Jordan (JO)
Jordan is a stable, welcoming Hashemite Kingdom at the crossroads of the Middle East — home to Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the legendary Wadi Rum desert, and the mineral-rich Dead Sea.
Capital: Amman
Region: Middle East
Language: Arabic
Currency: JOD (JD)
Cost of living: Very affordable (index 39)
Emergency: 911
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Time: 1–3 days for employer group insurance. Individual: 1–2 weeks. · Cost: JD 600–1,500/year for comprehensive individual cover. JD 400–900/year for basic cover.
Deadline: Before first medical appointment
Risk if missed: Medical costs at private hospitals are high: JD 150–500 per GP consultation, JD 2,000–15,000 for surgery. Without insurance you pay the full bill upfront.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Employer letter (for group insurance)
- ✓ Medical history disclosure (for individual plans)
Tip: Leading insurers in Jordan: Jordan Insurance Company, Arab Life & Accidents, AXA Jordan, Allianz SE Jordan. Confirm your employer's group policy covers specialist referrals and hospitalisation. For comprehensive expat coverage also consider Cigna Global or AXA International — these cover Jordan and your home country visits.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 days at DRBA · Cost: JD 30–60 annual renewal fee
Deadline: Before Iqama expiry date
Risk if missed: JD 1.50/day fine for every day of overstay. Complications at airport on departure.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Current Iqama card
- ✓ Renewed work permit (employer's responsibility)
- ✓ Valid passport (6+ months remaining)
- ✓ Passport photos
- ✓ DRBA processing fee
Tip: Set a calendar reminder 2 months before your Iqama expiry date. Prompt your employer's HR team to start the work permit renewal simultaneously — the MOL renewal takes longer than DRBA. The premium guide includes a complete Iqama renewal checklist and DRBA appointment booking guide.
Local institution: Department of Residency and Borders Affairs (DRBA)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–8 weeks for application and assessment. Apply 3–6 months ahead for top schools. · Cost: International schools: JD 6,000–22,000/year tuition. Registration fees: JD 200–500.
Risk if missed: Popular schools fill up. Late applicants may have no good alternatives for the academic year.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Previous school reports (last 2 years)
- ✓ Birth certificates
- ✓ Passport copies (child and parents')
- ✓ Iqama copies (once available)
- ✓ Language assessment (some schools)
- ✓ Vaccination records
Tip: Arab International Academy (AIA), Bishop's School, King's Academy (boarding IB, Madaba), British International Academy (BIA), and the American Community School (ACS) are top picks. The premium guide includes school comparison, curriculum choice (IB vs. IGCSE vs. American diploma), and current tuition fees for 2026.
Local institution: International Schools of Amman
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks for full registration · Cost: JD 150–500 depending on business type. Accountant fee: JD 200–400.
Risk if missed: Unregistered business activity is illegal. ISTD can audit and fine backdated. Potential work permit complications.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid Iqama (self-employed work permit type)
- ✓ Business registration application
- ✓ ISTD tax registration
- ✓ Proof of professional qualifications (if applicable)
Tip: Freelancers typically register as a Sole Proprietorship (Munshabat Fardiyyah). ASEZ (Aqaba Special Economic Zone) offers a 5% flat tax for eligible businesses registered there. The premium guide covers: entity types, step-by-step registration, invoicing requirements (must include TIN, date, service description), and quarterly tax filing obligations.
Local institution: Ministry of Industry and Trade / Income and Sales Tax Department (ISTD)
Time: 1–3 days for Jordanian registration. Embassy registration: 1–2 weeks. · Cost: Jordanian registration: JD 5–20. Embassy: varies by country (typically free to USD 100).
Deadline: Within 30 days of birth (Jordanian Civil Status)
Risk if missed: Late registration at Jordanian Civil Status may incur fines. Delay in obtaining the child's home country travel documents.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Hospital birth certificate (Shahadat al-Wilada)
- ✓ Parents' passports and Iqama
- ✓ Marriage certificate (apostilled and translated to Arabic)
- ✓ Application to Civil Status Department
Tip: Register with your home country's embassy as soon as possible after the Jordanian registration — your child will need their home country passport to travel. UK: register with British Embassy Amman within 12 months. USA: CRBA (Consular Report of Birth Abroad) at US Embassy Amman. Australia: register within 3 months.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks after sponsor's Iqama is issued · Cost: JD 20–40 per dependant
Documents needed:
- ✓ Sponsor's valid Iqama (original)
- ✓ Marriage certificate (original + certified Arabic translation + MFA attestation)
- ✓ Children's birth certificates (certified Arabic translation + MFA attestation)
- ✓ Passport copies for all family members
- ✓ Sponsor's employer letter confirming adequate salary (typically JD 500+/month)
Tip: Marriage certificates and birth certificates issued abroad must be authenticated at the Jordanian Embassy in the issuing country, then re-authenticated at Jordan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Amman — allow 1–2 weeks. The premium guide covers document legalisation step-by-step and the attestation process.
Local institution: Department of Residency and Borders Affairs (DRBA)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–4 weeks after work permit is issued · Cost: JD 30–60 (DRBA processing fee)
Deadline: Within 1 month of work permit issuance
Risk if missed: Without Iqama, you are on visitor status. Overstaying a visitor entry triggers fines of JD 1.50/day. Significant delays in daily life tasks.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport (valid minimum 6 months beyond Iqama expiry)
- ✓ Work permit (from Ministry of Labour)
- ✓ Medical fitness certificate (blood tests at approved clinic)
- ✓ Employer's letter confirming employment
- ✓ Passport photos (biometric, white background)
- ✓ Application form from DRBA
- ✓ Processing fee
Tip: The medical fitness test is mandatory: blood group, CBC, HIV, hepatitis. Done at MoH-approved private clinics (JD 20–40). Results usually available same day. The premium guide includes: DRBA location, appointment process, Iqama card collection, renewal timeline, and how to add dependants.
Local institution: Department of Residency and Borders Affairs (DRBA / دائرة الإقامة والحدود)
Time: 1–2 hours in branch. Some banks process within the day. · Cost: Free account opening. Some accounts: JD 5–10/month if minimum balance not maintained.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport (original + copy)
- ✓ Valid Iqama (residence permit) — most banks require this
- ✓ Employment letter or contract (from your Jordanian employer)
- ✓ Jordanian phone number
- ✓ Initial deposit (typically JD 50–200)
Tip: Arab Bank is the most internationally recognised and widely used by expat employers for payroll. Housing Bank is also popular. Ahli Bank and Cairo Amman Bank offer English-speaking service. Note: some banks require your Iqama before opening — get your Iqama first if possible, or ask your employer for an interim letter.
Time: Automatic — employer registers within your first month · Cost: 7.5% of gross basic salary (deducted from your payslip)
Risk if missed: If your employer has not registered you, you lose access to SSC benefits and future pension rights. Check your first payslip for SSC deductions.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Your employer handles registration — no action required from you
Tip: Check your first payslip — it should show "SSC Employee" deduction of 7.5%. If not, ask your HR department to confirm registration with the SSC. Keep all SSC contribution records — you will need them if you claim a refund on departure.
Time: 1–4 weeks searching; 1–3 days for contract and deposit · Cost: Security deposit: 1–3 months rent. Standard 1BR in Sweifieh: JD 350–650/month.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Employment letter (landlords often ask)
- ✓ Security deposit (1–3 months rent)
Tip: Use OpenSooq (opensooq.com) and Bayut (bayut.jo) to search listings. Many expats use Facebook groups: "Expats in Amman — Apartments for Rent". Get your rental contract translated — it is in Arabic. Take photos of the apartment at move-in, note all existing damage in writing, and keep a copy of the signed inventory.
Time: 15 minutes check before travel; processing on arrival · Cost: JD 40 (single-entry visa on arrival) or free with Jordan Pass for qualifying tourists
Deadline: Before booking non-refundable travel
Risk if missed: Denied entry; wasted travel costs; complications for future Jordan entry.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport (valid minimum 6 months beyond intended stay)
- ✓ Onward or return ticket
- ✓ Proof of accommodation
- ✓ Sufficient funds (typically USD 1,000+/month)
Tip: Check the current Jordan visa policy at moi.gov.jo. The Jordan Pass (visitjordan.com) includes visa costs and covers entry to 40+ sites including Petra — worth considering for short visits. Save the DRBA (Department of Residency and Borders Affairs) phone number: +962 6 5899888.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 2–6 weeks from employer application submission · Cost: JD 100–300 (employer pays — confirm this with your employer)
Deadline: Before starting work
Risk if missed: Working without a work permit is illegal. Fine of JD 500–3,000 for the employer. Employee can be deported.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport (original + copies)
- ✓ Employer's application to Ministry of Labour
- ✓ Employment contract
- ✓ University degree or professional qualifications (if applicable)
- ✓ Medical fitness certificate (some sectors)
- ✓ Passport-sized photos
Tip: Your employer MUST apply for the work permit — it is not your responsibility. Confirm the status of your application before your first day at work. If your employer asks you to pay for the permit or apply yourself, this is a red flag. The premium guide covers work permit categories, restricted occupations (reserved for Jordanians), and how to verify your permit online at mol.gov.jo.
Local institution: Ministry of Labour (وزارة العمل)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30–60 minutes at any insurance office or online for some providers · Cost: Third-party: JD 80–200/year. Comprehensive: JD 200–600/year.
Deadline: Before driving any vehicle on Jordanian roads
Risk if missed: JD 100–200 fine + vehicle impound. Personal liability for all damages in an accident without insurance.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Vehicle registration (Tasjeel)
- ✓ Iqama
- ✓ Driving licence
Tip: Comprehensive insurance (Taskin) covers theft, damage, and third-party liability — strongly recommended for Amman's dense traffic. Confirm your policy includes roadside assistance. Some policies cover cross-border travel to the West Bank/Israel via King Hussein Bridge — confirm explicitly if you plan to travel this route.
Local institution: Jordan Insurance Federation (JIF)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 4–8 weeks preparation before travel; 2–4 hours airport clearance · Cost: Import permit: JD 20–50. Health certificate endorsement: JD 50–150. Airport clearance: JD 50–100. Total: JD 150–400.
Deadline: Import permit must be obtained 2–4 weeks before travel
Risk if missed: Pet refused entry or quarantined at owner's expense (JD 50–100/day). Highly stressful for the animal.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Import permit (from Ministry of Agriculture)
- ✓ International Health Certificate (endorsed by home country government vet)
- ✓ Jordanian Embassy authentication of health certificate
- ✓ Rabies vaccination certificate
- ✓ Microchip certificate (ISO 11784/11785)
Tip: Prepare all documents 8 weeks before travel — apostille and authentication chains take time. Some breeds are restricted (Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro) — confirm with moa.gov.jo before planning. The premium guide includes a complete document checklist, airline pet policy comparison, and how to expedite Ministry of Agriculture approval.
Local institution: Ministry of Agriculture — Veterinary Directorate (moa.gov.jo)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours at nearest SSC office · Cost: Free to apply
Deadline: Must register within 4 weeks of losing employment
Risk if missed: Loss of up to 6 months of income support that you have legally paid into.
Documents needed:
- ✓ SSC registration number
- ✓ Termination letter from employer (Shikaka or Faskh al-Aqd)
- ✓ Passport and Iqama
- ✓ Bank account details for payment
Tip: Do not delay — the 4-week registration deadline is strict. Bring your employer's termination letter and your SSC contribution statement. The premium guide covers: qualifying criteria, benefit calculation, duration, and what to do if your employer disputes the termination type.
Local institution: Social Security Corporation (SSC)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours for registration. Annual return: 2–4 hours. · Cost: Free. Accountant for complex return: JD 200–600.
Risk if missed: ISTD fines for late filing: 5–25% of tax due. Interest on unpaid tax accumulates monthly.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Employer's annual tax certificate (if employed)
- ✓ Bank statements
- ✓ ISTD registration number
Tip: Tax year in Jordan: 1 January–31 December. Return filing deadline: 30 April. Jordan has double tax treaties with 35+ countries — check if your country has a treaty to avoid double taxation. Allowable deductions include: medical expenses (up to JD 1,000), education expenses (up to JD 1,000), mortgage interest. The premium guide covers: 2026 tax brackets, ISTD portal registration, allowable deductions, double tax treaty networks, and GST compliance.
Local institution: Income and Sales Tax Department (دائرة ضريبة الدخل والمبيعات)
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 days for documentation; licence issued same day or next day · Cost: JD 30–60 (licence fee + translation + eye test)
Risk if missed: Driving on a foreign licence as a Jordan resident is technically non-compliant after your Iqama is issued. Police checkpoints are common — carry your Iqama and licence at all times.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid Iqama (original)
- ✓ Original foreign driving licence
- ✓ Official Arabic translation of licence (from a certified translator)
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Medical eye test certificate (issued by approved optician)
- ✓ Blood group certificate
- ✓ Passport photos
Tip: The DVLD accepts most EU, UK, USA, Canadian, and Australian licences for direct conversion without a driving test. The premium guide includes: DVLD office locations, exact document checklist, countries requiring a driving test, and vehicle inspection requirements.
Local institution: Jordan Drivers & Vehicles Licensing Directorate (DVLD / دائرة ترخيص السائقين والمركبات)
Time: 5–10 working days for full attestation chain (longer if documents come from abroad) · Cost: Translation: JD 15–50/page. MFA attestation: JD 10–30/document. Total: JD 50–150 per document.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Original document
- ✓ Apostille (from issuing country)
- ✓ Certified Arabic translation
- ✓ MFA attestation fee (JD 10–30/document)
Tip: Start document authentication before you arrive in Jordan if possible — the apostille from your home country can be obtained in advance. In Jordan: certified translation agencies cluster near the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Civil Court in Amman. Allow extra time for documents from countries without efficient apostille systems.
Time: 15 minutes to set up Wise account · Cost: Wise: ~0.5–1.5% transfer fee. Bank SWIFT: JD 20–50 flat.
Tip: Wise supports JOD as a send currency. Jordan is still predominantly a cash society for everyday transactions — keep JD 50–100 cash on hand at all times. ATMs are widely available (Arab Bank, Cairo Amman Bank, and Jordan Ahli Bank have the widest networks). Notify your home bank before arriving to avoid card blocks.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours at bank branch · Cost: Free account opening; interest earned is subject to 5% withholding tax on deposit interest in Jordan
Documents needed:
- ✓ Valid Iqama
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Initial deposit (typically JD 500–1,000 for savings)
- ✓ Tax file number (ISTD) for larger deposits
Tip: Arab Bank, Housing Bank, and Jordan Kuwait Bank offer competitive savings products for expats. USD-denominated time deposits are popular given the JOD-USD peg. For larger investment portfolios, consult a CFA-qualified financial adviser in Amman. The premium guide covers: account types, interest tax treatment, and investment regulations for non-nationals.
Time: 15–30 minutes at any Zain, Umniah, or Orange shop or airport kiosk · Cost: JD 3–10 for starter SIM. Monthly plan: JD 5–20 (data + calls)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport (mandatory for SIM registration)
Tip: Buy at the airport on arrival — Jordan Duty Free shops sell all three operators. Zain supports eSIM for compatible devices (activate at a Zain branch or online). A Jordanian number is required before you can complete bank account registration. WhatsApp is the primary communication channel — install and verify it immediately.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–3 days for installation · Cost: JD 15–35/month. Installation fee: JD 50–100 (sometimes waived in promotions)
Documents needed:
- ✓ Iqama or passport
- ✓ Rental contract or proof of address
Tip: Zain Home fibre offers the best value and reliability in Amman. Umniah is often cheaper for DSL (where fibre is not yet available). In rural areas outside Amman, 4G mobile hotspot may be your best option. The premium guide compares all providers, installation processes, and how to resolve service issues efficiently.
Time: 30 minutes to read the rules and plan · Cost: None
Tip: Keep food and water discreet in public during Ramadan daylight hours. Carry a snack in your bag for when you are away from home. Careem food delivery still operates during Ramadan (to your door). After Iftar, Amman comes alive — excellent atmosphere in restaurants and cafes. Accept any Iftar dinner invitations from Jordanian friends or colleagues.
Time: 30 minutes to join groups and register for events · Cost: Free (most groups). InterNations: free basic, USD 14.99/month premium.
Tip: Wild Jordan (RSCN) organises hiking and nature trips open to everyone. Hash House Harriers Amman is the fastest way to meet a diverse expat crowd. American Community School (ACS) community events are welcoming even for non-ACS families. The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) organises environmental volunteer events.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Half day to full day · Cost: JD 200–500 for professional orientation service. Free if provided by employer.
Tip: Professional relocation companies in Amman: SIRVA Jordan, Jordan Concierge Services, Movex Jordan. A good orientation saves weeks of trial and error. Cultural briefings are especially important for expats from non-Muslim backgrounds — understanding Islamic customs, hospitality etiquette, and Ramadan rules significantly improves integration. The premium guide includes: a curated Jordan cultural briefing, neighbourhood guide, and a 30-day new arrival checklist.
Time: 20 minutes to install and register · Cost: Free to install. Usage varies.
Tip: WhatsApp is non-negotiable for living in Jordan — every Jordanian uses it for personal and professional communication. Careem also offers package delivery (Careem Box) and food delivery (Careem Food). eFAWATEERcom lets you pay all utility bills without visiting offices — a major time saver. Waze has the best real-time traffic data for Amman.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 20–30 minutes to register and set up account · Cost: Free
Documents needed:
- ✓ Iqama number or national number
- ✓ Jordanian phone number (for OTP verification)
Tip: The portal is primarily in Arabic — use the Chrome browser's translation feature for English. Key linked portals: ISTD (istd.gov.jo), SSC (ssc.gov.jo), MOL (mol.gov.jo for work permits), DVLD (dvld.gov.jo for driving/vehicle). The premium guide provides a walkthrough of each key portal, how to access your digital records, and which services can be completed fully online vs in-person.
Local institution: Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship (MODEE)
Time: 1–2 weeks for initial research · Cost: Free to research. Registration fees: JD 200–500 at most schools.
Tip: Top choices: American Community School Amman (ACS, Abdoun — IB/AP), Amman Baccalaureate School (IB), British International Academy (IGCSE), French School (Lycée français), German School. Kings Academy (boarding, IB, Madaba) is prestigious. Consider curriculum continuity with your home country system when choosing.
Time: 1 hour to set up budget · Cost: Free
Tip: Use Wise or Revolut for tracking multi-currency spending. Jordan is predominantly cash-based for small transactions — budget JD 50–100 in cash weekly. Food costs are lower than Western Europe: local restaurants JD 3–8/meal; supermarket grocery run JD 40–80/week. International restaurants and bars are significantly more expensive.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 30 minutes to prepare documents. 6–18 months processing after submission. · Cost: Free to apply
Documents needed:
- ✓ SSC contribution statement (request from SSC before departure)
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Proof of departure
- ✓ Foreign bank account details (IBAN + SWIFT)
Tip: Countries with bilateral agreements (no refund but contributions credited to home pension): UK, Egypt, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and ~15 more. If your country is on the list, your Jordanian SSC years count toward your home pension. Request your SSC contribution statement in the month before you plan to leave — do not wait until the last day. The premium guide covers: bilateral agreement country list, refund application form, SSC portal, and recommended document collection timeline.
Time: 30 minutes to identify a clinic; first appointment usually same week · Cost: GP consultation: JD 20–60 at a private clinic
Documents needed:
- ✓ Health insurance card or policy number
Tip: All major private hospitals in Amman have English-speaking staff and international insurance billing. For dental: Jordanian dentistry is high quality and affordable (JD 20–60 per visit). Emergency: dial 911 for ambulance or go directly to any major hospital emergency department.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours to review your existing policy and identify any gaps · Cost: Dental insurance add-on: JD 50–150/year. Budget separately if not insured: JD 100–500/year for average dental needs.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Existing health insurance policy
- ✓ Dental records (if ongoing treatment)
Tip: Jordanian dentistry is genuinely high quality — dental tourism is growing. Confirm your insurer has a dental network in Amman before your first appointment. Keep receipts for all dental and optical expenses for potential tax deductibility under the income tax annual deductions.
Time: 1–3 days for internet installation. Electricity and water: same day if transferring existing account. · Cost: No connection fee if in landlord's name. Internet: JD 15–35/month.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Iqama or passport
- ✓ Rental contract
- ✓ Meter numbers from landlord
Tip: Most Amman apartments have utilities in the landlord's name — you pay the landlord who pays the bills. If setting up independently: Zain Home offers 50–200 Mbit fibre with no fixed contract period. Download the eFAWATEERcom app to pay utility bills digitally without visiting offices.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 3–6 months for full purchase process · Cost: Legal fees: JD 500–1,500. Transfer tax: 4% of property value. Registration fee: 0.3%.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Iqama
- ✓ Proof of funds
- ✓ Title deed (Kushan) verification by DLS
Tip: Popular areas for investment: Abdoun, Sweifieh (Amman), Aqaba ASEZ (5% flat tax zone, freehold for foreigners). Dead Sea properties attractive for rental income. Always use a licensed Jordanian property lawyer for due diligence — title checks via DLS (dls.gov.jo) are essential. The premium guide covers the full buying process, investor residence requirements, and rental income tax implications.
Time: 1–2 hours review · Cost: Free to review and compare
Tip: Leading Jordanian insurers: Arab Life & Accidents, Jordan Insurance Company, AXA Jordan, Al-Nisr Al-Arabi. International expat insurers: Cigna Global, Allianz Care. Confirm all insurance documents are in English or get Arabic versions translated. Keep all policy numbers accessible in your phone.
Time: 2–4 hours for survival phrases; ongoing for conversational level · Cost: Free (apps). JD 20–50/hour for private tuition. USD 250–400/week at Qasid Institute.
Tip: Start with Duolingo Arabic (Modern Standard as foundation) and ArabicPod101 for listening. For Levantine Jordanian dialect: YouTube "Arabic with Sam" is excellent. Jordanians respond warmly to any Arabic effort — even basic phrases change interactions significantly. WhatsApp voice messages from Jordanian contacts are great listening practice.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: Enrolment: 1–3 days. Course duration: 8 weeks to full semester. · Cost: Qasid: USD 250–400/week (intensive). University of Jordan: JD 300–600 per 8-week session. Private tutors: JD 10–25/hour.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Iqama (for some enrolment processes)
- ✓ Placement test (most schools)
Tip: Qasid Arabic Institute attracts students from 50+ countries and is full immersion — the gold standard for serious learners. University of Jordan Language Centre is more structured and academic. For conversational Levantine Arabic specifically: Culture Road Arabic or Jordan Language Academy in Amman. The premium guide includes school comparisons, programme details, and scholarship options.
Local institution: Qasid Arabic Institute / University of Jordan Language Centre
Time: 1 hour reading · Cost: Free
Tip: Contact your embassy immediately if you believe your rights are being violated (passport confiscated, wages withheld, threatened with deportation for asserting rights). The Ministry of Labour has a complaints hotline: +962 6 5802666. International Labour Organisation (ILO) has Jordan programmes for migrant worker rights. Never sign a document in Arabic without getting it translated first.
Full task details are available in the Premium plan
Become a Supporter Time: 1–2 hours at a Notary Public (Katib al-Adl) · Cost: JD 50–150 for notarial will or power of attorney
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Iqama
- ✓ Property title deeds (Kushan)
- ✓ Bank account details
Tip: For non-Muslim expats: Jordanian courts may apply your home country's inheritance law for movable assets, but property requires Jordanian legal procedures. Inform a trusted person of the location of all Jordanian financial accounts and property documents (Kushan). The premium guide covers the full estate planning process for expats in Jordan including the Warasat (inheritance statement) process.
Local institution: Notary Public (Katib al-Adl) / Jordanian Bar Association
Time: 30–60 minutes for first appointment · Cost: Registration visit: JD 15–40. Annual vaccinations: JD 30–80.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Pet passport or vaccination booklet
- ✓ Microchip certificate
- ✓ Import permit (if recently arrived)
Tip: No mandatory pet registration tax in Jordan (unlike Germany's Hundesteuer). Microchip registration with your vet's database is sufficient. Pet insurance is not widely available in Jordan — budget for vet costs out of pocket. Keep your pet's vaccination record up to date for any future international travel from Jordan.
Time: 15–30 minutes online or by phone · Cost: Free
Documents needed:
- ✓ Passport
- ✓ Jordanian address
Tip: UK: Register Your Presence at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. USA: Step.state.gov (STEP programme). Australia: smartraveller.gov.au. Save your embassy's emergency number in your phone on the day you arrive.
Time: 1 hour reading · Cost: Free
Tip: Jordan's JOD is pegged to USD (1 JOD ≈ 1.41 USD) — all tax calculations are in JOD. The 16% GST (General Sales Tax) is included in most prices. If you have investment income, rental income, or income from multiple sources, you should file an annual return. Keep payslips and all income records throughout the tax year.
Time: 15 minutes to install and verify Careem/Uber apps · Cost: Careem: JD 2–8 per trip within Amman. Monthly Careem subscription: JD 15–25.
Documents needed:
- ✓ Credit/debit card for app funding
Tip: Careem is the dominant ride-hailing app in Jordan — better coverage and cheaper than Uber for most Amman routes. Download Waze for driving navigation — Google Maps data is less accurate in Jordan. Avoid rush hours (7:30–9:30am and 3–6pm) — Amman traffic can be severe.
Time: 30–60 minutes to review entitlements at ssc.gov.jo · Cost: Free
Documents needed:
- ✓ SSC registration number (from payslip)
- ✓ Beneficiary details (spouse/children's passport copies)
Tip: Log in to ssc.gov.jo to check your contribution record and benefit entitlements. Register your dependants as SSC beneficiaries — this is quick and ensures death/survivor benefits reach your family. The Himayah unemployment scheme requires registration within 4 weeks of job loss — do not delay.