Verified Facts
To move to Jordan, you will need to research and understand the country's visa and residency options, cultural norms, and practical considerations, and then plan carefully to ensure a smooth relocation process.
Why People Move to Jordan
Jordan is a popular destination for expats, tourists, and entrepreneurs due to its unique blend of traditional and modern culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. The country's strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa makes it an attractive hub for business and travel. Many people move to Jordan for work, with the capital city Amman being a major center for industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare. The country's high standard of living, relatively low cost of living, and friendly locals also make it an appealing destination for retirees and digital nomads.
Expats in Jordan come from a diverse range of backgrounds and nationalities, with many hailing from the United States, Europe, and other Middle Eastern countries. The expat community in Jordan is known for being welcoming and inclusive, with many social clubs, organizations, and events catering to international residents. In terms of quality of life, Jordan offers a unique blend of traditional and modern amenities, with world-class restaurants, shopping malls, and entertainment venues situated alongside historic sites and natural wonders.
The country's relatively low cost of living, combined with its high standard of living, makes it an attractive destination for people looking to relocate. The cost of housing, food, and transportation in Jordan is generally lower than in many other countries in the region, while the quality of healthcare, education, and other services is relatively high. Overall, Jordan offers a great balance of culture, lifestyle, and practicality, making it a popular choice for people looking to move abroad.
Visa & Residency Options
| Visa Type | Duration | Requirements | Cost (USD) | Path to PR? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | 1-3 months | Valid passport, proof of onward travel | 50-100 | No |
| Work Visa | 1-2 years | Job offer, university degree, language proficiency | 500-1000 | Yes |
| Business/Investor | 1-5 years | Business plan, investment capital, language proficiency | 1000-5000 | Yes |
| Retirement | 1-5 years | Proof of income, health insurance, age 50+ | 500-1000 | No |
| Student | 1-4 years | University acceptance, proof of funds, language proficiency | 500-1000 | No |
| Digital Nomad | 1-2 years | Proof of income, health insurance, remote work contract | 500-1000 | No |
Relocation Checklist
- Research Jordan's visa and residency options to determine which one is best for you.
- Gather all necessary documents, including a valid passport, birth certificate, and university degree.
- Apply for a visa or residency permit through the Jordanian embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Book a flight to Jordan and arrange for accommodation, either temporary or permanent.
- Register with the local authorities and obtain a residency permit.
- Open a bank account in Jordan to receive payments and pay bills.
- Find a job or start a business, if applicable.
- Enroll in a health insurance plan to cover medical expenses.
- Learn some basic Arabic phrases to help you navigate everyday life.
- Join expat groups and social clubs to connect with other international residents.
- Explore your new surroundings and get familiar with local customs and culture.
- Consider hiring a relocation consultant to help with the transition.
Expat Communities
- Amman is home to a large and diverse expat community, with many social clubs and organizations catering to international residents.
- The city's expat scene is centered around neighborhoods such as Abdoun, Jabal Amman, and Shmeisani.
- Online groups such as Expats in Jordan and Jordan Expats provide a platform for connecting with other international residents and sharing advice and information.
- Social networks such as Facebook and LinkedIn have several groups and pages dedicated to expats in Jordan.
- Meetup.com has a range of groups for expats in Jordan, including language exchange, hiking, and cultural events.
Banking & Finances
- Opening a bank account in Jordan is relatively straightforward, with many banks offering services in English and other languages.
- Money transfers can be made through banks, currency exchange offices, or online services such as TransferWise.
- The Jordanian dinar is the local currency, although US dollars and other major currencies are widely accepted.
- Credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Jordan, although cash is still the preferred payment method.
- Taxes in Jordan are relatively low, with a top rate of 20% for individuals and 20% for corporations.
Challenges & Honest Advice
- Culture shock can be a significant challenge for expats in Jordan, particularly for those who are not familiar with Arabic culture.
- Bureaucracy can be slow and frustrating, particularly when dealing with government agencies and official paperwork.
- Language barriers can be a challenge, particularly outside of major cities such as Amman.
- The cost of living in Jordan can be higher than expected, particularly for housing and transportation.
- Traffic in Jordan can be chaotic, particularly in Amman, and driving can be a challenge for those who are not used to it.
- [CALLOUT] Be patient and flexible when dealing with the challenges of expat life in Jordan, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from locals or other expats.