I’m a native Arabic speaker, and I’ve got plenty of tips to help you make your move to Jordan a little bit easier. Let me share with you how to start this journey and some things you should know before relocate to Jordan.

How to Move to Jordan?

Ahlen wa sahlen (أهلاً وسهلاً) — welcome! Moving to Jordan from the USA, UK or any other country will be easy say with our guidance.

1. Obtain Your Jordanian Visa 

To relocate to Jordan, you need to apply for a visa at the Jordanian consulate. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months with one blank page. It’s simple, but don’t forget it! For a work visa, you’ll also need a contract or letter from your Jordanian employer.

When you arrive, your work contract will be for only one year, and every year, they review it. It’s normal here. To get your work permit, you’ll need a few things:

• An application form
• Two passport photos
• Your current entry visa
• A letter from your health insurance
• Address proof (your home in Jordan)
• Bank statements
• A reference from your company
  Prepare these documents ahead of time to make things easier once you’re here.

2. Choose What’s Best Jordanian Residency Option for You

Jordan offers different residency options, and knowing which one is right for you can help a lot. There’s temporary residency if you plan to stay for one year, like for work or study. It’s renewable, so don’t worry about the timing too much.

If you’re planning to stay longer, maybe you’ll go for permanent residency after a few years. It’s for people who settle here and don’t want to apply for a visa every time. You can live and work without needing a work permit. For investors and retirees, Jordan has special residency programs that might interest you.

For example, investor residency lets you and your family live and work here if you start a business. Retiree residency is for people over 55 years old with an income of 2,500 JOD per month (around $3,500). They must have health insurance too. So, if you fit this, consider it an option.

3. Apply for Your Jordanian Residency

Applying for Jordanian residency can be a little long, but it’s okay, you’ll manage. You need to go to the Department of Civil Status and Passports (دائرة الأحوال المدنية والجوازات) here in Jordan. The key documents you’ll need are:

• Your passport
• A medical certificate
• A criminal record certificate (showing no problems)
• Proof of income
• Proof of accommodation

It can take a few months for approval, so be patient. They may ask you for an interview, but don’t worry—it’s just routine. 

Once you have your residency, you’ll need to register at the local police station within two weeks of arriving. They give you a card, and you should carry it with you all the time.

4. Seek out residence in Jordan

When you are searching for an apartment, knowing basic Arabic will really help. Most landlords and locals prefer to speak in Arabic, and even if they know some English, they appreciate it when you try to communicate in their language. For example, when you see a sign that says “للإيجار” (lil’ijār), it means “for rent.” You can say, “كم الإيجار الشهري؟” (Kam al-ijār al-shahri?) which means “How much is the monthly rent?”.

* Excerpted from Kalimah’s Online Arabic Course Curriculum

Always negotiate the rent. In Jordan, it is very common to negotiate the price of rent. If the landlord says it’s 500 JD per month, you can try asking for a lower price. For example, you could say, “هل يمكن أن تخفض السعر قليلاً؟” (Hal yumkin an tukhfid as-si’r qalīlan?), which means “Can you lower the price a little?” Most landlords expect this and might give you a better deal, especially if you plan to stay for a longer time.

Before you sign a rental contract, always check if the previous tenant has paid the water and electricity bills. If not, you might have to pay their leftover bills. Ask the landlord to show you the most recent bills to avoid surprises later. For example, you can say, “هل دفعت الفواتير السابقة؟” (Hal dafa’t al-fawātīr as-sābiqah?), meaning “Have the previous bills been paid?”

It’s quite common in Jordan that landlords ask for 6 to 12 months of rent in advance, especially if you are a foreigner. But be careful before you agree. You can ask to pay rent every 3 months or even monthly, depending on your agreement. 

The area you choose in Amman can really affect your lifestyle. If you prefer a quiet, family-friendly environment, consider neighborhoods like Abdoun or Dabouq. But if you are a student or enjoy a lively atmosphere, Webdeh or Jabal Amman might be better for you. Keep in mind that places in the West are more expensive, while Eastern areas are more affordable but might not offer the same services or safety.

5. Learn Basic Arabic Before You Relocate to Jordan

Speaking some basic Arabic will help you so much when you arrive in Jordan. Even if many people speak English here, you’ll feel more connected if you can greet someone in Arabic or ask for directions. Plus, simple things like ordering food or talking to your neighbors will be easier.

For example, imagine you’re on a plane to Jordan and the flight attendant asks you what you’d like to eat. Here is an excerption from Kalimah Center’s Arabic curriculum to learn how to have a conversation like this:

• المضيفة: ماذا تطلبين من الطعام؟ (al-muḍīfa: māḏā taṭlubīna min al-ṭa’ām?) Flight attendant: What would you like to eat?
• المسافرة: بعض السمك والأرز من فضلك. (al-musāfira: ba’ḍ al-samak wa al-aruz min faḍlik.) Passenger: Some fish and rice, please.
• المضيفة: وماذا تطلبين من الشراب؟ (al-muḍīfa: wa māḏā taṭlubīna min al-sharāb?) Flight attendant: And what would you like to drink?
• المسافرة: ماءً من فضلك. (al-musāfira: māʼan min faḍlik.) Passenger: Water, please.

And so on… That’s what I recommend Kalimah Center. Kalimah Center will equip you with the vocabulary and cultural understanding to navigate everyday situations, making your transition to life in Jordan smoother and more enjoyable.

It’s the best online option for learning Arabic because the courses are structured perfectly for beginners. 

You’ll hear stories from students who say they felt confident speaking Arabic after just a few months. 

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Read also: How to move to Lebanon

Advantages of Living in Jordan

Jordan offers many advantages for people who live there. It is a safe and stable country with a rich history and culture. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the cost of living is relatively affordable.

1. Central Location of Jordan

Jordan is in the middle of the Middle East, and it’s easy to travel to other countries. You can visit places like Egypt, Turkey, or Dubai within a few hours of flight. For someone who likes to travel, Jordan is a great base.

2. Affordable Living in Jordan (Compared to other Middle Eastern countries)

If you compare with countries like UAE or Qatar, the cost of living in Jordan can be more affordable. Especially when it comes to food and transportation, you will find it’s cheaper than some other countries in the region.

3. Hospitality of Jordanians

People in Jordan are very kind and welcoming. If you are a foreigner, you will often hear “Ahlan wa sahlan” (أهلاً وسهلاً) – Welcome! People here like to help, and it’s common to be invited for coffee or even to someone’s house for lunch. You feel like part of the community very quickly.

4. Cultural Heritage in Jordan

Jordan has a rich history, and you can explore amazing sites like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. If you love history and nature, you will never be bored. There are also many cultural festivals that happen throughout the year.

Disadvantages of Living in Jordan

But Jordan also has its challenges. Here are some things to consider:

1. Bureaucracy

Paperwork can take a long time here. Whether it’s about getting a residency permit, renting an apartment, or opening a bank account, the process can be slow. It’s important to be patient and keep asking until things get done.

2. Economic Challenges

Jordan’s economy has been affected by the political situations in the region. Inflation is also increasing, and the prices of basic goods are going up. You will notice this especially with imported products, so it’s good to budget carefully.

3. Limited Job Opportunities

Unless you work in a specific industry like IT or teaching English, finding a job in Jordan can be difficult. Many locals also face unemployment, so it’s competitive. Speaking Arabic can give you an advantage, but not always.

Can I Live in Jordan Permanently?

Yes, living in Jordan permanently is possible, but it takes some steps. You will need to renew your residency every year, and if you stay for more than five years, you can apply for permanent residency. It helps if you are married to a Jordanian or have strong business ties here.

If you invest in property or start a business, this also makes the process easier. Keep in mind that government rules can change, so it’s good to stay updated. Be sure to know the laws, especially about owning property or transferring money, and always keep a local lawyer or consultant to help you with the paperwork.

Can I Move to Jordan with My Family?

Yes, you can move to Jordan with your family, but there are a few important things you should know before you come. First, if you plan to stay long-term, you will need to apply for a residency permit. For this, your employer will usually help you with the paperwork, but it’s important to have all your documents ready, like your marriage certificate and your children’s birth certificates. 

Also, you need to be aware that schools, especially international schools, can be expensive. So, if you have children, check the school fees and consider if you can afford them. Public schools are available, but most expats prefer private or international schools.

Another thing to think about is healthcare. Jordan has good hospitals and medical care, but health insurance is a must. Make sure your job provides health coverage or buy private insurance for your family. Some areas in Amman are more family-friendly, like Abdoun or Khalda, where you can find parks and activities for kids. It’s a good idea to rent an apartment in these areas, but keep in mind the rent might be higher than other places.

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Before you Arrive in Jordan, Consider Learning some Arabic with Kalimah Center.

Here’s what makes Kalimah Center special:

• Structured learning: Our courses are divided into clear levels, taking you from the alphabet to fluent conversations.
• Expert teachers: Our native Arabic speakers will guide you with patience and expertise.
• Interactive lessons: We use engaging materials and activities to make learning Arabic fun and effective.
• Focus on what you need: We’ll help you learn the essential Arabic phrases and vocabulary for everyday life in Jordan.

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Conclusion:

Moving to Jordan requires several practical steps to ensure a smooth transition. First, obtain a valid visa from the Jordanian consulate, ensuring your passport has at least six months of validity and one blank page. When seeking housing, knowing basic Arabic will greatly enhance your experience, as it helps in negotiations and communication with landlords.

Living in Jordan offers various advantages, such as affordability compared to neighboring countries, a welcoming community, and a rich cultural heritage with historical sites.If moving with a family, ensure you have the required residency permits and are aware of schooling options, which can be costly.

FAQs about How to Move to Jordan?