whether this is an electronic visa, a visa on arrival, or an embassy visa.

Around 140 nationalities are able to obtain an eVisa for Jordan for tourism through an electronic application called Jordan Pass. Those who apply for this online tourist package have their visa fees for Jordan waived if they are staying for at least three nights. The 80-odd nationalities not eligible for the eVisa must obtain a tourist visa from their nearest Jordanian consulate before travelling.

Note that no visas are issued at the Wadi Araba and King Hussein Bridge borders; if entering at these borders, visas must be arranged beforehand.

Some travellers are exempt from visa requirements and may enter Jordan using just their passports. Nationals of these countries may stay for up to three months per six month period for tourism or business purposes. These are the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) as well as Lebanon and Turkey. Nationals of Egypt and Palestine are also allowed to enter the country without a visa, but may stay for only one month.

It is illegal to work in Jordan while on a tourist visa. A passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry is required to enter for all but Lebanese nationals, who may enter using an ID document.

Work visas for Jordan

Jordan issues work visas as well as work permits – though this sounds confusing at first, there is a very simple difference between the two. A work visa is used to give a foreign national permission to enter the country for work purposes, and a work permit is required to take up work once such a person is already in the country. In other words, an expat wishing to work in Jordan will need a work permit in addition to any visa used to enter Jordan. This includes expats who enter on a work visa.

Residence permits in Jordan

Residence permits in Jordan are distinguished from one another based on the circumstances of the person applying – for example, whether the applicant is married to a Jordanian national, and whether they are employed in the country.

A Jordanian residence permit is valid for one year and will need to be renewed annually.

Expats can become naturalised Jordanian citizens after living in Jordan permanently for a number of years, depending on their nationality. Wives of Jordanian men have a fast track on this. A foreigner who has lived legally in Jordan for 10 years and is not yet eligible for citizenship may apply for a five-year residence permit.

* Visa requirements can change at short notice and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

More and more expats are choosing to live and work in the little Middle Eastern country of Jordan. There are a few hoops to jump through first though, and expats intending to take up employment in Jordan will need to obtain a work permit in addition to the relevant visa.

Applying for a work permit in Jordan

Expats must have secured a job before applying for a work permit as the application requires the participation of the employer.

The first step is that the employer must obtain approval from the Ministry of Labour by proving one of two things: either that workers with the required experience and qualifications for the role cannot be found in Jordan; or that the number of such workers available does not fulfil the employer’s needs. This is often a difficult step; the high percentage of unemployment in Jordan means there is stiff competition for jobs and they are often snapped up right away.

Employers are required to pay a fee for each foreigner employed. This fee is lower for Arabs. The laws relating to work permits also state that preference must be given to Arab experts, technicians and workers.

Once a work permit has been granted, it is valid for one year, at which point it can be renewed.

Closed professions in Jordan

Expats should also be aware that there is a list of closed professions in the country. By law, only Jordanians may work in these occupations, which include jobs in medicine, engineering, administration, sales and others. We'd advise that prospective expats consult this list before commencing a job hunt.

* Visa requirements can change at short notice and expats should contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

With the country’s rapidly expanding telecommunications industry, keeping in touch in Jordan is easier than ever. From typing out a quick text message and posting photos on social media to sending a handwritten letter or parcel by post, expats have a variety of convenient and affordable ways to contact their loved ones back home.

Internet in Jordan

Jordan has a high internet-penetration rate compared to many other Middle Eastern countries. Although getting access to the internet is easy, expats from highly developed countries may find the speed a little slow. It is, at least, slightly above the average speed of other countries in the Middle East and Africa.

WiFi hotspots are easy to find in big cities, as are internet cafes.

Internet censorship in Jordan

Jordan is considered partially free when it comes to internet censorship and most websites can be visited easily. However, a law passed in 2012 made it a legal requirement for all news websites to apply for and obtain a government licence – without this licence, access to the website is blocked and charges are pressed against the offending news outlet. This has been seen as a move towards covert censorship.

Mobile phones in Jordan

As is the trend worldwide, mobile phone use has long overtaken landline phone use in Jordan. Expats have the choice of signing up for either a prepaid or postpaid plan. Some postpaid plans include a set number of free international minutes, which can be particularly useful for those wanting to keep in touch with friends and family back home.

If bringing a mobile phone that was purchased in another country, expats should be aware that it may be locked to a particular network. 

Postal services in Jordan

The Jordan Post is a state-owned countrywide postal service. They are generally considered to be reliable but it is recommended that important documents or packages be sent through one of the international courier companies operating in Jordan.

The healthcare system in Jordan is widely praised and expats accustomed to receiving a high standard of medical care back home are sure to be equally impressed with the expertise of Jordanian doctors. 

The cost of treatment is considerably lower than what many expats may be used to – it is estimated that having a procedure done in Jordan costs on average about 10 to 30 percent less than the same procedure would cost in the US. This has made the country a popular destination for medical tourism; currently, it is one of the most highly praised medical tourism destinations in the Middle East and North Africa.

It should be noted that although excellent facilities are available in Jordan, they are mainly located in its capital city, Amman. 

Doctors are usually able to speak English well and many Jordanian doctors have studied in the West.

Public healthcare in Jordan 

Public hospitals in Jordan usually have up-to-date technology at their disposal and are serviced by knowledgeable doctors. However, like many other public healthcare systems around the world, the Jordanian public sector faces its share of problems. In the past, the chief complaint among those using the service has been long waiting times, but lately, this issue has begun to escalate.

Private healthcare in Jordan

While the public sector usually offers medical treatment equal to the quality of treatment offered in the private sector, many expats prefer to utilise private healthcare facilities. Expats often find that some public hospitals can be a bit sparse in terms of comfort and privacy, so those who can afford it usually feel that private facilities are more of a pleasant experience. In addition, waiting periods tend to be much shorter at private hospitals.

Pharmacies in Jordan

There are many pharmacies throughout Jordan, some of which are open after hours. Pharmacists should be able to dispense basic medical advice, but not all will speak English. Many medications are available over the counter but expats may be surprised to find that some medicines are restricted – for instance, anything containing codeine can only be purchased using a prescription.

Health insurance in Jordan

Public healthcare in Jordan is funded by the government and mandatory contributions from the country's workforce. A monthly deduction is taken from the salaries of all employees in Jordan. These employees are then granted access to social security, which entitles them to free or subsidised healthcare.

Although treatment in the private sector is still a fraction of the cost of the same treatment in other countries, most expats nevertheless take out health insurance to cover the costs incurred. Expats under an international insurance policy should ensure that their cover is comprehensive, and if living outside of Amman, it is recommended that expats choose a policy that includes emergency transport to Amman.

In the case of an emergency, treatment in Jordan is free of charge as long as the patient doesn't require hospitalisation. This applies to Jordanians as well as foreign nationals. Private health insurance is nevertheless recommended in case hospitalisation is required.

Health hazards in Jordan

Temperatures in Jordan can soar in summer, so expats should drink plenty of water and apply sunblock to avoid dehydration, heat exhaustion and sunburn.

The region has been considered malaria free for over a decade and has a relatively low incidence of tuberculosis and HIV. Nevertheless, appropriate precautions should be taken at all times.

Emergency services in Jordan

The response time of ambulances in Jordan is close to the global average of around seven minutes. Expats can dial the general emergency number (911) or ambulance and fire emergency number (199) for medical assistance

Although Jordan's education system is considered one of the best in the Arab world, the language barrier usually deters expat parents from enrolling their children in local public schools. 

That said, very young children are able to adopt a new language much faster than teens or adults. Learning Arabic and growing up alongside local children can help them to assimilate culturally, making public schools a useful option for those planning to stay in Jordan for the long haul.

For globally-mobile families or those with older children or teens, private international schools are generally the first choice.

Public school in Jordan

Those who are able to enrol their children in Jordanian public school will find that the country's model of education is advanced. Public schools are free to attend and school books are usually also supplied at no cost.

Schooling is divided into primary school and secondary school. Mandatory school attendance is from ages 5 to 15. Islamic Studies is a compulsory subject for Muslim students in secondary school.

Once students turn 15, they have the option of leaving school or continuing for another two years. If they choose to continue, there are two possible streams to follow: the academic stream, which prepares students for university; or the vocational stream, which prepares students for community colleges or the job market.

International schools in Jordan

Despite the sometimes-astronomical fees of international schools, most expat parents choose to take this route. This makes it possible for children to be educated in English or the language of their home country, often in a curriculum that is familiar to them. A variety of curricula are on offer, from American, French and British, to the globally recognised International Baccalaureate. This results in as little disruption of the child's education as possible, and the continuity can be reassuring in a situation where so many other things are different and new.

Places at these schools are limited so it is advised that parents start the application process early. Schools might require students to write entry tests and are likely to request reports from previous schools or recommendations. They may also require the child to come into the school for an interview.

Special-needs education in Jordan

Although there has been some progress in the realm of special-needs education in Jordan over the past couple of decades, the infrastructure is still somewhat inadequate for dealing with a broad spectrum of disabilities.

Special-education services are extended to a small minority of the population that needs some extra support. Accordingly, the vast majority of students with behavioural and physical disabilities are educated at home with very minimal professional support afforded to them or their families.  

While Jordanian society may be more progressive than some Middle Eastern countries, there is still a lot of stigma attached to disability which prevents many families from seeking the assistance they require. 

Tutors in Jordan

Expats in Jordan do not have many choices when it comes to transportation. Most roads are in good condition, but unpredictable Jordanian drivers make getting behind the wheel less than appealing. Meanwhile, the country's mountainous terrain largely rules out cycling and walking as forms of transport.

Taxis are popular with locals and expats alike and are useful for everyday transport, while buses are ideal for getting from city to city.

Public transport in Jordan

While Jordan is a highly developed country in areas such as education and health, its public transportation infrastructure is lacking. That said, with some planning and patience it is nevertheless possible to get from point A to point B using public transport.

Trains

There is only one passenger train in operation in Jordan: a steam train running along the Hedjaz Jordan Railway, which goes daily from Amman to Damascus in Syria and back. With the railway's long and fascinating history, a trip along this route is more for the experience of the ride rather than any practical use. 

Mini buses

Mini buses are shared taxis which carry seven to nine passengers. They are known locally as servees and can be frustrating to use as they do not follow regular timetables. Rather, drivers will wait until they have a full complement of passengers. While this is not too much of an inconvenience on popular and well-used routes where mini buses will fill up quickly, expats planning on taking more obscure routes will usually be in for a long wait. Once a mini bus is full, it will depart and will generally only stop along the way if a passenger asks them to.

Buses 

Expats in need of a bus service that adheres to a timetable should make use of JETT buses rather than relying on mini buses. Apart from the benefit of predictable and reliable timing, JETT buses also offer passengers a comfortable journey with air conditioning and toilets onboard. 

Taxis in Jordan

A popular and cost-effective way of getting around, taxis are the main form of transport for many in Jordan, especially in Amman. Taxis are typically yellow in colour.

Expats should be aware that taxi fares in Jordan are anything but straightforward. Firstly, prices are usually in fils, not dinars – and taxi drivers are unlikely to correct anyone who mistakenly pays in dinars.

If the taxi has a meter, make sure the driver turns it on as this will usually be cheaper than paying a set price for the ride. Although metered taxis are abundant in Amman, taxis in the rest of Jordan seldom have meters, in which case it is necessary to negotiate a flat fare before getting into the taxi.

When negotiating a fare for a group, taxi drivers are notorious for quoting a seemingly low price for the ride and later claiming that the quoted price was per person. Be sure to clarify this before accepting. 

Driving in Jordan

Driving in Jordan is not for the faint of heart. Although most roads are in good condition and are signposted in both Arabic and English, Jordanian drivers have a reputation for driving erratically and unpredictably.

The roads are full of hazards, from unmarked speed bumps to wandering livestock – in fact, livestock collisions are one of the most common causes of car accidents in Jordan.

At night, the roads are poorly lit and many local drivers are of the opinion that driving without headlights makes it easier to see. This makes it inadvisable to drive after dark unless absolutely necessary.

Cycling in Jordan

Cycling in Jordan can be hazardous – not only do motorists in Jordan lack knowledge of cycle safety, but there is little to no cycling infrastructure in even the most developed parts of the country. Jordan's hot and stifling weather along with the hilly landscape also make cycling difficult.