Guide to Residency in Jordan
Summary: Learn how to obtain a residency visa in Jordan. Expats, Retirees and others who have navigated the process offer advice and guidance for newcomers in Jordan.
Obtaining a residency visa in Jordan is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Jordan gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.
- Understand the Types of Residency Permits
- Temporary Residency: Valid for one year and renewable.
- Permanent Residency: Valid for five years and renewable.
- Investor Residency: Granted to investors who meet certain criteria.
- Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Passport-sized photographs (specifications may vary).
- Completed residency application form (available at local police stations or online at the Public Security Directorate website).
- Medical certificate (obtained from approved health centers).
- Background check report from your home country (may need to be translated into Arabic).
- Apply for a Tax Number
- Visit the nearest Income and Sales Tax Department office.
- Submit the required documents:
- Completed tax number application form.
- Copy of your passport.
- Copy of your visa.
- More information can be found on the Income and Sales Tax Department website.
- Open a Bank Account
- Choose a bank that suits your needs (e.g., Arab Bank, Jordan Ahli Bank).
- Visit the bank branch with the required documents:
- Passport and copies.
- Tax number certificate.
- Initial deposit (varies by bank).
- Initiate the Residency Application Process
- Visit the local police station or the Public Security Directorate.
- Submit the required documents (see 'Gather Required Documents' above).
- Pay the residency permit fee (cost varies by permit type).
- Undergo Medical Testing
- Visit an approved health center for medical examination.
- Tests typically include blood tests and a general physical examination.
- Complete the Security Check
- The Public Security Directorate will conduct a background check.
- This process may take several weeks to several months.
- Collect Your Residency Permit
- Once approved, you will be notified to collect your residency permit.
- Visit the local police station or the Public Security Directorate to pick up your permit.
- Renew Your Residency Permit
- Before the expiry of your permit, begin the renewal process.
- Follow similar steps as the initial application, including updating any required documents.
Important Notes
The process and requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and changes in regulations. It is advisable to consult with the Jordanian Embassy in your home country or the Public Security Directorate in Jordan for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Jordan?
"To apply for a visa to Jordan, travelers must submit a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photograph. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the visa will be issued and must be presented upon arrival in Jordan. To apply for residency in Jordan, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed residency application form, and a passport-sized photograph. Additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of the residency. Once the application is approved, the residency permit will be issued and must be presented upon arrival in Jordan," commented one member living in Jordan.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Jordan Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Jordan
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Jordan
- Best Places to Live in Jordan
- Guide to Real Estate in Jordan
- Pros & Cons of Living in Jordan
- Cost of Living in Jordan
- How to Enroll in the Public Healthcare System in Jordan
- 10 Best Places for Families to Live in Jordan
- Getting a Driver's License in Jordan
- 15 Best Places to Live in Jordan
- Pros and Cons of Living in Jordan 2026


